Is Naproxen (Aleve) Safe for Dogs?
Why it’s a problem
Dogs are far more sensitive to naproxen than humans, and the drug lingers in a dog’s body much longer than ibuprofen does. It damages the stomach and intestinal lining, causing ulcers and bleeding, and can cut blood flow to the kidneys. Even a single tablet has caused life-threatening poisoning in small dogs.
How to keep your pet safe
Never give naproxen or any human painkiller to a dog, and keep pill bottles zipped inside a bag or drawer — dogs chew through plastic bottles. If your dog has arthritis or pain, ask your vet about pet-approved anti-inflammatories such as carprofen or meloxicam given at a proper veterinary dose.
Warning signs to watch for
Vomiting (sometimes with blood), diarrhea, black tarry stool, drooling, belly pain, lethargy, loss of appetite; with larger ingestions: wobbliness, tremors, seizures, pale gums, little or no urine from kidney failure.
When to call the vet
Call your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline immediately, even if your dog seems normal at first. Do not induce vomiting unless a professional tells you to, and bring the pill bottle so the dose can be estimated.
Common questions
My dog ate one Aleve tablet — is that serious?
Yes. A single tablet can cause stomach ulcers in dogs of almost any size and is especially dangerous for small dogs. Call your vet or a pet poison hotline right away rather than waiting for symptoms.
How long does it take for naproxen poisoning to show in dogs?
Vomiting and loss of appetite often appear within hours, but kidney damage can take a day or more to become obvious. Early treatment with IV fluids and stomach protection greatly improves the outlook.
Can I give my dog half an Aleve for a limp?
No. Naproxen is one of the most dangerous human painkillers for dogs and should never be used at home. Ask your vet for a dog-safe pain reliever instead.
More medications hazards for dogs
This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate or touched something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. In the US: Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661, ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 (fees may apply).