Here's What You Need To Know Before Giving Benadryl To Your Dogs

Here's What You Need To Know Before Giving Benadryl To Your Dogs

Benadryl is an antihistamine that is often considered dog-safe to administer for seasonal allergy relief or car ride nausea. But is it really safe? That depends on how you’re doing it!

Benadryl works by inhibiting the release of histamine, and it can often help to sedate or calm a dog, as well as calm down nausea and coughing. For the most part, it’s safe for most dogs. However, dogs who have bladder issues, pylorus obstruction, glaucoma, cardiovascular issues, hyperthyroid disease, and hypertension are more likely to experience side effects.

Some possible side effects, though they are very rare, include:

Benadryl is best administered before an allergic reaction, and is most effective when you know the allergy patterns of your canine companion. This is because once an allergic reaction has occurred, the histamine has already been released and cannot be forced back into the body.

The maximum dosage of Benadryl you can give to a dog is 1 mg per pound of their body weight, twice or thrice daily, every 8 to 12 hours. Do not exceed this dosage! And remember to always talk to your vet before giving your dog any kind of medication!

Feature Image Source: Pixabay

Back to blog