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My dog has tooth pain. What can I give him for relief at home?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Bichon Frise | Male | unneutered | 25 lbs

Our dog Rusty is having some tooth pain, he's already lost most of his teeth due to us not knowing dogs needed dental health care too. But today is the first time he's pawing at his mouth, he isn't very vocal and moves around but he's sleeping and shaking a little. Google only wants to tell me what not to do, and I just want to know if there's a way to relieve him until we can get him in tomorrow.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on August 16th, 2019

Poor Rusty! Unfortunately, there really isn't much you can do about this at home - there are no over-the-counter human pain medications that are safe for use in dogs, so your best option is to give him soft food until you're able to get him in to see the vet. He/she can take a closer look at his mouth, and can get him started on pain meds and antibiotics as well as scheduling a dental procedure to extract the painful tooth.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on October 17th, 2018
Psychological stress can make pain worse, and going to the vet can be stressful for a dog. You are correct that Chunk needs dental surgery, and while at home, I would feed him canned dog food, or soak his dry food in gently warmed low sodium beef or chicken broth to make it softer. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. The only safe pain medications for dogs are available by prescription from the vet, and if you feel he is in pain, you can talk to your vet about prescribing some for him. Best of luck, I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on July 5th, 2017
If you are unable to have a dental performed on your dog you should talk to your vet about putting him on antibiotics for the mouth infection and a nonsteroidal antiinflamatory drug that will help with the pain. You can also feed him wet/canned food do it will be easier for him to eat.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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