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My dog has a sprained ankle, it's swollen. Can I give him pain meds?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

I think my dog has sprained his ankle. He was walking along some stones on the beach earlier & suddenly yelped then couldn't put his leg down. I initially thought he'd stood on a sharp stone. Checked his paw but could not see anything. He was then limping. Since then he's been in obvious pain & I've noticed a fair bit of swelling to his right ankle. Applied ice pack but still swollen & in pain. Can I give him anything for the pain? He has other health issues & will go to vets tomorrow.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Bette Isacoff

Answered By Bette Isacoff

Dog Trainer

Published on January 19th, 2017

Please do not give anything for pain unless it is specifically prescribed by your vet. The human pain relievers such as Tylenol, Motrin, Advil, Aleve, ibuprofen, etc. are all toxic to dogs. Just try to keep his movements to a minimum until he is checked by the vet.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Debi Matlack

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on November 7th, 2020

    Give the pain meds your veterinarian prescribed as directed and keep him confined to a crate or small room, going outside only on a leash just long enough to relieve himself, then back in the crate. DO NOT give him any human medications as these can be toxic to dogs, especially ibuprofen and Tylenol.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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