Benadryl Dosing

Benadryl which is also referred to as diphenhydramine is a medication which is readily available over the counter and is used to treat allergic reactions in both humans and animals especially dogs. This medication is FDA approved and is therefore quite safe for use. Many veterinarians highly recommend the use of this drug in dogs and they also safely administer Benadryl dosage for dogs.

This drug is commonly used in dogs for the following reasons:

• Insect and flea bites
• Irritation of the skin
• Sleeplessness in dogs
• Effects of vaccinations
• Motion sickness
• Stings from bees, hornets as well as wasps
• Inhalant allergies
• Stuffy nose
• Tremors of the muscles
• Bodily knots

Benadryl is known to be a highly effective drug mostly due to the fact that it is easily absorbed and therefore acts very fast. In most cases, its effects are seen after about thirty minutes. However, in some cases it has been known to take about one week before any notable results can be seen.

Benadryl Dosage for Dogs:

The right dosage of this medication is usually determined in two different ways as indicated below:

• It is administered by giving 1 milligram for every pound of a dog’s weight after every 8 hours or three times per day. A good example would be, a dog weighing  40lb should take 40mg of Benadryl three times within a single day.

Dogs are grouped according to three different weight classes with the dosage varying between these weight categories. What remains constant is the fact that the medication may be taken up to three times a day as needed. The following are the categories:

- Dogs weighing 30 pounds and below – 10-30mg

- Between 30 and 50 pounds – 25-50mg

- 50 pounds and above – 50mg

As previously stated, it is clear to see that a dosage of Benadryl is highly dependent on a dog’s weight. As an individual who owns a dog for pet, it is highly advisable for you to first take your dog to a certified vet who has the right kind of knowledge and expertise when it comes to administering the right Benadryl dosage for dogs. Taking anything less of a full dose will not help in any way while taking an overdose is considered to be quite dangerous. A veterinarian will also be able to conclude on the right frequency when it comes to administering the drug. This can either be after every four, eight or even twelve hours. More importantly the vet will also ask various probing questions which will help him come to a conclusion as to whether or not your pet dog is suffering from an allergic reaction or something totally different.

Benadryl dosage for dogs and how to administer it:

Administering this medication to your pet dog can be done in different ways:

• Position the table or capsule into small pieces of meat
• Liquid gel capsules cab be dipped into a delicious treat

This drug can also be administered in the form of an injection although it is not so common. The importance of consulting with your vet before using this medication should never be overlooked.