Benadryl, known generically as diphenhydramine, is a common over-the-counter medication that veterinarians sometimes recommend for dogs. While it can be useful for certain conditions, it’s crucial to understand the correct dosage and potential risks before administering it to your furry friend. Knowing how much Benadryl to give a dog is vital for their safety and well-being.
What is Benadryl and How Does it Work for Dogs?
Benadryl is a first-generation antihistamine that works by blocking H-1 receptors in the body from reacting to histamine. This action can help alleviate allergy symptoms. Additionally, it can help reduce nausea and vomiting by acting on the chemoreceptor trigger zone in the brain and the vestibular apparatus in the ear, which is responsible for balance.
Veterinarians often recommend Benadryl for dogs to manage mild allergic reactions and to ease nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness or vestibular issues.
When Can Benadryl Be Used for Dog Allergies?
Oral Benadryl can help alleviate mild allergy symptoms caused by common triggers like pollen, mold, and house mites, especially when used alongside other allergy treatments. It can also be effective for mild allergic reactions to insect bites or stings and as a pre-treatment for mild allergic reactions to vaccines.
However, if your dog experiences a severe allergic reaction with facial swelling or difficulty breathing, seek immediate veterinary care. These reactions can be life-threatening and require aggressive treatment with steroids and epinephrine, in addition to Benadryl.
Can Benadryl Help with Anxiety in Dogs?
While some pet owners consider Benadryl for dogs with travel anxiety or fear of fireworks and thunderstorms, its effectiveness is limited. Benadryl might make some dogs drowsy, but it doesn’t address the underlying anxiety.
For motion sickness-related anxiety, Benadryl can be beneficial. However, some dogs may experience hyperactivity instead of sedation.
If your dog suffers from anxiety, consult your veterinarian for a comprehensive treatment plan, which may involve environmental changes, behavioral training, prescription medications, or anxiety vests and pheromones.
Is Benadryl Safe for Dogs?
Generally, Benadryl is well-tolerated by dogs, with few side effects and a low risk of overdose when used correctly. However, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian before administering Benadryl, especially if your dog has certain health conditions or is taking specific medications.
Benadryl should be used with caution or avoided altogether in dogs with:
- Cardiac conditions (cardiovascular disease)
- Certain lung conditions
- Liver disease
- Seizure disorders
- Difficulties urinating
- Glaucoma
- Pregnancy
- Concurrent use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors or certain antifungal medications
Potential Side Effects of Benadryl in Dogs
At normal doses, the most common side effects of Benadryl in dogs are drowsiness and unsteadiness. However, an overdose can lead to more severe symptoms, including:
- Pronounced sedation or agitation
- Severe unsteadiness
- Disorientation
- Aggression or other unusual behaviors
- Slow breathing
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Coma
- Seizures
Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog experiences any worrisome symptoms after taking Benadryl.
Determining the Correct Benadryl Dosage for Dogs
The safest approach to determining the proper Benadryl dosage for your dog is to consult your veterinarian. Many formulations are combined with other potentially dangerous medications, such as Tylenol. Ensure your Benadryl tablets contain only diphenhydramine.
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, the standard dose for Benadryl is 2–4 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, or 0.9–1.8 milligrams (mg) of Benadryl per pound.
A practical dose is 1 mg of Benadryl per pound of your dog’s weight, given two to three times a day. For example, a 10-pound dog could receive a 10 mg dose in the morning, afternoon, and evening.
| Your Dog’s Weight | Recommended Dosage | Maximum Dosage |
|---|---|---|
| 5 pounds | 5 mg | 10 mg |
| 10 pounds | 10 mg | 20 mg |
| 20 pounds | 20 mg | 40 mg |
| 30 pounds | 30 mg | 60 mg |
| 40 pounds | 40 mg | 80 mg |
| 50 pounds | 50 mg | 100 mg |
| 75 pounds | 75 mg | 150 mg |
| 100 pounds | 100 mg | 200 mg |
Benadryl comes in various forms, including tablets, capsules, liquids, and children’s chewable tablets, which can complicate dosage calculations. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian!
Benadryl Tablets and Capsules
Benadryl tablets are available in 25 mg or 50 mg of diphenhydramine, suitable for 25-pound or 50-pound dogs, respectively.
Multiple tablets or capsules can be used to reach the appropriate dose for larger dogs. You can split 25 mg tablets to fine-tune the dose. For example, a 60-pound dog could receive one 50 mg tablet and half of a 25 mg tablet.
Children’s Chewable or Liquid Benadryl for Dogs
Children’s chewable or liquid Benadryl are good options for small dogs. A full chewable children’s tablet contains 12.5 mg of diphenhydramine and can be halved for dogs weighing less than 10 pounds.
Children’s liquid Benadryl contains 2.5 mg/ml and may be easier to administer to small dogs that resist taking pills.
How Often Can You Administer Benadryl to Your Dog?
Benadryl can be given to dogs every eight to 12 hours (two to three times a day).
Are There Alternatives to Benadryl for Dogs?
Given the advancements in veterinary medicine, several treatments may be more effective than Benadryl. Consult your veterinarian to explore alternative options for managing your dog’s condition.
Conclusion
While Benadryl can be a useful medication for managing mild allergies and motion sickness in dogs, it’s essential to understand the correct dosage and potential risks. Always consult your veterinarian before administering Benadryl to your dog to ensure their safety and well-being. They can provide personalized guidance based on your dog’s specific health needs and help you determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
