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Dog has hives, vomiting, diarrhea. Benadryl not working. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Female | 38 lbs

my dog has hives and I don't know what caused it. They didn't show up until yesterday but she was vomiting and had diarrhea. She has been getting children's benydryl but it's not helping. What else should I do

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on August 25th, 2017

I would take Harley into a vet immediately. It is concerning that she has been vomiting and having diarrhea, and that the Benadryl isn't helping her hives. Hives are typically caused by allergic reactions, and they can progress to swelling and difficulties breathing. Oftentimes dogs need stronger medications to stop an allergic reaction, such as steroids. Only a vet can give her the correct medicine for her symptoms. Please take her into an ER vet clinic; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website.

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