Can dogs eat tums and human antacids?
Do not give human antacids without veterinary advice. Pepto-Bismol contains an aspirin-like compound, and some antacids are xylitol-sweetened.
What to do
Call a vet. Check the label for xylitol; if it is there, treat it as an emergency.
Signs to watch for
- black stools (which may be the drug rather than blood)
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
What makes it harmful
Bismuth subsalicylate in Pepto-Bismol; xylitol in some chewables
Bismuth subsalicylate releases salicylate, which dogs metabolise slowly and which causes gastric ulceration. It is also radiopaque, so it obscures abdominal X-rays — a real problem if the vomiting turns out to be an obstruction. Chewable antacids are a common xylitol source.
Also check for
- xylitol
- salicylates
- aspirin
How confident is this
established
Well established in the veterinary literature and consistent across sources.
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 10th ed.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
Further reading
Check another food
Informational only, and not a substitute for veterinary advice. Individual dogs vary, and this page cannot account for your dog's age, size, health conditions or medication. If you are worried, phone a vet — that call is always the right call.