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My dog ate ibuprofen, has black stool, and won't eat. Is it serious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Miniature Schnauzer | Male | neutered | 6 years and 2 months old | 16 lbs

My mini schnauzer probably ingested some ibuprofen on Thursday night. He was checked out by a vet on Friday and his blood levels were fine. He hasn't eaten in the last few days and his last stool was black

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 19th, 2017

Poor Ben! Black stool can indicate that he has blood in his stool due to intestinal bleeding or ulcerations caused by the Ibuprofen. He probably had normal bloodwork on Friday because Ibuprofen (NSAID) can cause delayed problems (kidney, liver, GI ulcerations and GI bleeding) for up to 72 hrs after ingestion. With that said I would highly recommend taking Ben in to your local ER clinic right away for medical treatment. The vet will likely give him IV fluid therapy (to help preserve kidney function), repeat his bloodwork, give medications to treat GI ulcers, and GI coating medication (Sucralfate). I hope that you can get him in quickly for treatment because time is of the essence. I hope that your furry friend turns out ok. Best wishes!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Oh no, poor Ben! It sounds like he has blood in his stool from the upper intestinal tract. Ibuprofen can cause internal bleeding, bleeding disorders, and GI ulcers, and any of these could cause the blood to appear in his stool. It is concerning that he hasn't eating for the last few days, and this combined with his black stool, he needs to see a vet immediately. Too much ibuprofen can cause kidney and liver damage as well as other effects, and he need blood tests as well as treatment for his bloody stool. I see you live in San Mateo, CA. The North Peninsula Veterinary Emergency Clinic is open 24/7, and I would take Ben into them for treatment. Good luck, I hope he ends up ok! http://sanmateoemergencyvet.com

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