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My puppy has allergies. Is Apoquel safe for dogs under 12 months?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Poodle | Male | 5 months and 4 days old | 14 lbs

HEllo. I have a french puddle , 5 months old and 11,7 lbs. he has allergies. Still don’t know were it comes from but we are trying to find it out and meanwhile his vet gave him Apoquel for at least two months. The tablets are 5,2 mg. I’m not sure if it is safe for my dog because I’m reading all other the internet that its bad it causes diharrea and nausea. And I read somewhere that is not recommended for dogs younger than 12 months. Please help me what should I do.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on December 5th, 2017

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Apoquel is a great drug for scratching. It is also very safe. There is no drug made on the planet that doesn't have some side effects. Nausea and diarrhea has been reported as a side effect, though I have only seen it very rarely. That shouldn't be a reason to not use it. I do agree with you about the age problem. It has been only labeled for use by the FDA in dogs older than 12 months. Using it in dogs younger than that is considered off label use. I recommend calling your Vet and asking if they are comfortable using apoquel in Sushi. It is up to your Vet and your comfort level. I hope this helps and I wish Sushi the best!

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