In most cases, medications for people aren’t safe for dogs — but Benadryl is an exception. This over-the-counter medication’s drowsy effect can stop dogs from scratching during an allergic reaction to a vaccine or bug bite. We spoke to Dr. Aliya McCullough, Fetch’s Chief Veterinary Officer and Director of Veterinary Affairs, to get the facts on how and when to safely give your dog Benadryl.
Benadryl is generally safe for dogs, but you should always talk to your vet before giving any new medication to your pup. Veterinarians sometimes recommend giving dogs Benadryl to combat skin itching, allergic skin conditions, reactions to vaccines or bug bites and motion sickness. When it comes to itchiness, the medication makes dogs sleepy enough to stop scratching but doesn’t really stop the itch.
The amount of Benadryl you give your dog depends on your dog’s weight and health status — your vet can help you determine what the right dosage is for your particular pup. High doses of Benadryl can cause dry mouth, difficulty urinating and constipation. If you think your dog is overdosing on Benadryl, contact poison control or get to your emergency animal clinic as soon as possible. These are the key signs that your dog had too much Benadryl:
Benadryl doesn’t relieve dog pain, so you should talk to your vet about other treatment options.
Benadryl isn’t commonly recommended to help with your dog’s anxiety, even though it has a sedative effect. Talk to your veterinarian about other anti-anxiety solutions for dogs, like melatonin.
Dogs shouldn’t take Benadryl if they’re allergic (or currently doing allergy testing), pregnant or suffer from asthma, glaucoma, seizures or prostate or urinary disease.
Don’t give your dog liquid Benadryl, as it can contain sodium or alcohol. Liquid Benadryl is also harder to administer, which can make your pup feel sick.
The Dig, Fetch Pet Insurance's expert-backed editorial, answers all of the questions you forget to ask your vet or are too embarrassed to ask at the dog park. We help make sure you and your best friend have more good days, but we’re there on bad days, too.
Save up to 90% on unexpected vet bills
Use any veterinarian in the U.S. or Canada
Rated 'Excellent' on Trustpilot
The most comprehensive pet insurance
Photo by Atanas Teodosiev on Unsplash
up to 90% of vet bills – covered.
Every 6 seconds, a pet parent gets a $1000+ vet bill. Care for your pet & your wallet with Fetch.
Get your price
