Medically Reviewed By: Medsdog Team
Last Updated: August 2026
One of the most prescribed drugs to dogs is carprofen which is used to treat pain, inflammation, hip dysplasia, arthritis, and post-surgery recovery getting the carprofen dosage for dogs exactly right matters.
Too little dose won’t manage the pain & overdosing raises the risk of stomach ulcers, liver strain, or kidney damage.
This is why it is absolutely necessary to know how much Carprofen you can give to your furry friend, what is its functions and which tablet strength of pills you need to provide
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Quick Dosage Overview: The FDA-approved carprofen dosage for dogs is 2.2 mg/kg (1 mg/lb) by mouth (PO) every 12 hours, or 4.4 mg/kg (2 mg/lb) by mouth (PO)or subcutaneously (SC) every 24 hours.
Disclaimer: All information provided in this guide is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Carprofen Dosage Calculator for Dogs
Calculate the recommended Carprofen dose based on your dog’s weight and prescribed regimen.
Recommended Dose
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This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always confirm dosage with a licensed veterinarian before administering any medication.
Carprofen For Dogs Overview
- Carprofen (brand names Rimadyl, Novox, Vetprofen, Carprieve, Truprofen, Rovera) is an NSAID used for pain and inflammation in dogs.
- The FDA-labeled carprofen dosage for dogs is 4.4 mg/kg/day, given either once daily or split into two 2.2 mg/kg doses 12 hours apart.
- It comes in 25 mg, 75 mg, and 100 mg scored caplets/chewables, dosed in half-tablet increments.
- Never combine carprofen with another NSAID or a steroid this significantly raises the risk of GI bleeding.
- Contact your vet immediately if your dog shows vomiting with blood, black stools, yellowing gums, or sudden lethargy.
What Is Carprofen Used for in Dogs?
Carprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that should be given to dogs only under veterinary direction. Carprofen is FDA-approved for canines to treat:
- Pain and inflammation from osteoarthritis a condition affecting an estimated 1 in 5 adult dogs in the U.S., and the leading cause of chronic pain in dogs.
- Canines Suffering from hip dysplasia, arthritis
- Postoperative pain following soft tissue and orthopedic surgery
Vets also prescribe it off label for soft tissue injuries, tendon/ligament injuries, and chronic back pain.
What is the Safe Carprofen Dosage for Dogs?
The FDA-approved carprofen dosage for dogs is based on body weight and is generally used to relieve pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions.
Veterinarians prescribe Carprofen at a dosage of:
- 2.2 mg/kg (1 mg/lb) by mouth (PO) every 12 hours.
- 4.4 mg/kg (2 mg/lb) by mouth (PO) every 24 hours.
- 4.4 mg/kg (2 mg/lb) subcutaneously (SC) every 24 hours.
Example: A 20-kg (44-lb) dog would receive a total daily dose of 88 mg of carprofen. Depending on the prescribed schedule, this could be approximately 44 mg every 12 hours or 88 mg once daily.
Carprofen Dosage Chart for Dogs by Weight
| Dog's Weight (lb) | Dog's Weight (kg) | Twice-Daily Dose (per dose, every 12h) | Once-Daily Total Dose (per 24h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 lb | 2.3 kg | 5 mg | 10 mg |
| 10 lb | 4.5 kg | 10 mg | 20 mg |
| 15 lb | 6.8 kg | 15 mg | 30 mg |
| 20 lb | 9.1 kg | 20 mg | 40 mg |
| 25 lb | 11.3 kg | 25 mg | 50 mg |
| 30 lb | 13.6 kg | 30 mg | 60 mg |
| 35 lb | 15.9 kg | 35 mg | 70 mg |
| 40 lb | 18.1 kg | 40 mg | 80 mg |
| 45 lb | 20.4 kg | 45 mg | 90 mg |
| 50 lb | 22.7 kg | 50 mg | 100 mg |
| 55 lb | 24.9 kg | 55 mg | 110 mg |
| 60 lb | 27.2 kg | 60 mg | 120 mg |
| 65 lb | 29.5 kg | 65 mg | 130 mg |
| 70 lb | 31.8 kg | 70 mg | 140 mg |
| 75 lb | 34.0 kg | 75 mg | 150 mg |
| 80 lb | 36.3 kg | 80 mg | 160 mg |
| 85 lb | 38.6 kg | 85 mg | 170 mg |
| 90 lb | 40.8 kg | 90 mg | 180 mg |
| 95 lb | 43.1 kg | 95 mg | 190 mg |
| 100 lb | 45.4 kg | 100 mg | 200 mg |
Carprofen Tablet Strengths
| Strength | Typical Dog Weight (twice-daily dosing) |
|---|---|
| 25 mg | Small dogs, roughly 12–25 lb |
| 75 mg | Medium dogs, roughly 35–75 lb |
| 100 mg | Large dogs, roughly 50–100+ lb |
Carprofen Chewable Tablets 25 mg, 75 mg, and 100 mg Dosage Chart for Dogs
| Dog's Weight | Weight (kg) | Calculated Dose Once Daily (2 mg/lb) | Suggested Tablet Dose Once Daily | Calculated Dose Every 12 Hours (1 mg/lb) | Suggested Tablet Dose Every 12 Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 lb | 2.3 kg | 10 mg | ½ × 25 mg | 5 mg | 1/4 × 25 mg |
| 10 lb | 4.5 kg | 20 mg | 1 × 25 mg | 10 mg | ½ × 25 mg |
| 15 lb | 6.8 kg | 30 mg | 1 × 25 mg | 15 mg | ½ × 25 mg |
| 20 lb | 9.1 kg | 40 mg | 1½ × 25 mg | 20 mg | 1 × 25 mg |
| 25 lb | 11.3 kg | 50 mg | 2 × 25 mg | 25 mg | 1 × 25 mg |
| 30 lb | 13.6 kg | 60 mg | 2 × 25 mg | 30 mg | 1 × 25 mg |
| 35 lb | 15.9 kg | 70 mg | 1 × 75 mg | 35 mg | ½ × 75 mg |
| 40 lb | 18.1 kg | 80 mg | 1 × 75 mg | 40 mg | ½ × 75 mg |
| 45 lb | 20.4 kg | 90 mg | 1 × 100 mg | 45 mg | ½ × 100 mg |
| 50 lb | 22.7 kg | 100 mg | 1 × 100 mg | 50 mg | ½ × 100 mg |
| 55 lb | 24.9 kg | 110 mg | 1 × 100 mg | 55 mg | ½ × 100 mg |
| 60 lb | 27.2 kg | 120 mg | 1 × 100 mg + 1 × 25 mg | 60 mg | 1 × 25 mg + ½ × 75 mg |
| 65 lb | 29.5 kg | 130 mg | 1 × 100 mg + 1 × 25 mg | 65 mg | 1 × 25 mg + ½ × 75 mg |
| 70 lb | 31.8 kg | 140 mg | 2 × 75 mg | 70 mg | 1 × 75 mg |
| 75 lb | 34.0 kg | 150 mg | 2 × 75 mg | 75 mg | 1 × 75 mg |
| 80 lb | 36.3 kg | 160 mg | 2 × 75 mg | 80 mg | 1 × 75 mg |
| 85 lb | 38.6 kg | 170 mg | 1 × 100 mg + 1 × 75 mg | 85 mg | 1 × 100 mg |
| 90 lb | 40.8 kg | 180 mg | 1 × 100 mg + 1 × 75 mg | 90 mg | 1 × 100 mg |
| 95 lb | 43.1 kg | 190 mg | 2 × 100 mg | 95 mg | 1 × 100 mg |
| 100 lb | 45.4 kg | 200 mg | 2 × 100 mg | 100 mg | 1 × 100 mg |
For very small dogs, the available tablet strengths may not permit an accurate labeled dose. Do not improvise by cutting tablets into quarters or smaller pieces. A veterinarian may select a different formulation or compounded preparation.
Carprofen Compounded Oral Suspension 100 mg/mL Dosage Chart
| Dog's Weight | Weight (kg) | Dose Every 12 Hours | Volume Every 12 Hours | Dose Once Daily | Volume Once Daily |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 lb | 2.3 kg | 5 mg | 0.05 mL | 10 mg | 0.10 mL |
| 10 lb | 4.5 kg | 10 mg | 0.10 mL | 20 mg | 0.20 mL |
| 15 lb | 6.8 kg | 15 mg | 0.15 mL | 30 mg | 0.30 mL |
| 20 lb | 9.1 kg | 20 mg | 0.20 mL | 40 mg | 0.40 mL |
| 25 lb | 11.3 kg | 25 mg | 0.25 mL | 50 mg | 0.50 mL |
| 30 lb | 13.6 kg | 30 mg | 0.30 mL | 60 mg | 0.60 mL |
| 35 lb | 15.9 kg | 35 mg | 0.35 mL | 70 mg | 0.70 mL |
| 40 lb | 18.1 kg | 40 mg | 0.40 mL | 80 mg | 0.80 mL |
| 45 lb | 20.4 kg | 45 mg | 0.45 mL | 90 mg | 0.90 mL |
| 50 lb | 22.7 kg | 50 mg | 0.50 mL | 100 mg | 1.00 mL |
| 55 lb | 24.9 kg | 55 mg | 0.55 mL | 110 mg | 1.10 mL |
| 60 lb | 27.2 kg | 60 mg | 0.60 mL | 120 mg | 1.20 mL |
| 65 lb | 29.5 kg | 65 mg | 0.65 mL | 130 mg | 1.30 mL |
| 70 lb | 31.8 kg | 70 mg | 0.70 mL | 140 mg | 1.40 mL |
| 75 lb | 34.0 kg | 75 mg | 0.75 mL | 150 mg | 1.50 mL |
| 80 lb | 36.3 kg | 80 mg | 0.80 mL | 160 mg | 1.60 mL |
| 85 lb | 38.6 kg | 85 mg | 0.85 mL | 170 mg | 1.70 mL |
| 90 lb | 40.8 kg | 90 mg | 0.90 mL | 180 mg | 1.80 mL |
| 95 lb | 43.1 kg | 95 mg | 0.95 mL | 190 mg | 1.90 mL |
| 100 lb | 45.4 kg | 100 mg | 1.00 mL | 200 mg | 2.00 mL |
Note: Before administrating liquid formulation first confirm that the product doesn't contain any toxic ingredients such as Xylitol or other additives that can harm your furry friend. The actual concentration of the liquid suspension should always be verified on the pharmacy label before calculating the volume.
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Carprofen Injectable Solution 50 mg/mL Dosage Chart
| Dog's Weight | Weight (kg) | Dose Every 12 Hours | Volume Every 12 Hours | Dose Once Daily | Volume Once Daily |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 lb | 2.3 kg | 5 mg | 0.10 mL | 10 mg | 0.20 mL |
| 10 lb | 4.5 kg | 10 mg | 0.20 mL | 20 mg | 0.40 mL |
| 15 lb | 6.8 kg | 15 mg | 0.30 mL | 30 mg | 0.60 mL |
| 20 lb | 9.1 kg | 20 mg | 0.40 mL | 40 mg | 0.80 mL |
| 25 lb | 11.3 kg | 25 mg | 0.50 mL | 50 mg | 1.00 mL |
| 30 lb | 13.6 kg | 30 mg | 0.60 mL | 60 mg | 1.20 mL |
| 35 lb | 15.9 kg | 35 mg | 0.70 mL | 70 mg | 1.40 mL |
| 40 lb | 18.1 kg | 40 mg | 0.80 mL | 80 mg | 1.60 mL |
| 45 lb | 20.4 kg | 45 mg | 0.90 mL | 90 mg | 1.80 mL |
| 50 lb | 22.7 kg | 50 mg | 1.00 mL | 100 mg | 2.00 mL |
| 55 lb | 24.9 kg | 55 mg | 1.10 mL | 110 mg | 2.20 mL |
| 60 lb | 27.2 kg | 60 mg | 1.20 mL | 120 mg | 2.40 mL |
| 65 lb | 29.5 kg | 65 mg | 1.30 mL | 130 mg | 2.60 mL |
| 70 lb | 31.8 kg | 70 mg | 1.40 mL | 140 mg | 2.80 mL |
| 75 lb | 34.0 kg | 75 mg | 1.50 mL | 150 mg | 3.00 mL |
| 80 lb | 36.3 kg | 80 mg | 1.60 mL | 160 mg | 3.20 mL |
| 85 lb | 38.6 kg | 85 mg | 1.70 mL | 170 mg | 3.40 mL |
| 90 lb | 40.8 kg | 90 mg | 1.80 mL | 180 mg | 3.60 mL |
| 95 lb | 43.1 kg | 95 mg | 1.90 mL | 190 mg | 3.80 mL |
| 100 lb | 45.4 kg | 100 mg | 2.00 mL | 200 mg | 4.00 mL |
How Much Carprofen for a 20 lb, 40 lb, or 80 lb Dog?
- How much carprofen for a 20 lb dog? 20 mg per dose if given twice daily, or 40 mg total if given once daily.
- How much carprofen for a 40 lb dog? 40 mg per dose twice daily, or 80 mg total once daily.
- What's the carprofen dose for an 80 lb dog? 80 mg per dose twice daily, or 160 mg total once daily.
How Does Carprofen Work?
Carprofen belongs to the same drug class as ibuprofen and naproxen (propionic acid NSAIDs), but it's formulated specifically for dogs. It works by blocking cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which produce the prostaglandins responsible for pain, fever, and inflammation.
Carprofen is more selective for COX-2 (the "inflammation" enzyme) than COX-1 (which protects the stomach lining and kidneys) — this selectivity is part of why it tends to be better tolerated than older NSAIDs, though it doesn't eliminate the risk of GI or kidney side effects.
Carprofen is well absorbed orally (over 90% bioavailability), reaches peak blood levels in 1–3 hours, and has an average half-life of about 8 hours in dogs.
Carprofen Benefits for Canines
Dogs Carprofen is a recommended drug to treat pain in canines. Veterinarians normally recommend this medication to treat a number of diseases that cause pain and inflammation in dogs:
- Joint pain and osteoarthritis.
- Perioperative pain management.
- Hip dysplasia discomfort
- Soft tissue injuries
- Other inflammation diseases.
Carprofen has been well-reported in veterinary research to improve the mobility and quality of life in canines with chronic pain.
Numerous dog owners testify about a lot of activity and comfort that their puppies have attained with the help of their proper administration.
Side Effects
Is Carprofen safe for dogs? Although Carprofen for puppies is not harmful as a rule when prescribed and taken properly, as all drugs, it has side effects. The side effects are the most frequently occurring ones and they comprise:
- Nausea (vomiting, diarrhea, delight)
- Lethargy or depression
- Alteration in drinking or urinating patterns.
- Behavioral changes
- Skin reactions (red, scabs, or itching)
Side effects which are more serious yet less frequent could include:
- Gastrointestinal ulcers or ulcers of the stomach or intestines.
- Liver or kidney problems
- Bleeding disorders
- Seizures
In case you observe any kind of unusual symptoms following the administration of Carprofen, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Symptoms of Carprofen Overdose in Canines
Carprofen can also be accidentally overdosed when ingested by a dog in large quantities. The symptoms of overdose could consist of:
- Violent vomiting, and diarrhea (which may have blood in it).
- Severe listlessness or immoderation.
- Pale gums
- Excessive urination and thirst.
- Falling or ineptitude.
- Seizures
If you suspect your dog has eaten more than its prescribed amount, don't wait for symptoms. Call your vet, an emergency animal hospital, or a pet poison hotline immediately:
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
- Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661
Which Drugs Can Interact with Carprofen
Never give carprofen alongside:
- Other NSAIDs: (aspirin, meloxicam, deracoxib, etodolac) this combination sharply increases the risk of GI ulcers. If your dog is being switched between NSAIDs, or between an NSAID and a corticosteroid, your vet will typically recommend a washout period of 3–10 days to reduce interaction risk. This applies even when moving from carprofen to something like firocoxib or deramaxx for dogs, which are both NSAIDs in the same risk category.
- Corticosteroids combining carprofen with a steroid such as prednisone or dexamethasone significantly raises the chance of gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Anticoagulants (warfarin), ACE inhibitors (enalapril, benazepril), and certain antibiotics always disclose every medication and supplement your dog is taking before starting carprofen.
Always tell your vet about every medication your dog is on, including over the counter and herbal supplements separately dosed drugs like aspirin are a common accidental double-NSAID mistake owners make at home.
Carprofen vs. Other Pain Medications for Dogs
| Medication | Drug Class | Typical Use | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carprofen | NSAID (COX-2 selective) | Arthritis, post-surgical pain | Twice-daily or once-daily dosing |
| Meloxicam | NSAID | Chronic OA pain | Once-daily liquid or tablet |
| Firocoxib (Previcox) | NSAID (highly COX-2 selective) | Chronic OA pain | Once-daily dosing |
| Deramaxx | NSAID (COX-2 selective) | OA, post-op pain | Once-daily dosing |
| Grapiprant | EP4 receptor antagonist (non-NSAID) | Chronic OA pain | Different mechanism; may suit NSAID-sensitive dogs |
| Tramadol | Opioid-like analgesic | Add-on pain control | Not an anti-inflammatory; often paired with an NSAID |
Dogs That Should NOT Take Carprofen
Dogs With Liver Disease
Carprofen is hepatically metabolized. Dogs having high liver enzymes, hepatitis or liver insufficiency are likely to suffer deterioration of liver damage.
Dogs With Kidney Problems
NSAIDs lower the blood supply to the kidney. When administered to dogs with chronic kidney disease or lower kidney functioning, there is a great risk of kidney failure.
Dogs With Heart Disease
Carprofen for dogs may change the fluid balance and blood pressure rendering it unsafe in congestive heart failure and cardiac diseases patients.
Dogs with Gastrointestinal Problems.
Carprofen should not be used in case the dog has a history of:
- GI ulcers
- Chronic vomiting
- Bloody stool
- Severe diarrhea
- NSAIDs are capable of exacerbating preexisting GI issues.
Dogs Allergic to NSAIDs
In case the pooch has ever exhibited a negative response towards:
- Rimadyl
- Aspirin
- Meloxicam
- Deramaxx
- Previcox
Pregnant or Nursing Dogs
Carprofen has not been established to be safe in expecting and lactating dogs.
Very Old or Frail Dogs
The elderly dogs are more susceptible to liver, kidney and stomach side effects. Adjustments of dose or switching of medications can be required.
Dehydrated or Shocked Dogs
Damage of kidneys is a risk associated with low blood pressure and administration of NSAIDs such as Carprofen.
Dogs which have other NSAIDs or steroids.
- Aspirin
- Meloxicam
- Previcox
- Prednisone
- Prednisolone
- Dexamethasone
It may result in fatal GI bleeding.
Supporting Carprofen With Joint-Health Adjuncts
Research shows carprofen alone doesn't always provide complete pain relief for chronic osteoarthritis, which is why vets often recommend pairing it with joint-supportive supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids or a glucosamine and chondroitin joint supplement. One clinical study found dogs on an omega-3-supplemented diet were able to reduce their carprofen dose significantly faster than dogs on carprofen alone always run any addition past your vet first.
References
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration / Putney, Inc. Carprofen Caplets Prescribing Information, ANADA 200-498.
- Merck Veterinary Manual. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs in Animals.
- Sorah, E. "Carprofen for Dogs: Osteoarthritis and Pain Management." Today's Veterinary Practice, 2020.
- GoodRx Health. "Carprofen for Dogs: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects," reviewed by G. Bey, DVM.
- Mensching, D. et al. "Toxicology Brief: Managing Acute Carprofen Toxicosis in Dogs and Cats." DVM360.
