Is it possible to use Benadryl for dogs itching problems? When a dog starts itching and scratching, we usually assume it has fleas, but although this is undoubtedly a common cause of itching in dogs, there are also many other reasons why your best friend might decide to enjoy a prolonged scratching session. So if you want to prevent any long-term skin damage, it is important that you find out what is causing the itching symptoms.
Itching in dogs can be caused by lots of different things. Severe itching is often symptomatic of a bacterial skin infection, but itchy and flaky skin can also be the result of fungal infections such as yeast, various parasites, or a condition known as Seborrhoea. Itchy skin can even be a symptom of a serious health problem, including immune system disorders and liver disease.
Can pet owners use Benadryl for dogs itching problems?
Because itching is usually symptomatic of an underlying medical condition, it is sensible to try and find out what is causing the problem before resorting to medications such as Benadryl. Itchy skin in dogs is often a result of an allergy, so in the first instance, see if you are able to figure out what might be causing an allergic reaction in your dog.
Benadryl is a useful medication for all types of allergic reaction in dogs and although it was designed as an antihistamine for human use, it is just as effective in animals such as dogs. The active ingredient in Benadryl is Diphenhydramine hydrochloride and scientists first discovered more than thirty years ago that it was very successful at treating the symptoms of allergies in humans. Today, Benadryl is regularly used by pet owners to treat the same symptoms in dogs and it is widely considered to be a very safe treatment.
Do you treat your dog to titbits, or is he on a strict diet of dog food only? Food is often the culprit behind allergic reactions and dogs can suffer from allergies to many common food products, including protein and artificial food colourings. Try cutting out any junk food and extra snacks to see if the itchy skin problem disappears.
Dogs can also be allergic to environmental allergens, so be aware that your dog may have a problem with dust, pollen, and even sunlight. Hay fever is a common problem during the summer months and, like humans, many dogs suffer from the effects of an allergy to pollen. Unlike food allergies, reducing your dog’s exposure to pollen is extremely difficult as most dogs need regular exercise and fresh air. Thankfully, for dogs in this situation, Benadryl is a very useful medication.
Benadryl can be administered as a pill or in a liquid form. The typical dose would be one 25mg pill per 25Ibs in body weight. For dogs that dislike taking tablets, try crushing the tablet in something tasty, or use Benadryl liquid instead, although be aware that liquid Benadryl contains alcohol and is not as suitable as the tablet form of Benadryl. Never give your dog more than two doses of Benadryl in one 24 hour period, and if in doubt about whether Benadryl is suitable for your dog, always consult a veterinarian for advice. Click here for the Benadryl dosage Chart for dogs.
My dog Frodo has allergies. He takes 25 mg of Benadryl twice daily for relief. How long can he continue to take a daily regimen of Benedryl before he needs to take a break and let it clear his system? Or, can he take it daily for an indefinite period?
Our vet says the dog can handle that amount forever. It will not harm his liver unless he has a preexisting liver condition.
I give my JRT one a day every day in the summer because he won’t leave bees alone. My vet tech said it was fine.