Antihistamine’s and Dogs
Antihistamines can be helpful in treating allergic, itchy dogs. Unfortunately, they can be a bit “hit and miss” in their efficacy.
The best antihistamine for your animal is determined by trial and error. We suggest using a 14 day trial for each medication and moving on to the next one if no, or only a partial response is experienced.
These recommended antihistamines can be purchased over the counter at your local pharmacy. Importantly, please be sure to note your dogs’ weight so you can accurately calculate the correct dose for your pet. If you have any issues, we can happily help you with calculating this if you give us a call.
The below doses are based on a 10kg dog.
Cheaper options, but can cause drowsiness
- Phenergan 10mg tablet; 1-2 tablets once daily – regardless of dog size. (Note; also comes in a 25mg tablet which could be used for large dogs; 1 tab once daily.)
- Polaramine 2mg tablet; 2 tablets twice daily.
More expensive but non drowsy
- Claratyne 10mg tablet; 1 tablet once daily.
- Telfast 120mg tablet; ½ tablet once daily. (Note also comes in 60mg and 180mg tablets so be careful to give correct dose).
- Zyrtec 10mg tablet; 1 tablet once daily.
- Be aware that some antihistamines have a version with pseudoephedrine which is not suitable for dogs (Telfast and Claratyne currently).
Omega 3 fatty acids
Evening Primrose oil or Safflower oil can also help long term with itching – 1 teaspoon per 10kg
If you have any issues or concerns please let us know.