Dog Paracetamol Dosage Calculator
Check the paracetamol dose your vet has advised for your dog’s weight
Last updated: 8 October 2026
Only give your dog paracetamol if your vet has advised it. When a vet does, the usual dose is 10–15 mg per kg of body weight every 8–12 hours, for no more than 5 days.
For example, a 10 kg dog would usually have 100–150 mg per dose. Human tablets are hard to split accurately, so vets often prescribe a licensed veterinary product such as Pardale-V instead. See the dose chart by weight. If your dog has eaten paracetamol by accident, contact a vet now.
Important: Veterinary Consultation Required
This calculator is for informational purposes only. Never administer paracetamol to your dog without first consulting a qualified veterinarian. Incorrect dosing can be fatal. Always seek professional veterinary advice before giving any medication to your pet.
Calculate Dosage
Important Safety Information
- •Paracetamol should only be given to dogs under veterinary supervision
- •Do not give it for more than 5 days unless your vet tells you to
- •Never give human paracetamol products containing other ingredients (like ibuprofen or caffeine)
- •Paracetamol is toxic to cats - never give to felines
- •Watch for signs of toxicity: vomiting, lethargy, difficulty breathing, or brown gums
- •Store all medications safely away from pets
Paracetamol Dose Chart for Dogs by Weight
Amount per dose, given every 8–12 hours for no more than 5 days, based on 10–15 mg per kg. Only use this to check a dose your vet has advised.
| Dog’s weight | Dose per 8–12 hours |
|---|---|
| 5 kg (11 lb) | 50 – 75 mg |
| 10 kg (22 lb) | 100 – 150 mg |
| 15 kg (33 lb) | 150 – 225 mg |
| 20 kg (44 lb) | 200 – 300 mg |
| 25 kg (55 lb) | 250 – 375 mg |
| 30 kg (66 lb) | 300 – 450 mg |
| 40 kg (88 lb) | 400 – 600 mg |
General guidelines, not a prescription. Your vet may advise a different dose, for example for older dogs or dogs with liver or kidney problems.
If Your Dog Has Eaten Paracetamol
Contact your vet or an out-of-hours emergency vet straight away, even if your dog seems fine. Signs of poisoning can take hours to appear, and early treatment makes a real difference.
Tell the vet your dog’s weight, how much was eaten (check the packet for the tablet strength), and roughly when. Don’t try to make your dog sick unless a vet tells you to.
About Paracetamol for Dogs
Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) is a common pain reliever and fever reducer that can be used in dogs when prescribed by a veterinarian. While it can be effective for managing mild to moderate pain, it must be administered with extreme caution.
When is Paracetamol Prescribed for Dogs?
Veterinarians may prescribe paracetamol for dogs experiencing pain from conditions such as arthritis, post-surgical recovery, or minor injuries. It's typically used as part of a broader pain management plan and should never be the first choice without professional assessment.
Dosage Guidelines
When a vet advises paracetamol for a dog, the usual dose is 10–15 mg per kilogram of body weight every 8–12 hours, for no more than 5 days. This calculator uses that guideline, but your vet may adjust the dose based on your dog’s health, age and any other medicines. Vets often prescribe Pardale-V, a licensed veterinary product, rather than human tablets.
Risks and Side Effects
Paracetamol can cause serious side effects in dogs if given incorrectly. Overdosing can lead to liver damage, kidney failure, and damage to red blood cells. Symptoms of paracetamol toxicity include vomiting, drooling, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, brown or blue gums, and lethargy.
Safer Alternatives
There are veterinary-specific pain medications that may be safer and more effective for your dog. Options include carprofen, meloxicam, and other NSAIDs specifically formulated for dogs. Always consult your veterinarian to determine the most appropriate pain management strategy for your pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is paracetamol safe for dogs?
Paracetamol can be safe for dogs when prescribed by a veterinarian at the correct dosage. Never give human paracetamol to your dog without veterinary supervision, as incorrect dosing can be toxic.
What is the correct paracetamol dosage for dogs?
When a vet advises it, the usual dose is 10–15 mg per kilogram of body weight every 8–12 hours, for no more than 5 days. For example, a 10 kg dog would usually have 100–150 mg per dose. Never give paracetamol without checking with your vet first.
Can I give my dog human paracetamol?
Never give human paracetamol to your dog without consulting a veterinarian first. Human formulations may contain additional ingredients that are toxic to dogs, and incorrect dosing can be fatal.
Can I give my dog half a 500mg paracetamol?
Only if your vet has told you to. Half a 500mg tablet is 250 mg, which at 10–15 mg per kg matches a dog of roughly 17–25 kg. For a smaller dog it is too much. Human tablets are hard to split accurately, which is why vets often prescribe a licensed veterinary product such as Pardale-V instead.
What happens if a dog eats 500mg of paracetamol?
Treat it as an emergency and contact your vet or an out-of-hours emergency vet straight away, even if your dog seems well. 500 mg is more than three times the top single dose for a 10 kg dog. Paracetamol poisoning can damage the liver and red blood cells, and early treatment matters.
What should I do if my dog accidentally ingests paracetamol?
If your dog has ingested paracetamol without veterinary guidance, contact your veterinarian or emergency animal hospital immediately. Time is critical in treating paracetamol toxicity.
How long can my dog take paracetamol?
Usually no more than 5 days. Paracetamol is generally prescribed for short-term pain relief, and your vet will decide the exact length of the course. Never extend it beyond what your vet recommends.