Pepto Bismol (Bismuth Subsalicylate) Dosage for Dogs

Antidiarrheal / Gastroprotectant ⏱ Onset: 30-60 minutes ⏳ Duration: 6-8 hours

This dosage information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet. Dosages may vary based on your pet's health conditions, other medications, and individual factors.

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Pepto Bismol Dosage Chart for Dogs by Weight

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Weight	Low Dose	Standard Dose	Max Dose	Frequency
5 lbs (2.3 kg)	0.5mg	1mg	2.5mg	every 6-8 hours
10 lbs (4.5 kg)	1mg	2.5mg	4.5mg	every 6-8 hours
15 lbs (6.8 kg)	1.5mg	3.5mg	7mg	every 6-8 hours
20 lbs (9.1 kg)	2.5mg	4.5mg	9mg	every 6-8 hours
25 lbs (11.3 kg)	3mg	5.5mg	11.5mg	every 6-8 hours
30 lbs (13.6 kg)	3.5mg	7mg	13.5mg	every 6-8 hours
40 lbs (18.1 kg)	4.5mg	9mg	18mg	every 6-8 hours
50 lbs (22.7 kg)	5.5mg	11.5mg	22.5mg	every 6-8 hours
60 lbs (27.2 kg)	7mg	13.5mg	27mg	every 6-8 hours
70 lbs (31.7 kg)	8mg	16mg	31.5mg	every 6-8 hours
80 lbs (36.3 kg)	9mg	18mg	36.5mg	every 6-8 hours
90 lbs (40.8 kg)	10mg	20.5mg	41mg	every 6-8 hours
100 lbs (45.4 kg)	11.5mg	22.5mg	45.5mg	every 6-8 hours
120 lbs (54.4 kg)	13.5mg	27mg	54.5mg	every 6-8 hours
150 lbs (68 kg)	17mg	34mg	68mg	every 6-8 hours

What is Pepto Bismol (Bismuth Subsalicylate) used for in dogs?

diarrhea nausea upset stomach gas

How to give Pepto Bismol to your dog

Pepto Bismol can be given as a liquid or chewable tablet. The liquid is easier to dose precisely for smaller dogs. Note that Pepto Bismol will turn your dog's stool dark or black — this is normal and not a cause for concern. Do not give to cats, as it contains salicylates which are toxic to them.

Available Forms

liquid, chewable tablet

Give with Food?

No — can be given without food

Side effects of Pepto Bismol in dogs

Common side effects

dark/black stools

darkened tongue

constipation

mild nausea

Serious side effects

salicylate toxicity
bloody stool
severe vomiting
tremors

When to call the vet

Call your vet immediately if your dog shows any of these signs:

Diarrhea persists beyond 48 hours
Blood in stool (bright red, not dark from medication)
Vomiting increases after giving
Dog becomes lethargic or refuses water
Signs of tremors or unsteadiness

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I give my dog Pepto Bismol?

Yes, Pepto Bismol is generally safe for dogs in recommended doses for short-term relief of diarrhea and upset stomach. However, it contains bismuth subsalicylate, so it should not be given to dogs on other NSAIDs or aspirin. Never give Pepto Bismol to cats.

How much Pepto Bismol can I give my dog?

The standard dose is about 1 teaspoon (5 ml) per 10 pounds of body weight, given every 6-8 hours. For tablets, the dose is approximately 8.5 mg per pound. Do not exceed 3 doses in 24 hours without veterinary guidance.

Why is my dog's poop black after Pepto Bismol?

Black stool is a completely normal side effect of bismuth subsalicylate. The bismuth reacts with sulfur in your dog's digestive tract, creating bismuth sulfide which is black. This is harmless and will resolve once you stop giving the medication.

Can Pepto Bismol hurt a dog?

At recommended doses, Pepto Bismol is generally safe for short-term use. However, excessive doses can cause salicylate toxicity, especially in small dogs. Never give it to cats, dogs with bleeding disorders, or dogs already taking NSAIDs or aspirin.