Is Tums (Calcium carbonate) Safe for Dogs?
Why it’s conditional
Plain calcium carbonate has low toxicity, which is why one or two chewed tablets rarely cause serious harm in a dog. Larger amounts can cause constipation, stomach upset, and calcium imbalances, and dogs with kidney or heart disease are more vulnerable. Flavored varieties are attractive, so a bottle can be emptied quickly.
How to keep your pet safe
Keep antacid bottles out of reach, and ask your vet before giving any human stomach remedy. Recurrent stomach upset deserves a diagnosis, not home treatment.
Warning signs to watch for
Vomiting, constipation, drooling, belly discomfort; large ingestions may cause muscle weakness or unusual tiredness from calcium imbalance.
When to call the vet
Call your vet or a pet poison hotline with the number of tablets eaten, especially for a small dog or one with kidney or heart disease. Repeated vomiting always warrants an exam.
Common questions
My dog ate three Tums — should I worry?
A few plain calcium carbonate tablets usually cause little more than possible constipation in a healthy dog. Call your vet or a poison hotline for guidance, especially for a small dog.
Can I give my dog Tums for an upset stomach?
It is not a good habit, even though it is low in toxicity. Recurrent stomach upset means something is wrong that needs a diagnosis, and your vet can suggest a safer plan.
My dog ate a whole bottle of Tums — now what?
A large amount of calcium carbonate can cause constipation and calcium imbalance. Call your vet or a pet poison hotline with the bottle in hand and watch for vomiting or unusual weakness.
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).