Is Imodium Safe for Dogs?

Imodium is an excellent ally in our fight against diarrhea. It is one of the most popular things humans take when they have stomach problems. Most dog owners know that our furry friends have a sensitive stomach, and many things can upset it. Diarrhea is a common thing amongst dogs, and you probably wondered how you could help your dog get over it. Many of us have over-the-counter Imodium in our medicine cabinet, and you probably wondered, “Can I give Imodium to my dog?”

The shortest possible answer to that question is - yes. Like with any other medication you could give your dog, there are some things you should know before you decide to treat your dog. You should know when it is OK to give your dog Imodium, and more importantly, when it’s not.

What is Imodium?

Imodium is a brand name, and the exact ingredient’s name is loperamide. It is a popular antidiarrheal that slows down the intestines and allows them to absorb electrolytes and water from food. It is an opioid, and opioids have a well-deserved reputation for causing constipation in dogs and humans. If your dog has diarrhea, slowing down bowel movement is a great thing.

If you have a dog that suffers from allergies, check out this article - Allergy Medicine for Dogs.

Is it safe for dogs?

Generally, Imodium is safe for dogs, but before you decide to give it to your dog, make sure you talked to your vet and asked them for advice. Make sure you follow the dosages your vet tells you, and make sure you don’t overdo it. Imodium is a popular medication for dogs that have diarrhea, but it is also used for treating other health issues. Some of these issues include:

Malabsorption
Irritable bowel syndrome
Acute colitis

dog pooping

Can Imodium be bad for dogs?

Like any other drug, there are some cases when your dog shouldn’t take Imodium as a treatment. In these cases, it can cause more harm than good, so make sure you are positive your dog is not in one of those situations. Your dog should not take it if;

They have liver or kidney problems
They have diarrhea caused by an infection
They have breathing problems
They have Addison’s disease
They have a head injury
They have hypothyroidism
They are pregnant or nursing
They are very young or very old

Imodium and herding breeds

You should avoid giving Imodium to your dog if they are a part of the herding breed family. Herding breeds can have a mutation of the ABCB1-1Δ (MDR1) gene, which reduces their body’s ability to break down and reap some drugs’ benefits. This is the case with Imodium, and they should avoid it at all costs. Vets even have a saying - White feet = Don’t Treat! There are many herding breeds, and they include;

Border Collies
Scottish Collie
Shetland Sheepdog
Australian Shepherd
Belgian Sheepdog
German Shepherd

These are not all herding breeds, and before you decide to give your dog Imodium, consult your vet and ask if this is a safe option for your dog.

There is a popular alternative to Imodium that is safe for dogs. Check out this article for more information - Pepto-Bismol For Dogs.

Imodium dosage

When giving your dog any kind of drug, you must stick to the recommended dosages. Make sure you measure precisely and don’t go over the recommended dosages; it won’t have a better effect or help your dog faster. You are only risking overdosing your dog.

There are different Imodium forms, and it comes in liquid, chewable tablets, and Multi-Symptom Relief tablets. There are different dosages for each form. Here is a helpful guide, but make sure you ask your vet for guidance first.

Liquid

Liquid Imodium contains about 0.2mg/mL, so it is a good choice for smaller dogs. Veterinary Place recommends 0.3 - 0.6 mL per pound of body weight. That means that a 10-pound dog can get between 3 - 6 mL twice a day, every 12 hours. You can pour it over their food.

Chewable tablets

Chewable tablets are a better choice for larger dogs, and they are easier to measure for larger dogs. They come in 2 mg size, and dogs between 25 and 50 pounds can get one tablet 2 or 3 times a day. It would be best to ask your vet for the exact dosage.

Multi-Symptom Relief tablets

Multi-Symptom Relief tablets contain another active ingredient called simethicone, which is also safe for dogs. It is recommended you give your 25-50-pound dog one pill.

Do you know how to safely help your dog deal with pain? Check out this article - Tramadol for Dogs.

Imodium side effects

Every medication has potential side-effects, and Imodium is no different. It is impossible to know how your dog will react to it; the side-effects will manifest only after you have given your dog Imodium. Keep in mind that this medication should not be given more than 5 days in a row. If you notice your dog is not getting better after two days, call your vet and describe the situation. Some common side-effects are: