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How long does it take for Benadryl to relax a dog?

If using Benadryl as a mild sedative for motion sickness or any sort of thunderstorm or travel anxiety, it's best to think ahead so you can plan out when you give it to your doggo. It will usually take 30 minutes for Benadryl to take full effect, and you want your pup calm and anxious-free.



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According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, the standard dose for Benadryl® is 2–4 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, or 0.9–1.8 milligrams (mg) of Benadryl® per pound. Therefore, a simple and practical dose is 1 mg of Benadryl® per pound of your dog's weight, given two to three times a day.

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Common side effects associated with using Benadryl for dogs include:
  • Drowsiness.
  • Dry mouth.
  • Urinary retention.
  • Hypersalivation.
  • Increased heart rate.
  • Rapid breathing.


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Yes, Benadryl is an antihistamine that causes drowsiness in most people. Some people use Benadryl for this side effect if they have trouble sleeping (insomnia), but this is not recommended long-term. The drowsy or sedation effect typically lasts about 8 hours, but may persist into the next day if taken at night.

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When administering Benadryl to dogs, the general recommendation is to give 2 to 4 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, or 0.9 to 1.8 milligrams per pound of your dog's body weight 1-2 times per day. The effects of the medication typically last for around 6-8 hours.

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