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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 for dogs, commonly known by the over-the-counter human medication 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 human medication, here is what you need to know about using diphenhydramine or Benadryl for dogs.

What Is Benadryl?

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.

What Does Benadryl Treat in Dogs?

Benadryl is a great medication for use in dogs with mild-to-moderate allergies. Seasonal allergies, food allergies, environmental allergies, and allergic reactions to bites from snakes and insects all respond to Benadryl in most cases. Benadryl is commonly used to treat itchiness in dogs caused by skin allergies, and it also reduces many of the other symptoms of allergies, including:

  • Hives
  • Swelling and inflammation
  • Redness
  • Runny nose and eyes
  • Coughing
  • Sneezing
  • Anaphylactic reaction

One of the side effects of Benadryl is drowsiness, which can help to calm anxious dogs. Diphenhydramine may help relieve symptoms of mild-to-moderate travel anxiety in pets. It also may help relieve motion sickness. Although Benadryl may sometimes relieve anxiety, it’s best to talk to your veterinarian or an animal behaviorist to determine and treat what’s causing the anxiety.

Veterinarians prescribe Benadryl for dogs with mast cell tumors to help mitigate the effects of the massive histamine release caused by mast cell degranulation. Veterinarians sometimes prescribe diphenhydramine during heartworm treatment, as it helps reduce the risk of an allergic reaction to heartworm treatment therapy. Benadryl makes an excellent addition to your diphenhydramine for dogs.

Bloodhound puppy scratching himself in a field of dandelions.
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When to Ask Your Vet About Benadryl For Dogs

Before you reach for Benadryl, consult your veterinarian about your dog’s symptoms. Allergy symptoms like itching and red eyes may also be signs of more serious conditions. In some cases, giving your dog Benadryl can actually worsen your dog’s condition.

Red, goopy eyes could be a symptom of allergies, or it could also be a sign of glaucoma or dry eye, which Benadryl will not help treat. Similarly, itching is frequently associated with allergies and other skin conditions. Your vet will also be able to tell you whether Benadryl will interact with any other medications that your dog is taking.

Side Effects of Benadryl

There are side effects associated with using Benadryl for dogs that all owners should be aware of. Most side effects occur within the first hour of exposure, so monitor your dog carefully during this time.

If your dog has any of the following conditions, only use Benadryl after consulting your veterinarian:

Common side effects associated with using Benadryl for dogs include:

  • Drowsiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Urinary retention
  • Hypersalivation
  • Increased heart rate
  • Rapid breathing

Rare side effects include:

Benadryl Overdose

It’s possible to overdose on Benadryl. Signs of an overdose include hyper-excitability of the central nervous system, which can be fatal. Other warning signs to watch for are:

If you suspect your dog has overdosed on Benadryl, contact your veterinarian or emergency veterinary hospital immediately. Some dogs develop an allergic reaction to Benadryl. If your dog starts having symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek veterinary care immediately.

How Much Benadryl Can I Give My Dog?

The best way to determine the correct Benadryl dosage for dogs is to consult your veterinarian. The Merck Veterinary Manual recommends administering 2-4 milligrams of Benadryl per kilogram of body weight, two to three times a day. However, this dosage can vary depending on your dog’s medical conditions.

Bull Terrier rolling in the grass outdoors at sunset.
Aly Tyler/Getty Images Plus via Getty Images

Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinary Officer for the AKC, warns that you should always consult with a veterinarian before giving Benadryl to a puppy because young puppies can be very sensitive to certain medications. The drug is also not recommended for pregnant or nursing dogs.

Never use time-release capsules for dogs, as capsules are absorbed differently in dogs than in humans and may affect your dog’s dosage. They may also break open when chewed and deliver too much medication at one time, putting your dog at risk of an overdose. Your veterinarian can prescribe diphenhydramine capsules for dogs.

It’s best to avoid using liquid Benadryl if it contains sodium, which can cause other side effects. Also, avoid any form of Benadryl that contains alcohol. Your vet can prescribe diphenhydramine liquid for dogs.

Children’s Benadryl pills or tablets can be used safely if you ask your veterinarian for the appropriate dosage. Your vet can even prescribe diphenhydramine flavored chews if your dog refuses to take pills or liquids.

Is Benadryl Safe For Your Dog?

Benadryl is a relatively safe and effective medication for dogs when used according to the instructions of a veterinarian. As with any new medication, always observe your dog closely after administration to make sure there aren’t any adverse reactions. If you have any further questions about diphenhydramine or Benadryl for dogs, contact your veterinarian for more information. And remember to keep all medicines—human and canine—out of reach of your curious dog.

Related article: Dog Allergies: What You Need to Know
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