Can I give my dog aspirin for fever?

Watching your dog listlessly lie on the couch, ears drooping and tail motionless, is enough to make any pet owner’s heart race—especially if you suspect a fever. It’s tempting to reach for the aspirin bottle in your medicine cabinet, the same one that eases your own aches. But here’s the thing: what works for humans rarely translates cleanly to our canine companions, and in some cases, it can do more harm than good.​

Aspirin belongs to a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which reduce inflammation and fever by blocking certain enzymes. For dogs, though, their bodies process these drugs differently. A dose that’s safe for a 150-pound human could be toxic to a 20-pound terrier, damaging their kidneys or stomach lining over time. Even if you adjust the dosage, every dog metabolizes medication uniquely—what’s harmless for one might trigger vomiting or lethargy in another. In places like the UK, where the Animal Welfare Act strictly regulates pet care, self-medicating with human drugs can even land owners in legal hot water if it harms their pet.​

Veterinarians often caution against over-the-counter aspirin for fever in dogs, not just because of dosage risks, but because fever itself is a symptom, not a disease. That elevated temperature could be your dog’s immune system fighting off an infection, from a minor ear issue to something more serious like parvovirus. Masking it with aspirin might make your dog seem better temporarily, but it could delay diagnosis of the root cause. In Germany, for example, where pet health is tightly monitored, vets regularly stress that “treating the fever without finding the source is like turning off a smoke alarm instead of putting out the fire.”​

If your dog is running a fever—check by feeling their ears or the pads of their feet, which often feel warmer than usual—focus on keeping them comfortable first. Offer fresh water to prevent dehydration, and let them rest in a cool, quiet spot. Avoid wrapping them in blankets, as that can trap heat. Then, call your vet. They can recommend safe, dog-specific medications like carprofen or meloxicam, which are formulated to reduce fever without the risks of human NSAIDs. In many U.S. states, laws require vets to examine a pet before prescribing these drugs, ensuring they’re the right fit for your dog’s age, weight, and overall health.​

At the end of the day, your dog’s fever is a sign they need care—not necessarily a pill from your medicine cabinet. Trusting your vet to guide you through it keeps your pet safe and aligns with the laws and best practices that protect animals across Europe and North America. After all, a quick call today could mean a wagging tail and a healthy pup tomorrow.