My dog is restless, shaking head, vomiting. Should I give Benadryl?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | unneutered | 70 lbs
My dog suddenly woke up and became restless. Started scurrying around the room, kept shaking his head, one ear looks lower than the other, he vomited once, and also keeps rubbing his snout and the sides of his face on the floor. Should I give him Benadryl to calm him down or does this sound more serious?
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on July 18th, 2019
Yes, you can try to give him some Benadryl to see if it helps to calm him. If he is 70 pounds then he needs three (3) of the human 25 mg capsules. I know it sounds like a lot but that is the correct dosage. Dogs metabolize this drug very quickly, hence the higher dose. If 30-45 minutes after you give it, he is still acting strangely, you should get him to a vet ASAP for an exam.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on February 14th, 2018
The Reactine is not an appropriate medication for dogs and is not a pain medication. It's likely the pseudiefedrina that's causing him to act like this. This is a stimulant that dogs are very sensitive to. The dose used in this product would definitely be toxic to a 15kg dog and it appears that you are already seeing signs of toxicity. Further signs of toxicity are vomiting and seizures. Considering this could be life-threatening, I recommend you take Topas to a veterinarian as soon as possible. The vet can give medication to reduce the toxicity and keep him from getting worse. For now, I do not recommend giving him any medication unless directed by your veterinarian. For more information, you can call the pet poison helpline. A link to their website is below. http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/ I hope that helps and Topas gets better soon.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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