Dog Skin Allergies & Benadryl

Benadryl can help relieve itchy skin in some dogs.

Skin allergies can make your dog miserable so it is important to treat them right away. If you suspect skin allergies are the problem, talk to your veterinarian to see if Benadryl is the right choice of treatment for your dog.

Benadryl

Benadryl is a brand name for the antihistamine medication diphenhydramine. It is commonly used to treat allergies as well as bee stings, bug bites and motion sickness.

Skin Allergies

Allergies can cause a lot irritation to your dog's skin. Symptoms include scratching, chewing, licking, hot spots and hair loss. The dog's skin may also become greasy, thickened and emit an odor.

Safety of Benadryl

Antihistamines such as a Bendadryl are generally considered safe for use in dogs.

Effectiveness

Benadryl is effective in approximately one-third of dog allergy cases.

Side Effects

Drowsiness is the most common side effect of Benadryl. Your dog may also retain urine and have a dry mouth; in rare cases, it may experience diarrhea or vomiting.

Dosage

A dog should be given 0.5 to 2 mg of diphenhydramine per pound approximately two to three times a day. According to Dr. Christine Johnson of the University of Pensylvania, too low a dosage is the most common problem with this type of treatment. However, overdose is possible and can be very serious, so talk to your veterinarian before using.

References

• K9 Web: Skin and Allergy Problems in Dogs
• 1-800-PetMeds: Diphenhydramine