PupkeeperToxicEmergency
Dog ate heart and blood pressure pills? What to do
Beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers can drop a dog's heart rate and blood pressure to life-threatening levels, even after a small overdose.
If your dog ate or touched this, call your vet or a pet poison line now
United States
Poison lines in other countries: United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand
What to do now
- Call your vet or a pet poison line now.
- Keep the packaging and bring it with you.
- Tell the vet if the pills were extended-release.
Don't
- Don't make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Signs to watch for
- Slow heart rate
- Low blood pressure
- Vomiting or stomach upset
- Very sleepy or dull
- Breathing trouble
- Seizures (less common)
When signs appear: Usually within 4 hours; later with extended-release pills
Why
These heart drugs have narrow margins of safety. An overdose slows the heart and lowers blood pressure, which can lead to heart failure and kidney damage.
Sources
- Pet Poison Helpline: Beta-Blockers
- Pet Poison Helpline: Calcium Channel Blockers
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Toxicoses in Animals From Cardiovascular Medications
Guide reviewed 9 October 2026.
General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.