Is Digoxin (Lanoxin) Safe for Dogs?
Why it’s a problem
Digoxin acts on the electrical system of the heart, and amounts only slightly above what the body tolerates can trigger life-threatening arrhythmias. Veterinarians do prescribe it for some heart conditions, but only with careful blood-level monitoring. A dog that eats tablets not meant for it can develop poisoning with little warning.
How to keep your pet safe
Keep the bottle in a closed cabinet and count tablets if someone in the home takes it. Never give your own heart medication to a dog, even one with a diagnosed murmur — species, dose, and formulation all differ. Ask your vet what to do if a tablet is dropped on the floor.
Warning signs to watch for
Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy, weakness, wobbliness, slow or irregular heartbeat, dilated pupils, collapse.
When to call the vet
Call a vet or pet poison hotline immediately after any ingestion outside a prescribed dose. Treatment involves ECG monitoring and, in severe cases, antidote therapy at specialized hospitals. Do not wait for symptoms, and do not give any other medications.
Common questions
My dog has a heart murmur — can he take my digoxin?
No. Digoxin dosing in dogs requires veterinary blood-level monitoring, and human tablets do not match canine needs. Ask your vet about your dog’s own cardiac treatment plan.
What does digoxin poisoning look like in dogs?
Typically vomiting, drooling, profound lethargy, and a slow or irregular heartbeat that can progress to collapse. Call a vet or pet poison hotline at the first suspicion, before these appear.
More medications hazards for dogs
This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate or touched something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. In the US: Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661, ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 (fees may apply).