Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Can I give my dog Pepto Bismol for diarrhea or an upset stomach?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 9 months and 11 days old | 25 lbs

Can I give my dog pepto bismol for diarrhea?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on December 2nd, 2017

Here is a link that discusses pepto bismol use in dogs: https://www.petcoach.co/canigive/dog/pepto-bismol/ As long as the patient is acting fine otherwise, no blood in the diarrhea, and is not vomiting then I usually recommend fasting for 1 meal (do not withhold water), and then start feeding small amounts of boiled chicken and rice in place of their normal kibble. If the diarrhea doesn’t improve within a few days or if any other symptoms emerge then I would encourage you to have her evaluated by your veterinarian. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.

Vote icon

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on January 24th, 2017

    Pepto can be used in some dogs. You should discuss a dose with your veterinarian before giving it. In the meantime, for minor GI upset, you can withhold food for 24 hours allowing small amounts of water or unflavored PediaLyte. Resume feeding afterwards with a bland diet in small, frequent amounts until the upset resolves. If it does not resolve, see your vet for a full exam and diagnostics. A bland diet can be plain white rice mixed with one of the following: cottage cheese, cooked ground turkey, cooked/drained ground beef or boiled boneless/skinless chicken breasts.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 20th, 2018

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Lily. I do not recommend giving Pepto bismol to dogs. First, it is not very effective in controlling signs of GI upset. Secondly, it contains an aspirin like compound that can cause further GI upset. If she is otherwise healthy, it is generally safe to withhold food for 18-24 hours. This can sometimes relieve the symptoms by resting her gastrointestinal tract. Be sure to provide plenty of water though so that she does not become dehydrated. If she is acting lethargic, refusing to drink or develops blood in the vomit or diarrhea, then she will need to see her veterinarian. I hope this information helps!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on January 10th, 2017

    You shouldn't give any meds without the advice of your vet. Legally, we are unable to make recommendations, even for OTC meds, in the absence of a patient-veterinarian-client relationship and a physical exam. What you can do is withhold food for 24 hours. Allow small amounts of water or unflavored PediaLyte. Resume feeding a bland diet in small, frequent amounts until the stool is normal. Afterwards, transition to the regular diet. If the diarrhea doesn't stop, find a vet and make an appointment for an exam.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored