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Can I safely stop my dog's prednisone after back pain recovery?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | spayed | 10 lbs

Can I stop predinisone for my dog after 5mg a day for 2 days and then 2.5mg a day for 2 days more? The vet said to give it to her 8 months ago for back pain after a bad landing when she jumped off a bed, 5mg for 5 days and half for other 5 days. It happened again, but the pain was less severe, she's all better now, can I stop the prednisone after these 4 days (5mg 2 days and 2.5mg 2 days)?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 11th, 2018

Hello, prednisone is a steroid that although beneficial for some things it also has alot of side effects and needs to be used carefully and under the instructions from your veterinarian. The dose Kitkat is getting now is higher than most other doses prednisone is used for. It should be fine to stop the medication now after today but monitor her drinking habits and overall activity. If she seems lethargic, not drinking or drinking too much, not eating, then she needs to be seen by her veterinarian immediately. Back injuries can recur, so in the future, before starting medications consult with your veterinarian first. Additionally. even though Kitkat is feeling a lot better, she needs to continue strict rest for at least 2 weeks to allow her back to heal. That is no running, jumping, or rough playing with other dogs. Hope this helps and best of luck.

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