5 lb dog: Benadryl amounts by product
| Product | Usual dose for 5 lb |
|---|---|
| Diphenhydramine in mg | 5 mg (range 4.5 to 9.1 mg) |
| Adult tablet, 25 mg | ¼ tablet |
| Children's chewable, 12.5 mg | ½ chewable |
| Children's liquid, 12.5 mg per 5 mL | 2 mL |
5 lb is a toy dog, about the size of a Chihuahua or Yorkie. For dogs this small, splitting a 25 mg tablet accurately is close to impossible. Liquid lets you measure to the tenth of a millilitre, but only if it is a xylitol-free product. A vet or pharmacist can also compound a smaller tablet.
How often can a 5 lb dog have Benadryl?
Every 8 to 12 hours, so no more than 3 doses in 24 hours. If one dose doesn't seem to help, don't double the next one. Call your vet instead, because the problem may need a different medicine.
Watch for these side effects
Expect some sleepiness. Call your vet if your dog becomes very agitated, pants hard, has a racing heart, can't pee, or vomits repeatedly. Wide pupils, tremors or seizures can signal an overdose. If you see them, call ASPCA Animal Poison Control on (888) 426-4435 or go to an emergency clinic.
Always confirm the dose with your own vet, especially if your dog has a health condition or takes other medicines.
Frequently asked questions
How many mg of Benadryl can a 5 lb dog have?
About 5 mg per dose is the usual starting dose (roughly 1 mg per pound). The vet range for a 5 lb dog is 4.5 to 9.1 mg, no more often than every 8 hours.
How many 25 mg Benadryl tablets for a 5 lb dog?
Less than half a tablet (about ¼). Tablets are hard to split that small, so children's liquid (12.5 mg per 5 mL) is easier: about 2 mL.
How much liquid Benadryl for a 5 lb dog?
About 2 mL of children's diphenhydramine liquid (12.5 mg per 5 mL). Use an oral syringe and make sure the product contains no xylitol.