Can I Give My Dog Benadryl?

Why Do You Need Benadryl for Dogs?

Dogs are curious and energetic, so it’s inevitable that some of them will wind up in some sticky situations. From running through some poison ivy to getting stung by a bee, there are plenty of problems that can lead to your dog feeling itchy, uncomfortable, and swollen from an allergic reaction. 

Your dog doesn’t need to suffer, though. With a vet’s guidance, you can use diphenhydramine (Benadryl) to ease the worst of their allergy symptoms. Benadryl is an antihistamine that helps relieve the symptoms of allergies in both humans and animals. It can also be used to relieve the symptoms of motion sickness if a dog needs to be transported long distances. 

Here’s how Benadryl can be given to dogs safely. 

Benadryl Dosage for Dogs

Getting the dosage right is important because most Benadryl tablets are intended for humans. Dogs are smaller than people, so they need less Benadryl than a person. Dogs also metabolize Benadryl differently, so it’s not a good idea to rely on human dosing guidelines. Always consult your veterinarian before giving Benadryl to your dog.

The correct dosage of diphenhydramine for dogs depends on their weight. A small dog will need much less than a big dog to receive the same positive effects. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, the safe dosage is 2-4 milligrams of medication per kilogram of weight, or 0.9 to 1.8 milligrams per pound. This amount can be given two to three times daily, depending on your dog’s symptoms. 

Can You Give Dogs Medications Meant for Humans?

Benadryl is not approved by the FDA for use in animals. So there are no Benadryl formulations specifically for pets. The human medication is used “off-label.” If you are going to give your dog Benadryl, keep this guidance in mind: 

• Never offer your dog medications with decongestants or alcohol in the formula. Only offer them medications with diphenhydramine and no other active ingredients. Decongestants and alcohol can be toxic for your dog. 
• Dogs should never be given time-released drug capsules. Your dog’s stomach works differently from yours, and a capsule that works well for humans may overdose your dog. Plus, if they bite the capsule, they may get the entire dose at once instead of it being spread out over time. 
• For small dogs, it may be better to use children’s Benadryl than Benadryl for adults. This lets you adjust the dose more carefully. 
• If you are going to use liquid Benadryl medication instead of tablets, talk to your dog’s vet to make sure you use the right dosage. Liquid medication is absorbed differently, and the 2-4 milligrams per kilogram guideline may not apply.