Can I Give My Dog Benadryl
If you are a dog owner, and if your dog is restless and suffering from sleeping disorder, then, it is really a cause for concern. Insomnia or sleeping disorder can be quite a problem not only for humans, but for dogs too. If your dog is suffering from insomnia, and having sleepless nights, you have to find a solution to treat your dog. You must be wondering what medication can help. Benadryl can help to solve this problem in humans, but can dogs be given Benadryl?
Benadryl is an over-the-counter antihistamine which you can buy from the drug store. But can you give your dog Benadryl? Read on to know the answer….
The answer is yes you can give your dog Benadryl
Generally speaking you can give your dog Benadryl, but the proper recommended dosage is a very critical factor. Benadryl is harmless and safe to be given to dogs, if the dosage is right, but it might not be safe for puppies. Check with your vet regarding giving Benadryl, if you own a puppy.
Causes for canine insomnia
Insomnia is a common problem among dogs that many owners complain about. If your dog does not sleep properly for several days, it means that your dog is suffering from some problem and you need to check it out. Some of the causes for sleeplessness in dogs are old age, lack of exercise, certain medications, emotional problems such as stress, tension or anxiety and physical problems like injuries, arthritis, flea infestation, allergies, kidney problem, diabetes or urinary incontinence.
Benefits of Benadryl for canine insomnia
Diphenhidramine, the active ingredient in Benadryl induces sleep in dogs suffering from insomnia. Benadryl blocks the uptake of acetylcholine; a substance related to sleep and promotes sleep by causing drowsiness.
Side effects of Benadryl
Research conducted on dog’s show that, no major side effects are noticed, on dogs that are given Benadryl. Only mild side effects such as drowsiness and mild disorientation are noticed. If any other side effects are noticed, please call the vet.
Benadryl dosage for dogs
How much benadryl for a 10 or 15 pound dog? The formula for dosage depends on the weight of the dog i.e. 1 mg Benadryl for every 1 lb of body weight. So a 5 pound dog should be given 5 mg of Benadryl, 10 pound dog 10 mg, 25 pound dog 25 mg, 50 pound dog 50 mg, 100 pound dog 100 mg and so on. Don’t use the liquid form of Benadryl as it has high alcohol content which can be harmful for your dog. Also ensure that you use Benadryl that does not contain sodium.
Other benefits of Benadryl for dogs
Apart from treating canine insomnia, Benadryl is used to treat a variety of conditions in dogs such as allergies, motion sickness, bee stings, vomiting, motion sickness, restlessness, itching and also muscle stiffness.
A dog who does not get enough sleep, does not get the required rest needed to stay healthy and if your dog is suffering from insomnia, you need to look into the matter immediately with the appropriate dosage of Benadryl, now that you know that it is safe for your dog. But if Benadryl does not work for your dog and help him to sleep, then it might be a serious problem and it is advisable to take him to the vet.
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