It is advisable to seek the advice of a veterinarian on the appropriate antihistamine for dogs.
Antihistamines are often used to treat canine allergies. Common antihistamines used as canine medication include diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine, clemastine fumarate, and hydroxyzine. Each dog will react differently to a particular medication. To guide you, take your dog to see a veterinarian.
Diphenhydramine can be an effective antihistamine for dogs when used for acute reactions, such as those that occur in response to a vaccine, blood transfusion, or canine bee sting. It is also used to treat itching and swelling in dogs. The effects of airborne allergens in dogs can also be mitigated by treatment with diphenhydramine. Veterinarians generally recommend 1 mg of diphenhydramine per pound of dog weight.
A licensed veterinarian should be consulted before giving a dog any type of medication.
Another commonly used antihistamine for dogs is chlorpheniramine. Like diphenhydramine, its effectiveness is greatest when used to treat acute allergic responses to things like snake and insect bites and reactions to vaccinations and blood transfusions. Chlorpheniramine can help treat mast cell tumors, which are growths made of histamine, the substance that causes allergic reactions. The recommended dose by veterinarians is usually three tablets a day.
Dogs can have similar reactions to seasonal allergies as humans.
Clemastine fumarate is also recommended as an antihistamine for dogs. It is one of the most effective antihistamines for dogs suffering from itchy skin. Clemastine fumarate is a relatively expensive antihistamine, but many dog owners choose it not only for its effectiveness, but also because it is usually only given twice a day, less frequently than most other canine antihistamines.
Chlorpheniramine is a particularly effective antihistamine when a dog has an acute allergic reaction.
Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine that tends to be effective in treating itchy skin. It is also useful in the treatment of acute allergic reactions to stings, stings, and vaccinations. The dose depends on each dog and should be recommended by a veterinarian. Dog owners often like to treat their pets with hydroxyzine because of its availability in small pills that are easy to administer to canine patients.
Omega-3 fatty acids can increase the effectiveness of dog antihistamines, which are sometimes prescribed for allergies.
The effectiveness of antihistamine for dogs is believed to be increased when supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids. These substances help reduce the inflammation that occurs in allergic reactions. Omega-3 fatty acids combined with antihistamines are particularly effective in treating itchy skin.
Side effects of antihistamines include sedation and reduced nausea. Veterinarians sometimes recommend antihistamines for dogs that are seasick or need tranquilizers. Other side effects of antihistamines can include seizures, diarrhea, and liver damage. Since antihistamines are strong medications, it is best to consult a veterinarian before giving them to dogs.