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What over-the-counter pain relief is safe for my dog's sore leg?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My dog got her leg stuck in the door, and now it's tender. It's not broken but seems sore. Is there an over the counter pain relief I can give her?

5 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on December 7th, 2019

Unfortunately no. Many human pain medications are toxic to dogs, and can be fatal if given. I recommend resting her for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take her out to toilet on a leash, and bring her right back in when she's done. If she still appears painful after this time, then I would take her into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. She may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on January 14th, 2019
I would not recommend giving Loki any over the counter pain medication. Motrin is toxic to dogs, and while Tylenol technically can be given to dogs it is not the best option. I would recommend restricting his activity for now and if he continues to limp you should see your vet for an exam. They can prescribe a safe pain medication. If Loki seems like he can't get comfortable tonight, or if you see any swelling around the leg you may want to see an emergency veterinarian.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on April 11th, 2019
Unfortunately there are no OTC pain medications you can give Lucy. Many are toxic to dogs, and can be fatal if given. I can give you some resources that may help you afford the x-ray and check up she needs. Best of luck.

http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_veterinary_care.html?credit=web
http://canada.creditcards.com/credit-card-news/pet-financing-options-1264/
http://lessonsfromaparalyzeddog.com/when-pet-owners-cant-afford-veterinary-bills/
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on February 22nd, 2017
There are no totally safe OTC medications you can give to Loki. For his safety and well-being, have him examined by your veterinarian to diagnose soft tissue injury or ,more seriously, fractures. After an exam, the vet can prescribe the appropriate medication for pain relief. Do not medicate him without the advice of your veterinarian.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Catherine Stecyk
Veterinarian
Published on May 4th, 2019
Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I'm sorry to hear that Eva injured her leg! Unfortunately, there are no safe human pain medications that can be given to dogs. Medications such as Advil, Aspirin or Tylenol can be fatally toxic to dogs, and should not be given. They can also interfere with medications that your veterinarian will want to prescribe when he/she sees Eva on Monday. The best thing you can do to help Eva in the meantime is restrict her activity. If she has a crate, I recommend keeping her in this during the day and night, except for taking her out on a leash to urinate/defecate outside 3-4 times per day. If you don't have a crate, keeping her restricted to one room in the house where she cannot run or jump on/off things will be the most helpful. If you feel that Eva is in too much pain - i.e. she is whining or crying constantly - she should be seen by an emergency veterinarian and you should not wait until Monday. I hope this is helpful!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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Dogs can experience pain from a variety of health conditions, including [osteoarthritis](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/arthritis-1/),[ dental disease](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/dental-disease/), [urinary tract infections](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/utis-in-dogs/) or traumatic injuries, among many others. While it is extremely difficult to see our four-legged friends in pain, there are no safe and effective over-the-counter medications for managing pain in dogs (or cats). Over the counter pain relievers for humans, such as ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin), acetaminophen (Tylenol) and naproxen (Aleve) are all toxic to animals. Aspirin should also not be given to dogs because it causes significant irritation and potential ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract, and it inhibits a dog’s ability to clot blood. If you think that your dog is in pain, your best bet is to take him to your veterinarian. After performing a [physical exam](https://www.petcoach.co/article/what-does-your-veterinarian-look-for-during-a-physical-exam/), your veterinarian will be able to prescribe safe and effective medication. Only give pain medication to the pet for which it was prescribed due to risks with drug interactions, improper doses or contraindications with certain medical conditions. ### Elanco and the diagonal bar logo are trademarks of Elanco or its affiliates. Galliprant is a registered trademark of Aratana Therapeutics, Inc.

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