How to Restrain a Large Dog to Give it Medication
Taking medication does not sit well with most dogs, especially oral medication in the form of a pill. If you have to administer medication to a large dog, it can be quite a challenge to get the dog to hold still. Your dog may become frightened and even try to attack you, so restraining your dog is not only recommended, it's mandatory for your personal safety. Follow these steps and tips to restrain your large dog while you're giving him medication.
Instructions
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Speak normally to your dog and try not to act apprehensively. Dogs are extremely intuitive animals and will certainly sense your trepidation and react anxiously to you.
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Take your dog to a small room so he can't run too far away. Get him in a sitting position.
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Find another person to help administer medication to your dog. It is nearly impossible for you to both restrain your dog and try to give him oral medication without him running away or trying to bite you. Get a friend or two to hold the dog's front paws and chest while you give him medication.
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Put a leash on the dog and either have another person hold the leash or tie the leash to a banister or another piece of furniture. Make sure the leash does not choke the dog if he tries to pull away--in fact, you may want a leash that ties to the dog's chest as well as its neck.
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Speak softly to the dog as you give him medication. Say "no" or "bad dog" (or whatever word you've used to train him) if he starts to resist against his restraints.
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Tips & Warnings
Before you administer medication to your dog, talk to your vet about how to administer the medication. Have the vet demonstrate for you how to restrain the dog and give him the medication as smoothly as possible. Give your dog a treat after giving him medication. Your dog will associate medication with rewards and be more cooperative the next time you give him medication.
