Carprofen Dosage for a 10 lb Dog

The FDA-labeled dose for carprofen in dogs is approximately 2 mg per pound (4.4 mg/kg) total per day, given as a single dose or split into two doses 12 hours apart. For a 10 lb (4.5 kg) dog, this gives a range that a licensed vet will narrow down based on the indication, your dog's age, kidney/liver function, and any other medications. RexVet vets serve Florida, New York, and Virginia and can calculate the right dose for your specific dog in a $64.99 video visit.

Carprofen (carprofen) is widely used in dogs in the 10 lb range, but "safe" depends on the specific dog, not just the weight. Toy and small breeds metabolize drugs differently than large breeds — they're more susceptible to hypoglycemia, sedation, and dose-related side effects. The margin for dosing error is smaller. Pill-cutting or compounded liquid formulations are often needed because commercial tablets are too large to dose accurately. A licensed vet will check your dog's history, current medications, and any underlying conditions before prescribing.

The most common things to watch for are: Decreased appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea — call your vet same day; Black, tarry, or bloody stool (possible GI ulceration — urgent); Yellow gums or eyes (possible liver issue — urgent). If you see anything concerning, contact a vet. For toy dogs specifically: Toy and small breeds metabolize drugs differently than large breeds — they're more susceptible to hypoglycemia, sedation, and dose-related side effects.

If the veterinarian decides it is appropriate after a video visit, they can prescribe it where state rules allow.

RexVet’s veterinarians are licensed in all three states and take Carprofen refill requests where state rules allow for dogs already established on the medication. Refill visits are also $64.99. Prescriptions are filled through RexVet's in-house pharmacy (RexVetRx) or can be sent to your local pharmacy. When the veterinarian prescribes, same-day delivery is available in most ZIP codes in FL, NY, and VA.