Generally, the recommended dosage of Benadryl is 1mg per 1lb of your dog's weight. It should only be given to your dog every 8 hours.
Why to Give a Dog Benadryl
Benadryl is an antihistamine. It was designed to relieve allergic reactions in humans but it can be used to treat a number of symptoms dogs. These include the following:
- Insect stings or bites
- Itching
- Car sickness
- Allergic reactions to things like vaccinations
Benadryl also causes drowsiness so you can use it as a mild sedative. This is also a side-effect to watch out for though. If you choose to give your dog Benadryl then check that the product is plan Benadryl. Mixing different drugs could have a harmful effect on him. This means that you can't use anything like Benadryl for Colds or Benadryl Decongestant, it has to be just Benadryl. Also, only use the capsules or pills. The liquid form of Benadryl is very high in alcohol content and is dangerous to an animal's health.
When to Not Give a Dog Benadryl
Benadryl can interfere with other medications your dog is taking and potentially stop them from working properly. If your pet is on other medicine already, check with your vet to ensure it's okay to combine the two. Other conditions that Benadryl might affect include:
- Glaucoma
- Hyperthyroidism
- Cardiovascular disease
- Lung disease
- Prostate enlargement
If your dog has any of the above ailments, it is a good idea to consult your vet and see if Benadryl is the best option for your pet. There might be another type of dog medication available that will be more suitable.
Possible Side Effects from Benadryl
Like all medicines, giving a dog Benadryl could cause side effects. The most common side effect of taking this medication is drowsiness. This could be an advantage, particularly if you have a long car journey ahead, but it is important to keep a look for any other side effects that might occur as well.
There are other potential side effects associated with Benadryl but these are rare. A loss of appetite and a stomach upset can occur. This might involve your dog vomiting or suffering from diarrhea.
Although Benadryl is supposed to be used by humans, your vet can prescribe a dosage for your dog if they think it's necessary. It can be an effective medicine but if you think your dog may have any of the above conditions, seek your vet's advice before giving your dog Benadryl.