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My dog ate Vicks DayQuil. Is it toxic and what should I do next?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | unneutered | 9 months and 5 days old

What happens if your dog ate the liquid of vicks day quil cold and flu orange capsule

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on September 14th, 2016

Although the amount your dog has ingested is a lot more than the recommended amounts for dogs, it should not cause toxicity if your dog is over 5 kg. If he is under 5, he could be in danger and it would be a god idea to take him to the vet right away to get an injection to induce vomiting.

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17Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on

    In a tiny dog like a Chihuahua, this is definitely a concern. There are three main ingredients in Vicks DayQuil - acetaminophen, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine. The acetaminophen can cause liver problems in small dogs depending on how much of the liquid he actually ingested, and phenylephrine can cause cardiac arrhythmias and blood pressure issues. I would recommend taking Blizzard to a vet right away - if he just ate it recently, your vet may be able to induce vomiting and give activated charcoal to help limit how much he absorbs.

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    7Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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