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Some human drugs are dangerous and can even be fatal when given to dogs. When a dog develops a health problem at home such as vomiting, diarrhea, or coughing, many pet owners want to know what they can safely give their dogs at home before taking their dog to the veterinarian.
Not only is important to know which medications are safe but also which medications are available to you without a prescription. Drugs you may obtain without a prescription are referred to as “OTC” drugs which means over-the-counter. OTC drugs are available at most pharmacies such as Wal-Mart®, Walgreens®, CVS®, Target®, and/or online pharmacies and drug stores.
Below we will give you information about 30 over-the-counter medications (OTC) that are commonly used humans and can be used safely in most dogs.
We will include information about stomach medications which can be used in dogs with sensitive stomach or vomiting, drugs to treat diarrhea, pain medications, drugs for coughing, drugs that can be used to treat dogs that have allergies and are showing symptoms such as itching, medications to use on dogs that get car sick, and a safe eye product.
It is recommended that you work with your family veterinarian before giving any medication to your dog.
Human OTC Stomach Medications Used in Dogs
Famotidine (Pepcid®)
Famotidine, commonly known by the brand name Pepcid® among others, is a histamine H2 receptor antagonist that decreases the production of acid in the stomach. It is frequently used to treat stomach problems such ulcerations and for pets with nausea or are prone to vomiting.
Famotidine is the most commonly used in this class due to its improved mechanism of action and length of action. Famotidine has largely replaced previous generation drugs, such as Cimetidine and Ranitidine. We will discuss these medications more below.
Famotidine is available in both injectable and oral tablet sizes. Common oral sizes include 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg. A common OTC size is 10 mg. A common dosage is 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg/pound once to twice a day.
For example, a 10-pound dog would get 2.5 mg to 5 mg total dose or ¼ to ½ of a 10 mg tablet. A 20-pound dog would get 5 mg to 10 mg per dose which would be ½ to 1 10 mg tablet.
Here is more information on how to safely dose and use Famotidine in dogs.
Ranitidine (Zantac®)
Ranitidine, commonly known by the brand name Zantac among others, is a histamine H2 receptor antagonist that decreases the production of acid in the stomach. Like Famotidine listed above is commonly used to treat stomach problems such ulcerations.
Ranitidine is available in both injectable and oral tablet sizes. Common oral sizes include 75 mg, 150 mg, and 300 mg. Here is an article on how to correctly dose and use Ranitidine in dogs.
Cimetidine (Tagamet®)
Cimetidine, commonly known by the brand name Tagamet® among others, is the oldest common histamine H2 receptor antagonist drug that decreases the production of acid in the stomach. Cimetidine is less commonly used due to the development of new and better drugs in the class of histamine H2 receptor antagonist.
However, in a pinch, some pet owners have this medication in their homes and can use Cimetidine. Famotidine (also known as Pepcid and discussed above) and Ranitidine areknown as Zantac and discussed above) both have fewer drug interactions with longer activity.
The risks associated with Cimetidine mostly evolves around its interaction with other drugs. If your dog or cat is on other medications, it is better to choose a newer generation histamine H2 receptor antagonist such as famotidine (Pepcid) discussed above that does not have those same possible adverse effects from drug interactions.
Learn more about how to safely dose Cimetidine in dogs and drug interactions that you should know about.
Calcium Carbonate (Tums®)
Calcium carbonate, commonly known as Tums®, is an antacid and oral phosphate binder. It is commonly used as a calcium supplement in dogs with chronic hypocalcemia and to treat hyperphosphatemia associated with chronic renal (kidney) failure. Calcium carbonate can also be used as an oral antacid and for conditions such as esophagitis and/or gastroduodenal ulcerations. However, calcium carbonate is uncommonly prescribed as an antacid as there are stronger and more effective antacids.
There are many oral calcium carbonate products available in chewable and regular tablets in common sizes are 500 mg, 750 mg, and 1000mg. There is also oral suspensions 1250 mg/5mL.
The dose most commonly used in dogs as an antacid is 0.5 grams and up to 5 grams total dose orally every 4 hours as needed. Small dogs can receive 500 mg, medium sized dogs 750 to 1000 mg and larger dogs 2000 mg.
Learn more about how to safely dose Calcium Carbonate (Tums®) in Dogs and Cats.
Omeprazole (Prilosec®)
Omeprazole, commonly known by the brand name Prilosec®, is used in the treatment and prevention of stomach (gastric) and intestinal ulcers in dogs and cats. Omeprazole belongs to a class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors and lasts about 24 hours.
The dose most commonly used in dogs is 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg per pound once daily (ever 24 hours). Common OTC dosage sizes 10 and 20 mg pill sizes.
Therefore, the dose for a 10-pound dog would be 2.5 to 5 mg (1/4 to ½ of a 10 mg tablet). The dose for a 50-pound dog would be approximately 12.5 to 25 mg total dose. It would be safe to give this dog 10 mg to 25 mg (1 to 2 ½ of the 10 mg tablets). Remember, you could give one 20 mg tablet as well if you purchase that size tablet.
Learn more about how to safely use omeprazole in your dog.
Esomeprazole (Nexium®)
Esomeprazole, commonly known by the brand name NexIUM®, is used in the treatment and prevention of stomach (gastric) and intestinal ulcers in dogs and cats. It is less commonly used then omeprazole (Prilosec) discussed above.
Learn more how to safely use esomeprazole in your dog. Esomeprazole (NEXIUM) for Dogs and Cats.
Human OTC Bowel Medications Used in Dogs
Loperamide (Imodium®)
Loperamide, commonly known as Imodium®, is a synthetic piperidine derivative, that is used to treat diarrhea in dogs. It works primarily by slowing the movement of the intestines and may also decrease intestinal secretions, and enhance mucosal absorption.
It is best to use this over-the-counter medication under the guidance of your veterinarian. If your dog is showing concurrent vomiting, lethargy or weakness, it is best to have your dog evaluated by a veterinarian.
Learn more about how to safely dose Imodium in dogs and drug interactions that you should know about.
Psyllium (Metamucil®)
Psyllium is a bulk-forming laxative, commonly known by the brand name Metamucil® as well as many other generic names. It can be used in dogs with constipation and sometimes in dogs with chronic watery diarrhea.
Diarrhea in dogs is often treated with a bland diet as well. Please see more about Home Care of Diarrhea in Dogs. Learn more about how to safely dose Metamucil in dogs. Please make sure your dog always has plenty of water to drink when giving Metamucil.
Simethicone (Gas-X®)
Simethicone, commonly known as Gas-X, is an anti-foaming and anti-flatulence agent used to treat discomfort, pain, bloating, burping, and flatulence caused by excessive intestinal gas. It is generally safe for dogs of all ages.
Also- here is an article that might be useful that discusses causes and treatment options for flatulence in dogs.
Polyethylene Glycol 3350 (Miralax®)
Polyethylene glycol 3350, commonly known as MiraLAX®, is used as a laxative to treat canine and feline constipation. It commonly comes as a power you can mix with water or sprinkle on your pet’s food. MiraLAX® is also used to empty the intestines prior to diagnostic procedures such as a colonoscopy or intestinal surgery in both pets and humans. MiraLAX® is available without a prescription at most pharmacies. Learn more about how safely use MiraLAX in your pet. Learn more about how to safely give Miralax to your dog.
11. Bismuth Subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol®, Kaopectate®)
Bismuth subsalicylate, better known as Pepto-Bismol, is used to treat diarrhea and minor stomach problems, such as stomach inflammation. New formulations of Kaopectate® contains salicylate. This is important because two tablespoons of Pepto-Bismol contain almost as much salicylate as one aspirin tablet. Some dogs are sensitive to aspirin and should not be given with other medications including steroids (such as Prednisone, Dexamethasone) or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drugs (such as Rimadyl, Novox, Meloxicam, Deramaxx and many more). Please use only under the advice of your veterinarian. Learn more about how to use bismuth subsalicylate in dogs.
IMPORTANT WARNING: Bismuth Subsalicylate should never be used in cats.
Culturelle®
Culturelle is a probiotic recommended in dogs with diarrhea, constipation, or dog that have excessive “gas”. Probiotics are substances that stimulate the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the intestinal flora. They are generally live bacteria and yeasts.
The intestinal tract is normally full of bacteria, both good and bad, and in the healthy body has the right balance. In illness or while taking certain medications such as antibiotics, the bad bacteria can take over. Probiotics can help restore the good bacteria and reestablish the right balance. There are many types of probiotics and one that is commonly used in dogs and cats is called “Culturelle”. Learn more about probiotics and prebiotics.
Culturelle is a human over-the-counter product. It is available in capsules and in sachet’s (little packets like sweeter). The dose of the packet is generally easy as you sprinkle it on the food. The dose is 1/10 of a packet per 10 pounds of body weight daily. A 50-pound dog would get ½ packet once a day. ADD LINK AFTER ADD ARTICLE
Bisacodyl (Dulcolax®)
Bisacodyl is commonly known as Dulcolax® and is used as a laxative to treat constipation for dogs and cats. Bisacodyl is available in 5 mg tablets, 5 mg and 10 mg rectal suppositories and 10 mg/30 ml enema bottles. For dogs, the dose varies between 1 to 4 tablets once daily. If you believe your dog is constipated, we recommend that you see your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause. Some dogs will strain and appear to be constipated and actually have a urinary obstruction or colitis.
Learn more about how to safely give your dog Dulcolax.
Docusate Sodium (Colace®)
Docusate sodium is commonly known as Colace® and is used as a laxative to treat constipation in dogs and cats. It can also be used to clean out the intestinal tract in dogs before diagnostic procedures and surgery.
As mentioned above under Dulcolax, some dogs will strain and appear to be constipated but actually may be a life-threatening urinary obstruction or colitis. See your veterinarian if you have concerns.
Learn more about how to safely give your dog Colace.
Allergy Medications
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl®)
Diphenhydramine, commonly known by the brand name Benadryl® among others, belongs to a class or drugs known as antihistamines. Diphenhydramine is routinely used for dogs for treatment of symptoms associated with allergies or allergic reactions. Signs of allergies in dogs often include excessive itching and licking of the skin. Dogs with acute allergic reactions can have swollen faces (especially around the muzzle and eyes) and hives. Dogs with chronic allergies often have secondary skin infections and Diphenhydramine can be used in conjunction with antibiotics and steroid medications to control clinical signs.
Although diphenhydramine is relatively safe, side effects may include sedation, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea and lack of appetite.
The most common dose used in dogs for diphenhydramine is 1 mg per pound. Therefore a 25-pound dog would get one 25 mg tablet and a 50 pound would get two 25 mg tablets. When buying diphenhydramine, make sure “diphenhydramine” is the only ingredient. It also comes in a liquid formulation made for children which makes it easier to dose in smaller dogs.
For more information, learn about how to safely give your dog Diphenhydramine.
For 15 more over-the-counter medications (OTC) that are commonly used in humans and can be used safely in most dogs, please visit this article: 15 MORE Human Over-the-Counter Drugs Safe for Dogs.
FAQs
Can dogs have Advil or Tylenol? ›
Never give your dog the most common over-the-counter human pain relievers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) Naproxen (Aleve)
What human meds are safe for dogs for pain? ›Many human pain relievers are generally not safe for dogs, especially over-the-counter NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and aspirin. However, amantadine is considered one of the safe pain meds for dogs. If you're wondering what you can give a dog for pain and swelling, this might be for you.
What kind of human anti-inflammatory is safe for dogs? ›Do not give your dog ibuprofen or acetaminophen. There are some of the available NSAIDs just for dogs: carprofen (Novox or Rimadyl) deracoxib (Deramaxx)
What can you give a dog for pain relief at home? ›- Hot and Cold Therapy.
- Ginger.
- Turmeric.
- Boswellia.
- Devil's Claw.
- CBD Oil.
- Acupuncture.
- Fish Oil.
The correct dosage of Tylenol is around 10 mg per kg of body weight every 12 hours. Some sources claim that you can give your dog up to 30 mg per kg for a short period. Recommended dosages are different for every dog, so you're best off checking with your veterinarian before giving your dog Tylenol.
Can I give my dog Benadryl for pain? ›If the source of your dog's pain is an allergic reaction, there's one human-grade drug that can be administered with confidence: Benadryl. Veterinarians regularly give dogs a dose of this antihistamine when experiencing a minor allergic reaction.
Can dogs have Benadryl? ›Benadryl is a great medication for use in dogs with mild-to-moderate allergies. Seasonal allergies, food allergies, environmental allergies, and allergic reactions to snake and insect bites all respond to Benadryl in most cases.
Is aspirin safe for dogs? ›The short answer is no. While your vet may prescribe aspirin to help your dog when they're in pain, you should not give them the same medication you have in your cabinet. Medicines like ibuprofen and naproxen can be toxic to dogs, even in small doses.
Is ibuprofen safe for dogs? ›Although relatively safe in humans, ibuprofen and other NSAIDs can be extremely harmful to dogs. Poisoning may happen when pets get into the owner's medications. In some cases, owners may administer ibuprofen to treat their pet's pain prior to consulting a veterinarian.
How much ibuprofen can I give my dog? ›Ibuprofen is toxic to dogs and you should never give it to your pup. Just three to six ibuprofen capsules can be deadly for dogs, so keep the medicine in a safe place. There are canine-specific pain relievers that you can get from your vet or try natural options.
How much Robitussin DM can I give my dog? ›
For coughing: –Dextromethorphan (Robitussin DM with dextromethorphan at 10-15 mg/5ml and Guafenisin at 100mg/5ml), for cough. Roughly, 1 teaspoon per 20 pounds for dogs.
What human meds can be given to dogs? ›- Imodium (Loperamide)
- Pepto-Bismol.
- Benadryl (Diphenhydramine)
- Buffered Aspirin.
- Tagamet (Cimetidine)
- Prilosec (Omeprazole)
- Hydrocortisone.
- Lomotil (Atropine / Diphenoxylate)
Never attempt to relieve your dog's pain by administering over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen, naproxen (e.g., Aleve), acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol), or aspirin. Human anti-inflammatories can cause life-threatening toxicities in pets, and you should give your dog only veterinarian-prescribed medications.
Can you give dogs Aleve? ›In the past, Aleve was prescribed to dogs at a low dose to be given every other day, but due to its toxicity, now Aleve is only recommended to be given to dogs that cannot tolerate other NSAIDs. Aleve can cause kidney damage and gastrointestinal damage in dogs, and should only be given if prescribed by a veterinarian.
Is there an over-the-counter painkiller I can give my dog? ›There are a few different human pain relievers that are safe for dogs. Aspirin is an anti-inflammatory drug that may help but should not be given without consulting with a vet. In addition, there are also natural supplements such as CBD oil that can be used to help relieve your dog's pain.
What is a natural muscle relaxer for dogs? ›Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is an herbal supplement used in dogs and rarely in cats as a sedative, an anti-inflammatory, and a muscle relaxant.
How much Aleve can I give my dog? ›If given to dogs, the dose ranges from 0.5 to 1.5 mg per pound (1 to 3 mg/kg) once daily. Most veterinarians prefer and recommend other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) that have proven to be safe and effective for dogs. Naproxen is NOT RECOMMENDED FOR USE IN CATS.
What happens if a dog eats 500 mg Tylenol? ›What should I do if my dog or cat eats acetaminophen? If the exposure just occurred and your pet is not yet showing any signs of illness, contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline, a 24/7 animal poison control, at 800-213-6680. Early assessment and treatment increase the chance for a safe and successful outcome.
How much aspirin can you give a dog? ›It is recommended to give buffered aspirin if possible. 1 baby aspiring/ 10 pounds body weight given every 12 hours. 1 adult aspirin/40 pounds body weight given every 12 hours. Do not exceed 2 tablets for any dog.
Will Benadryl make a dog sleepy? ›The side effects of Benadryl in dogs are similar to the side effects humans might experience with the drug. These include sleepiness, dry mouth, sluggishness, or urinary retention. Some less common side effects that may appear include diarrhea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, breathing problems, or loss of appetite.
Which OTC antihistamine is best for dogs? ›
The most common antihistamine for dogs is diphenhydramine (brand name Benadryl). Also found in ProSense Dog Itch & Allergy Solutions Tablets, diphenhydramine is safe in most dogs if given in the recommended dosage of 1 mg of diphenhydramine per pound of body weight given by mouth.
What does Zyrtec do for dogs? ›Cetirizine (brand name Zyrtec®, Reactine®) is an antihistamine used to treat pruritus (itching) associated with atopic dermatitis, urticaria (hives), and insect-bite reactions in cats and dogs.
How much Zyrtec can I give my dog? ›Cetirizine (Zyrtec) ¼ - ½ mg per pound (one 10mg tab per 30-40 lbs) twice daily. Loratadine (Claritin): ¼ mg per pound (half of a 10mg tablet per 20 lbs) once daily. Clemastine (Tavist-1, Antihist-1): 0.02mg per pound (one 1.34mg tablet per 65lb dog) twice daily.
Is 25 mg of Benadryl safe for a dog? ›Benadryl Dose for Dogs
Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook recommends giving a standard dosage of 25 milligrams for a 25-pound dog two to three times per day. As a general rule of thumb, use 1 milligram per pound of your dog's body weight. For example, a 50-pound dog would be given two 25 milligram tablets.
Dosage Of Claritin For Dogs
Vets generally prescribe Claritin for dogs in a dosage 0.2 milligrams per pound of body weight. This can translate as giving a small dog around 5 milligrams of Claritin every day, or 10 milligrams for a larger dog.
No, you should never give your dog Tylenol or Ibuprofen. Human NSAIDs, including Ibuprofen and Tylenol, can be toxic to dogs, even in small doses, according to rover.com.
How much Benadryl can I give my dog? ›Benadryl Tablets
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, the standard dose for Benadryl is 2-4 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, or 0.9-1.8 milligrams (mg) of Benadryl per pound. Therefore, a simple and practical dose is 1 mg of Benadryl per pound of your dog's weight, given 2-3 times a day.
For dogs and cats, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is toxic (poisonous or deadly)! Relatively small doses (a single pill or even a small piece of a pill) can be toxic or deadly to any animal species (cats, dogs, ferrets, birds, pigs, primates, and many others).
Will one Advil hurt my dog? ›Advil (Ibuprofen)
Dogs and cats are extremely sensitive to the adverse effects of this class of drugs, called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and ibuprofen is one of the worst offenders. Ingestion of ibuprofen causes renal failure in dogs and cats. Even a single high dose is enough.
In addition to ulcers, increasing doses of ibuprofen eventually lead to kidney failure and, if left untreated, can be fatal. Symptoms of ibuprofen toxicity in a dog may include not eating, vomiting, black tarry stools, abdominal pain, weakness, lethargy, increased thirst and increased urination.
How much Advil can I give my dog for pain? ›
Ibuprofen has a narrow margin of safety in dogs. One recommended dosage is 5 mg/kg/day, divided.
How much Tylenol can I give my 60 pound dog? ›The recommended dosage is 0.5 – 0.9 mg/lb codeine every 6 to 8 hours. This means a dog weighing 60 lbs could be given half of one tablet (30 mg codeine and 150 mg acetaminophen) per dose.
Is Mucinex DM safe for dogs? ›Cold and flu medications such as Mucinex are used to help ease the clinical signs of these viruses. While it is typically safe for humans to take this, it is not recommended that dogs take it.
How much Mucinex DM Can I give my dog? ›The manufacturer's recommended dosing is one-half tablet (50 mg/5 mg) every four hours for small dogs and cats and one tablet (100 mg/10 mg) every four hours for large dogs. Although this product is available without a prescription, a veterinarian should be consulted first.
What is the best cough medicine for dogs? ›Mild over-the-counter cough suppressants such as Mucinex cough medicine for children may help keep pets comfortable. Temaril-P can also be used to treat itching and coughing symptoms in dogs. Keeping pets in a well-humidified area and using a harness instead of a collar may also help decrease the coughing.
Is Claritin safe for dogs? ›Do not give your dog Claritin-D because it contains pseudoephedrine, which is highly toxic to dogs.
How much gabapentin can I give my dog for pain? ›Gabapentin Dosage for dogs
Your vet will determine the dosage of gabapentin for your dog as its a prescription drug. The following are the generally prescribed dose ranges: Seizures: 4.5 to 13.6 mg per pound of your dog's weight, every 8-12 hours. Pain: 1.4 - 5 mg per pound of your dog's weight, every 8-12 hours.
There is no medicinal difference between the aspirin manufactured and packaged for dogs to that made for humans, except for the dosage. Human aspirin is sold in dosages of 81 milligrams, 325 mg and 500 mg. Aspirin made for dogs comes in 120 mg and is sometimes flavored with beef or liver.
Is Benadryl safe for 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 snake and insect bites all respond to Benadryl in most cases.
How much Benadryl can I give my dog? ›Benadryl Tablets
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, the standard dose for Benadryl is 2-4 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, or 0.9-1.8 milligrams (mg) of Benadryl per pound. Therefore, a simple and practical dose is 1 mg of Benadryl per pound of your dog's weight, given 2-3 times a day.
Can dogs have ibuprofen? ›
Can I give Ibuprofen to my Pet? Do not give Ibuprofen to your dog or cat under any circumstances. Ibuprofen and naproxen are common and effective medications used to treat inflammation and pain in humans, but they should not be given to pets. These drugs can be toxic (poisonous) to dogs and cats.
How much Zyrtec can I give my dog? ›Cetirizine (Zyrtec) ¼ - ½ mg per pound (one 10mg tab per 30-40 lbs) twice daily. Loratadine (Claritin): ¼ mg per pound (half of a 10mg tablet per 20 lbs) once daily. Clemastine (Tavist-1, Antihist-1): 0.02mg per pound (one 1.34mg tablet per 65lb dog) twice daily.
What does Zyrtec do for dogs? ›Cetirizine (brand name Zyrtec®, Reactine®) is an antihistamine used to treat pruritus (itching) associated with atopic dermatitis, urticaria (hives), and insect-bite reactions in cats and dogs.
Will 25 mg of Benadryl make my dog sleepy? ›The side effects of Benadryl in dogs are similar to the side effects humans might experience with the drug. These include sleepiness, dry mouth, sluggishness, or urinary retention.
How much Claritin can I give my dog? ›Dosage Of Claritin For Dogs
Vets generally prescribe Claritin for dogs in a dosage 0.2 milligrams per pound of body weight. This can translate as giving a small dog around 5 milligrams of Claritin every day, or 10 milligrams for a larger dog.
The most common antihistamine for dogs is diphenhydramine (brand name Benadryl). Also found in ProSense Dog Itch & Allergy Solutions Tablets, diphenhydramine is safe in most dogs if given in the recommended dosage of 1 mg of diphenhydramine per pound of body weight given by mouth.
Can you give Robitussin to dogs? ›If your dog is coughing up a storm, you may consider giving him a cough suppressant such as Robitussin. This medicine is only intended to be used for a short time period and should only be given under a veterinarian's approval. A veterinarian will determine the correct dosage of Robitussin for your dog.
How many 25 mg Benadryl can I give my dog? ›Benadryl Dose for Dogs
Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook recommends giving a standard dosage of 25 milligrams for a 25-pound dog two to three times per day. As a general rule of thumb, use 1 milligram per pound of your dog's body weight. For example, a 50-pound dog would be given two 25 milligram tablets.
The short answer is no. While your vet may prescribe aspirin to help your dog when they're in pain, you should not give them the same medication you have in your cabinet. Medicines like ibuprofen and naproxen can be toxic to dogs, even in small doses.
Can I give my dog baby aspirin for pain? ›Never attempt to relieve your dog's pain by administering over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen, naproxen (e.g., Aleve), acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol), or aspirin. Human anti-inflammatories can cause life-threatening toxicities in pets, and you should give your dog only veterinarian-prescribed medications.
Can I give my dog Benadryl for pain? ›
If the source of your dog's pain is an allergic reaction, there's one human-grade drug that can be administered with confidence: Benadryl. Veterinarians regularly give dogs a dose of this antihistamine when experiencing a minor allergic reaction.
Is Zyrtec or Benadryl better for dogs? ›Just be aware that Benadryl has sedative properties, so your dog could get very drowsy. Other safe antihistamines for dogs include Claritin (loratadine) and Zyrtec (cetirizine). They produce less sedation than Benadryl does but could still make your dog drowsy.
What Zyrtec is OK for dogs? ›Zyrtec comes in 5 and 10-milligram tablets and can be given either every 24 hours for atopic dermatitis or every 12 hours for allergy symptoms. The 10 mg pills are okay for dogs between 10 and 50 lbs, though 5-10 lb dogs should only take half (or a 5-mg tablet.)
Can dogs take Zyrtec or Claritin? ›Zyrtec (cetirizine) or Claritin (loratadine) can be given once to twice daily. The adult tablets are both 10mg. Dogs under 10 pounds should get no more than 5mg, or ½ of a tablet. Those weighing 10-50 pounds should get 10mg, and heavy dogs (over 50 pounds) can take up to 20mg.