Clubs Offering:
The temptation to reach into our medicine cabinets to treat our pets can be dangerous. Humans and dogs react very differently to medications, which is why veterinarians caution dog owners against making independent decisions about how to medicate their animals. However, some human medications are safe for use with dogs, as long as they are used appropriately.
Veterinarians use diphenhydramine, commonly known by the brand name Benadryl, for dogs on a regular basis to treat allergies, travel anxiety, and motion sickness. While you should always consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog a human medication, here is what you need to know about using Benadryl for dogs.
Benadryl is the brand name for the active ingredient diphenhydramine HCl. Diphenhydramine is a first-generation ethanolamine-derivative antihistamine, which is the scientific way of classifying antihistamines that can cross the blood-brain barrier – making them very effective but also increasing risks of adverse side effects. While Benadryl is not yet FDA-approved for veterinary use, it is considered safe for use in dogs and cats and is commonly used in veterinary practices across the U.S.
Diphenhydramine works by blocking the receptors that receive histamines in the body. This relieves many of the symptoms associated with allergies, like itching, sneezing, and hives. The body still produces histamines, but the receptor antagonist blocks the receptors from registering the histamines.
When to call your vet. In an emergency, you should always call your vet first. Your dog may experience anaphylactic shock from their allergies, or in rare cases, from Benadryl itself. Call the vet immediately if your dog is:Â
For acute allergic reactions, itâs better to use faster-acting methods of reducing itching, such as cortisone creams or shots. These treatments begin to work in minutes. However, cortisone treatments are best for short-term use and may lead to uncomfortable side effects for your pet.Â
Alternatives to Benadryl for dogs. If your dog reacts poorly to Benadryl but needs regular allergy treatment for a seasonal allergy, there are some alternatives you can use. Both cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) are considered safe for dogs in the right dosage. However, they are also frequently combined with other ingredients like decongestants, which can hurt your dog. Always consult with a vet before giving your dog any new medication.Â
Benadryl overdose. Ignoring any of these guidelines can lead to an overdose of diphenhydramine, with symptoms ranging from seizures to respiratory failure to a coma, depending on the size of the overdose. If you believe your dog has overdosed on Benadryl, contact your vet immediately and follow their instructions for emergency treatment.
These may be signs of a serious allergic response that needs immediate treatment. Similarly, if your dog has been bitten by a snake or stung by an unfamiliar insect, call your vet immediately to ensure your dog has not been poisoned.Â
How Much Benadryl Can I Give My Dog?
Dogs metabolize Benadryl faster than people, so Benadryl dosage for dogs is higher than it is for us dog owners. But, its still possible to cause a Benadryl overdose if you dont give the correct dosage of Benadryl or the correct formulation of this medicine. Always talk to a qualified doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM) before giving your dog Benadryl.
Make sure you check the other ingredients in your Benadryl before you share it with your pet. Some formulas contain decongestants, Tylenol, or alcohol, which can be toxic to dogs. The only active ingredient in Benadryl for dogs should be diphenhydramine. Check the full list of ingredients to ensure the formula doesnt contain alcohol.
Never give dogs time-released Benadryl tablets because they can cause an overdose. And talk to your vet before giving your dog liquid Benadryl because the dosage instructions will be different.
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, the proper dosage of diphenhydramine for dogs is 1 mg per pound of body weight. A standard Benadryl tablet contains 25 mg of diphenhydramine, so a 25-pound dog should take one tablet.
If you have a small dog, it can be harder to get the dosage right. Childrens Benadryl tablets may help because they typically contain half the amount of diphenhydramine — 12.5 mg — as a typical Benadryl tablet.
If youre worried about finding the right dosage for your dog, your vet can help. They can tell you the type and amount of over-the-counter Benadryl to give your dog. And often they can give you a prescription for dog-specific medication, formulated for your pets size.
Benadryl For Dogs? Dr. Dan Explains
Benadryl is safe for dogs, but dont give any to your dog without consulting a vet first as the wrong dose could be toxic.
Your vet may recommend Benadryl to help treat your dog for conditions like hives or anxiety and can guide you on delivering the correct dosage and medication.
Heres what you need to know about how much Benadryl your dog should take and when you need to see the vet.