Can I give Benadryl to my Frenchie? Yes, you can give Benadryl to your French Bulldog. For several ailments, vets recommend Benadryl for most dogs. These include motion sickness, autoimmune and allergic reactions from bug bites, and seasonal allergies, which can all be helped with medication like Benadryl.
Benadryl is also often used for French Bulldogs experiencing mild to moderate anxiety disorders as it can induce sleepiness. During high-stress circumstances such as severe storms or fireworks, many Frenchie owners give their dogs Benadryl.
Benadryl is a brand-name antihistamine that you can purchase over-the-counter. It treats seasonal allergic reactions, other allergies, the common cold, skin irritation caused by insect bites, hives, and other factors.
When to use Benadryl with your French Bulldog
To help with allergies:
When an allergic response causes discomfort, Benadryl may be able to provide comfort for your French Bulldog. It can also help with runny noses and watery eyes caused by various factors.
| Runny or stuffy nose | Redness and inflammation |
| Swelling | Excessive itchiness |
| Red, itchy, or dry eyes | Watery eyes |
| Sneezing | Hives |
To help with motion sickness:
Chemically, the active component in Benadryl, diphenhydramine, is very similar to the active element for Dramamine. Dramamine is an over-the-counter travel sickness medication that a veterinarian can also prescribe for dogs.
Because of the similarities between the two medications, Benadryl can be useful in helping your Frenchie cope with nausea caused by vehicle motion.
| Excessive drooling | Whining |
| Vomiting | Trembling |
| Restlessness | Repetitive swallowing |
| Compulsive licking | Diarrhea |
To help with anxiety:
Benadryl can also be very beneficial in cases of situational anxiety. As the title suggests, situational anxiety is fear or anxiety caused by the situations or circumstances your Frenchie has encountered. The following are some of the most likely reasons for situational anxiety in your French Bulldog:
- Fireworks
- Thunderstorms
- Travel
- Unfamiliar or unusual visitors
- noises, especially loud noises like construction
Symptoms include:
| Trembling or shivering | Compulsive licking or other behaviors |
| Hiding | Refusing to engage or take part in activities |
| Diarrhea | Tail tucked between legs |
How much Benadryl should I give my French Bulldog?
How much Benadryl for french bulldog: You should always weigh your French Bulldog before giving the Benadryl and then use the chart below. But on average, The American Kennel Club states that a French Bulldog should be 28 pounds/ 12.5 kilograms and under.
The standard oral Benadryl recommended dose for dogs is 1 mg per pound of bodyweight, administered 2-3 times daily. Most diphenhydramine tablets are 25 mg in size, which is appropriate for a 25-pound Frenchie.
However, the best method to administer the correct dose is to consult with your veterinarian. Furthermore, many products contain other medications, such as Paracetamol, so please ensure Benadryl tablets contain diphenhydramine.
Benadryl for dogs: Dosage chart ml Averages:
| Age of French Bulldog | Weight | Dosage |
|---|---|---|
| Four week | 2.0 – 4.2 lbs | 3 mg |
| Eight week | 5.0 – 6.9 lbs | 5 mg |
| 12 week | 6.9 – 9.0 lbs | 8 mg |
| 16 week | 9.0 – 12 lbs | 10 mg |
| 18 week | 12 – 15 lbs | 13 mg |
| 22 week | 15 – 16 lbs | 15 mg |
| 26 week | 16 – 18 lbs | 17 mg |
| Adult | 23 – 28 lbs | 25 mg |
Are there any side effects?
Benadryl is thought to be quite safe for dogs. However, if your Frenchie is taking other medications simultaneously, they may be sensitive to it. Consult your veterinarian first.
Side effects are possible with any medication. Serious side effects from Benadryl are extremely rare, but you really should always be on the lookout for any unforeseen side effects. Some side effects can be:
| Dry mouth | Changes in appetite |
| Vomiting or nausea | Diarrhea |
| Panting or faster breathing. | Faster heart rate |
| Excessive drooling | Sleepiness |
Relief Without Benadryl
Suppose your Frenchie reacts badly to Benadryl but needs regular allergy treatment for a seasonal allergy. In that case, alternative treatments may be an option. It is generally considered safe for dogs to use cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) in the right dosage. However, they are often combined with decongestants, which can cause serious health risks to your dog. Here are some alternatives to giving your French Bulldog Benadryl. Before giving it to your pup, any new medication should always be discussed with your veterinarian.
When acute allergic reactions, it is best to use faster-acting methods to relieve itchings, such as cortisone creams or injections. These treatments are effective within minutes. Nevertheless, cortisone treatments should only be used for a short period. Extensive use may cause discomfort.
Conclusion
Benadryl can be an excellent treatment for French Bulldogs suffering from allergic reactions, situational anxiety, or nausea and vomiting. Diphenhydramine is a low-cost, convenient medication that can be used to treat a wide range of symptoms.
That being said, keep your pet’s well-being in mind at all times. Medications should always be measured carefully. If you are uncertain about your Frenchies condition, seek advice from your veterinarian. If you are unsure whether Benadryl is the best solution, speak with your veterinarian.