Short answer: Only after talking to a vet or poison control. When indicated, 3% hydrogen peroxide at 1 mL per pound (max 45 mL / 3 tbsp), given by mouth, causes vomiting in 10-15 minutes. Do NOT use salt, mustard, or finger-down-throat – those are ineffective or dangerous.
🚨 Red flag — call your vet now if: ingested substance is corrosive, petroleum-based, or sharp; dog is unresponsive or seizing; or more than 2 hours have passed since ingestion – go straight to a vet.
What you should actually do
- 3% hydrogen peroxide dose: 1 mL/lb body weight (0.5-1 mL/kg), maximum 45 mL per dose. May repeat once after 15 minutes if no vomiting.
- Most effective within 2 hours of ingestion – after that, much of the toxin is already absorbed.
- Do NOT induce vomiting for: caustic substances (drain cleaner, bleach), petroleum products, sharp objects, or in an already-vomiting/seizing/unconscious dog.
- Apomorphine (vet-administered, subcutaneous) is the safer in-clinic alternative and works within 5 minutes.
- Always call ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) before inducing at home.
Hydrogen peroxide works by irritating the gastric lining – the foam expansion mechanically distends the stomach and triggers vomiting. It’s not without risk: peroxide itself can cause gastritis, esophagitis, and in rare cases gas embolism or aspiration pneumonia if a dog vomits while lying down.
Cats should NOT be given hydrogen peroxide – the AVMA specifically warns against it because of severe gastric ulceration risk; cats need in-clinic emetics like dexmedetomidine or xylazine instead. For dogs, the peroxide protocol is well-established but always confirm with poison control first.
Dig deeper
⚕️ Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is intended for educational purposes only and does not replace a hands-on veterinary examination. Drug doses depend on your dog’s complete clinical picture, concurrent medications, and the exact product formulation. Always confirm dosing with your veterinarian before administering any medication, and contact a 24-hour veterinary emergency service or animal poison control immediately if you suspect a medication overdose or adverse reaction. Editorial standards: every drug dose published on PuppaDogs is cross-checked against multiple authoritative veterinary references and reviewed by PuppaDogs Veterinary Editorial Team before publication.
