Can I give Aspirin to my dog?

The short answer: **Only under veterinary supervision — never routinely**

Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) can be prescribed to dogs for specific antiplatelet indications at carefully calculated low doses. However, it is not a good first-line analgesic for dogs and should never be used from your own medicine cabinet without veterinary direction. Modern dog-safe NSAIDs (carprofen, meloxicam, firocoxib) are safer, more effective, and specifically approved for canine use.

Why aspirin is problematic for dogs

Dogs metabolize aspirin more slowly than humans and have a narrower therapeutic window. Adverse effects include:

• Gastric ulceration and GI bleeding — common even at low doses
• Platelet inhibition — 7–10 days of reduced clotting after a single dose
• Acute kidney injury — especially with dehydration
• Salicylism at higher doses: hyperthermia, seizures, acid-base disturbances

Dosing (when used at all, by veterinary prescription)

• Antiplatelet dose (for cardiovascular indications): 0.5–2 mg/kg PO once daily
• Anti-inflammatory dose: 10–25 mg/kg PO every 12 hours — rarely recommended given better alternatives

Low-dose aspirin may be prescribed in specific scenarios:

• Protein-losing nephropathy with thromboembolic risk
• Immune-mediated thrombocytopenia management
• Adjunct in certain cardiac conditions (e.g., hypertrophic cardiomyopathy)

Never give without vet guidance when

• Your dog takes other NSAIDs or corticosteroids
• History of GI ulcers, bleeding disorders, or surgery scheduled