Every pet owner wants the best for their canine companion. One of the very few over-the-counter drugs made for humans that some veterinarians may have pet parents give to their dogs at home is diphenhydramine, also well-known as Benadryl. If your dog is suffering from a mild allergic reaction or was stung by an insect, Benadryl can help keep them calm. Even though dogs mainly tolerate Benadryl well, it is not always the solution. What is the suggested dosage for your dog? How often can I give my dog Benadryl, and is Benadryl safe for dogs? Benadryl may have the opposite effect for some dogs. It should not be used with animals that have some medical conditions because it can increase your pet’s anxiety. We will go over when it is safe and effective to give your dog Benadryl, when to use other treatments, and whether your veterinarian is on board. Before giving your dog Benadryl, think about these points.

An antihistamine called Benadryl stops histamine from triggering the body’s H-1 receptors. By blocking the chemoreceptor trigger zone, the brain’s vomiting center, it reduces nausea and vomiting. It also reduces the body’s balance center’s reaction to motion, which is the vestibular apparatus in your ear.