Can I give my Morkie Benadryl?

There are two answers to the question Can I give my Morkie Benadryl?

1.  Yes. If you…

2.  Ask your Vet.

Benadryl is an over-the-counter drug used for allergic reactions in people… and pets. It’s just one of the many antihistamines available on the market although it’s probably the best known. The non-trade name of this antihistamine drug is Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride (HCl)1.

Benadryl for allergies to insects

For small dogs, Benadryl is often used to treat insect bites and stings when the dog has had an allergic reaction. Depending on where the sting or bite is, and how much swelling results – Benadryl can literally be a lifesaver.

TAKE CARE: NOT ALL OF OUR MEDICATIONS ARE SAFE FOR PETS. BE SURE TO CHECK WITH YOUR VET. 

Because they often snap at insects, most dogs get bitten on the muzzle or in and around the mouth. Not all stings or bites require treatment; but if your Morkie has an allergic reaction and swells up, that swelling can be quick and quite alarming, and it may be very itchy for your Morkie.  Extreme swelling can even prevent proper breathing and eating. That’s where Benadryl comes in.

Benadryl for motion sickness

Many Morkie owners say that a small amount of Benadryl can help calm motion sickness.

Reactions to vaccinations 

Benadryl is also helpful in treating your Morkie’s (mild) reactions to vaccinations. Again, it can help reduce swelling and itching to make your Morkie more comfortable.

Using Benadryl

For small dogs like Morkies, Yorkies and Maltese, the dosage is low. Start with the children’s version of Benadryl, in liquid form, since tablets contain too much medication.  DO NOT USE “Benadryl Elixir,” a liquid product for adults – it contains alcohol, very dangerous for dogs. Don’t use sugar-free – it contains Xylitol, another poisonous ingredient for dogs.

HERE IS THE FORMULA:

pet’s weight in pounds divided by 2.5 = ml’s to be given

So an  8 lb. dog would get 3.2 ml (8 ÷ 2.5 = 3.2 ml’s)

Please be sure to review this with your Veterinarian.

Drug Cautions

While fairly safe, Benadryl does have potential side effects and is not for every pet. And if your Morkie is on other medications, be sure to check with your Vet about using Benadryl.

TIP: For under $10 invest in a baby set of medicine applicators, to help you accurately measure small amounts of liquid.  You can buy one at your drugstore or order from Amazon. 

Be Prepared

Talk to your Vet about Benadryl and whether he/she would recommend it for your Morkie, and also ask about a safe dosage.  Then have it on hand, along with a measuring syringe.

Potential side effects

According to AZVets.com, there can be some potential side effects to Benadryl but they are usually minor and can include:

• Drooling
• Excitability
• Drowsiness
• Rapid breathing
• Rapid heart rate
• Depression

For severe side effects, contact your Vet immediately.

Benadryl® is the registered trademark of Johnson and Johnson. The non-trade name of this antihistamine drug is Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride (HCl)1.