Maybe. Under specific circumstances, your vet may prescribe your dog a short-term course of aspirin to treat pain. However, it is generally kept to a minimum or avoided altogether because of the risk of internal bleeding. There are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) developed specifically for dogs, which your vet can prescribe.
Do not attempt to give your dog aspirin, or any other medication, without your vet’s guidance. Up to half of pet poisonings are caused by medications meant for people. These drugs are tested on and intended for humans, not dogs or other pets. You should always keep medications out of reach of your dog, in sturdy containers.
Symptoms to Watch For
If your dog takes aspirin, seek veterinary care if they display the following symptoms:
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Seizures
- Bloody stool
For More Information
We’ve got tons of articles about which foods are safe or dangerous for your dog, from common snacks to fruits. You might also be interested in “Can I Give My Dog Tylenol?”