6 Pet-Safe OTC Medications to Keep on Hand for Your Dog

We humans often keep over-the-counter (OTC) products on hand for minor issues like a stomachache or pain. But what about your dog? Should you keep OTC medications on hand for your pup?

Yes, it can be helpful to keep pet-safe OTC products at home for your dog. Read on to learn which medications to stock up on and which OTC medications you should never give to dogs.

OTC medications for dogs to keep at home

You can keep several OTC medications on hand to help your dog with minor problems. But before giving any OTC medication to your dog, talk to their veterinarian. It’s important to give your dog the correct dosage based on their weight. Otherwise, OTC medications can harm your dog. 

1. Benadryl

Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is an antihistamine that can help if your dog has an allergic reaction. Dogs can have an allergic reaction to things like:

• Bee stings

• Bugbites

• Medications

• Vaccines

Benadryl is just one type of pet-safe OTC antihistamine. Cetirizine (Zyrtec) or loratadine (Claritin) can also be safely given to dogs at the right dosage. For any of these medications, ask your veterinarian how much to give your pup.

2. Pepcid or Prilosec

Famotidine (Pepcid) or omeprazole (Prilosec) can help dogs when they have a minor upset stomach. This can include acid reflux and vomiting.

Ask your veterinarian what dosage of Pepcid or Prilosec is right for your dog. Giving your pup too much of these medications can lead to health problems.

3. Chlorhexidine

Chlorhexidine is an antiseptic that can help clean hot spots, tick bites, and minor infections. Chlorhexidine comes as a liquid solution, wipes, or a shampoo, and it’s available at pet and human stores.

EXPERT PICKS: WHAT TO READ NEXT

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• Pet poison hotlines: If you think your dog or cat ate something poisonous, call a pet poison hotline for advice on what to do next.

• Human medicines for pets: Your pet can take some of the same medications as humans. Here’s how to fill these prescriptions for your pet.

Look for a product that contains at least a 2% concentration of chlorhexidine. Follow the directions on the product’s packaging when using it on your dog.

4. Neosporin

Neosporin (bacitracin / neomycin / polymyxin B) is an antibiotic ointment that can be applied to minor wounds on both humans and dogs. It’s an ointment that you apply to the skin. Usually, it’s applied 1 to 3 times a day for a few days.

Before using Neosporin on your dog, ask your veterinarian for directions. Not all dogs should be treated with Neosporin. And if your dog’s wound doesn’t get better within 2 or 3 days, make an appointment with your veterinarian.

5. Artificial tears

At times, dogs can get something irritating in their eyes. Keeping artificial tears at home will help you clean dirt and irritants out of your pup’s eyes. Most artificial tear products that can be used in dogs contain 0.1% to 1.4% polyvinyl alcohol. Look for eye drops that are preservative-free.

Ask your veterinarian for guidance on how to give your dog these eye drops. If your dog has frequent eye irritation, they should also get checked out. Eye irritation and dry eyes can be a sign of eye conditions that need prescription treatments.

6. Hydrocortisone cream

Hydrocortisone cream may help relieve itching and redness in dogs. But talk to your veterinarian before using it, since it’s not the right solution for all dogs. It can prevent your dog’s wounds from healing. Your pup may also try to lick off the cream, which isn’t ideal.

Hydrocortisone cream should not be used on your dog more than once or twice a day. And it shouldn’t be used long term.

Other OTC pet products and tools to have at home

Beyond medications, other OTC pet products and tools can help keep your pet happy year-round. Consider stocking your home with these additional OTC dog products:

• Dog shampoo: Most dogs need to be washed sometimes. Keep a dog-specific shampoo on hand for bath time.

• Dog toothpaste and toothbrush: If your dog will let you brush their teeth at home, keep a dog toothpaste and toothbrush at home. Never use human toothpaste on a dog.

• Tweezers or tick-removal tool: Dogs who spend time outside may bring home a tick on occasion. Use a tick-removal tool or tweezers to safely remove the tick from your dog.

• Brush for grooming: Dogs will benefit from having their fur brushed regularly. Buy a brush made specifically for dogs to keep their coats healthy.

• Flea-control products: If your dog brings home fleas, you’ll want pet-safe cleaning products to remove them from your home. Along with flea-prevention medications, this helps permanently get rid of these pests.

OTC medications that are unsafe for dogs

Not all human OTC medications are safe for dogs. In fact, some are very toxic and can seriously harm your pup.

Keep the following medications away from your dog:

• Aspirin: In rare cases aspirin can be safe for dogs, but it’s best not to give this to them. If your dog needs pain relief, there are usually more effective options.

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Tylenol can cause liver failure and death in dogs.

• Ibuprofen: Ibuprofen, including the brand-name Advil, leads to digestive upset and ulcers in dogs.

• Decongestants: Decongestants, such as Sudafed, are toxic to dogs. Dogs who consume a decongestant can have seizures.

If you think your dog ate something toxic, call your veterinarian, take your dog to an emergency clinic, or call a pet poison hotline right away.

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Written by:

Renée Fabian, MA

Renée Fabian is the senior pet health editor at GoodRx. She’s worked for nearly 10 years as a journalist and editor across a wide range of health and well-being topics.

Reviewed by:

Ghanasyam Bey, DVM

Ghanasyam Bey, DVM, is from Cleveland, Ohio, and attended Princeton University for undergraduate studies. After a year of biology research at Duke University, he attended Ohio State College of Veterinary Medicine.

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