As a conscientious pet owner, you want to safeguard your four-legged buddy’s health, which can occasionally entail dealing with common problems like allergies or nervousness. The over-the-counter drug Benadryl, also known by its generic name diphenhydramine, is frequently used to treat a variety of diseases in dogs.
It is essential to know that you’re giving it to your dog in a safe manner. This article will discuss when and how much Benadryl is safe to give your dog.
What is Benadryl?
The over-the-counter (OTC) drug with the active component diphenhydramine goes by the brand name Benadryl. Diphenhydramine is a first-generation antihistamine, which means that it works primarily to reduce allergy symptoms by inhibiting the activity of histamine, a chemical that the body naturally produces in response to allergic reactions.
Several different Benadryl dosage options exist, including tablets, capsules, liquid, and topical creams or gels.
How it Works
Benadryl is an antihistamine that, in some circumstances, can relax your dog and assist in easing allergy symptoms, itching, and itchiness. It functions by obstructing the effects of histamines, which are substances the body releases during allergic reactions.
Benadryl is usually considered safe for dogs when advised, but you should always speak with your vet before giving it to your dog or other pet. Take your pet to the veterinarian immediately if they are experiencing an acute allergic response, including face swelling or breathing difficulties.
A severe allergic reaction may endanger life. In addition to Benadryl, dogs frequently need aggressive supportive care, therapy, and medications like steroids and epinephrine.
Is it Safe to Give Your Dog Benadryl?
When administered in accordance with a veterinarian’s advice, Benadryl is a generally secure and efficient treatment for dogs. Always keep a watchful eye on your dog after giving him any new medication to ensure there are no adverse side effects.
Contact your veterinarian for further information if you have any additional canine queries regarding Benadryl or diphenhydramine.
Benadryl Dosage Chart for Dogs by Weight (Tablet and Liquid Formulations)
Weight Range (lbs) |
Tablet Dosage (25 mg tablet) |
Liquid Dosage (12.5 mg per 5 ml) |
Dosage Frequency |
Notes |
Under 10 lbs |
1/4 tablet (6.25 mg) |
2.5 ml (6.25 mg) |
Every 8-12 hours |
Use children’s formula for accurate dosing. |
10-20 lbs |
1/2 tablet (12.5 mg) |
5 ml (12.5 mg) |
Every 8-12 hours |
Tablet or liquid form is suitable. |
20-30 lbs |
3/4 tablet (18.75 mg) |
7.5 ml (18.75 mg) |
Every 8-12 hours |
Tablet form is typically easier for this range. |
30-40 lbs |
1 tablet (25 mg) |
10 ml (25 mg) |
Every 8-12 hours |
Tablet form is typically used. |
40-50 lbs |
1 and 1/4 tablets (31.25 mg) |
12.5 ml (31.25 mg) |
Every 8-12 hours |
Check with a vet for precise dosing. |
50-100 lbs |
1-2 tablets (25-50 mg) |
10-20 ml (25-50 mg) |
Every 8-12 hours |
Adjust dose as per size within this range. |
Over 100 lbs |
2 tablets (50 mg) |
20 ml (50 mg) |
Every 8-12 hours |
Adjust dosage as per veterinary guidance. |
Correct Benadryl Dose for Dogs
It is essential to have your veterinarian’s advice because the dosage of Benadryl for dogs is dependent on your dog’s size and weight. However, an average dosage recommendation is 1 mg of Benadryl per pound of body weight. For example, a 25-pound dog would generally take 25 milligrams of Benadryl. This is not a hard-and-fast law, just a general principle.
It’s essential to remember that there are many Benadryl formulations, including tablets, capsules, and liquids. To determine the proper dosage, always check the label, as the content of diphenhydramine can differ between products.
Is It Possible That Overdose of Benadryl Can Kill My Dog?
Yes, an overdose of Benadryl can be dangerous to a dog. Symptoms of overdose include extreme drowsiness, confusion, rapid heart rate, seizures, and in severe cases, respiratory failure. If you suspect that your dog has overdosed on Benadryl, it is critical to act immediately:
- Contact Your Veterinarian or Emergency Clinic: Quickly seek professional medical help. Inform them about the suspected overdose, the amount ingested, and any symptoms your dog is exhibiting.
- Follow Professional Advice: The veterinarian might instruct you on specific actions to take before you arrive at the clinic, such as inducing vomiting.
- Prevention for Future: To prevent such situations, always measure the medication accurately and consult your vet before giving Benadryl or any other drugs to your dog. Store all medications out of reach of pets.
Prompt action and professional veterinary care are crucial in managing a Benadryl overdose effectively.
Side Effects of Benadryl in Dogs?
Benadryl’s adverse effects on dogs are comparable to those on people. Dry mouth, drowsiness, and urinary retention are typical side effects.
Rare adverse effects such as diarrhea, vomiting, rapid breathing, elevated heart rate, and changes in appetite can occur in some dogs. If these symptoms worsen, you should contact your veterinarian.
Below, we have mentioned some other side effects of Benadryl in dogs:-
- Seizure disorders
- Hypertension
- Hyperthyroidism
- Low blood pressure
- High blood pressure
When Should You Not Treat Your Dog with Benadryl?
When administered properly, Benadryl is generally well tolerated in dogs, with few adverse effects and a low risk of overdose. However, there are safety dangers if your dog has certain medical conditions or uses certain medications, which is why you should still consult a doctor.
Benadryl should not be used in the following situations:
- Several lung ailments
- Having trouble urinating
- Glaucoma
- liver illness
- disorders of seizures
- Pregnancy
Which Type of Benadryl is Best for Dogs?
Benadryl comes in both standard and pediatric formulations for adults. The medical director at VEG in San Ramon, California, Dr. Jason Dombrosky, DVM, explains that one type isn’t always better than another.
He cautions that you should always read the labels, though, as certain forms, even generics, contain substances that are dangerous to dogs. One type of harmful addition is the artificial sweetener xylitol. Since it is poisonous to dogs, dog owners should always make sure that anything they offer their pets is free of it.
Also, keep in mind that a generic version of Benadryl—diphenhydramine is the primary active ingredient, and the medication is frequently marketed under several store brands—is just as effective as the brand name, provided you read the contents and stay away from additives.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Frequently Can I Give My Dog Benadryl?
According to Dr. Dombrosky, as long as you’re following the instructions for the right amount, you may safely give your dog two to three doses of Benadryl throughout each 24-hour period.
2. How Effective is Benadryl in Treating Anaphylactic Reactions?
A dog experiencing anaphylaxis frequently struggles to breathe, among other significant issues, and it is an emergency that needs to be evaluated and treated by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
3. What Type of Benadryl is a Better Choice for Small Dogs?
Benadryl liquid or children’s chewable tablets are suitable solutions for small dogs. Dogs under 10 pounds can use half of a chewable children’s pill with just 12.5 mg of diphenhydramine.
Wrapping Up
Benadryl can be an effective drug for treating a variety of common problems in dogs, such as allergies, itching, and nervousness. Still, it should only be administered under the supervision of a veterinarian.
Remember to pick the suitable formulation, stick to the suggested dose requirements, and keep an eye out for any adverse effects on your dog. When in doubt, always put your dog’s health and well-being first by consulting a specialist.
