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My dog's face is still swelling after Benadryl. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund miniature | Female | unspayed | 7 months and 4 days old | 5.5 lbs

My dachshund has swollen cheeks this morning. Went to the vet to get a Benadryl shot. We just got home and her nose is now swollen and her tear ducks or swelling. Help!

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on June 3rd, 2020

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Zoe. Poor girl. It sounds like she needs a stronger drug to treat the allergic reaction like steroids. I'd take her back into the vet immediately. Best of luck.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 7th, 2018

    Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. From the pictures it appears that her face is still swollen. I would recommend having her seen by a veterinarian as she may require something stronger than Benadryl for the reaction. If you are unable to get to the vet and she seems to be ok and the swelling resolves at home, I would just keep a close eye on her. She is likely quite sleepy from the Benadryl. I hope this helps guide you in the right direction! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

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    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 11th, 2019

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Brindi. I recommend that she sees her veterinarian today. It is worrisome that the swelling has gotten worse. Most allergic reactions will respond to Benadryl. If she is not improving, she could have an infection such as an abscess secondary to a bad tooth, an infection from a wound or even an insect bite like you mentioned. Her veterinarian will guide you based on the examination as far as treatment. I hope this information helps!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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