Diphenhydramine Dosing for a 15-Pound Dog
The recommended dose of diphenhydramine (Benadryl) for a 15-pound dog is 15-30 mg (1-2 mg/kg) given orally every 8-12 hours as needed. 1
Dosage Calculation
- For a 15-pound dog (approximately 6.8 kg), the appropriate dose range is 6.8-13.6 mg based on the 1-2 mg/kg dosing guideline 1
- In practical terms, this translates to approximately 15-30 mg per dose, which is typically half to one 25 mg tablet or 5-10 ml of children's liquid formulation (12.5 mg/5 ml) 1
- The medication can be administered every 8-12 hours as needed 1
Administration Guidelines
- Oral administration is preferred for home use 1
- Diphenhydramine can be given with or without food, though giving with food may help reduce potential stomach upset 1
- For allergic reactions, the medication should take effect within 30 minutes 1
Indications for Use
- Mild to moderate allergic reactions (hives, facial swelling, itching) 1
- Motion sickness 2
- Mild sedation (though research shows limited effectiveness for sedation in dogs) 2
Important Considerations
- Diphenhydramine is considered a second-line therapy for allergic reactions; severe allergic reactions require immediate veterinary attention and epinephrine 1
- The medication may cause drowsiness in some dogs, which is an expected side effect 2
- Higher doses do not necessarily produce more sedation in dogs, as demonstrated in veterinary studies 2
When to Seek Veterinary Care
- For severe allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, collapse, severe swelling) seek immediate veterinary care 1
- If symptoms don't improve within 24 hours of administering diphenhydramine 1
- If the dog has pre-existing medical conditions or is taking other medications 3
Potential Side Effects
Remember that while diphenhydramine is generally safe for dogs when used appropriately, any medication should ideally be used under veterinary guidance, especially for ongoing conditions.