Doxycycline for Puppies

Doxycycline, also called by its trademarked name Vibramycin™, is an antibiotic that is used in humans and animals. Though it is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in animals, veterinarians still commonly prescribe doxycycline to treat various diseases and infections in dogs and cats. If your vet has prescribed your puppy doxycycline, you should know how to administer the drug and be aware of the potential side effects and risks of the medication.

  1. Purpose

    • If your puppy has been diagnosed with a respiratory infection caused by bacteria, your vet may prescribe doxycycline to treat the infection. An example of a common bacterial infection of the respiratory system is kennel cough or tracheobronchitis. Vets also prescribe doxycycline for dogs that have contracted Lyme disease or another disease transmitted by ticks. Dogs suffering from urinary tract infections may also be given doxycycline. Additionally, an oral gel form of doxycycline called Doxirobe™, is used to treat dogs for dental diseases. While doxycycline is effective in fighting off bacterial infections, it is not useful in treating fungal or viral infections.

    Dosage and Use

    • Doxycycline may be given to your puppy with or without food. The average dose that vets prescribe is 2.5 mg of doxycycline for each pound your puppy weighs. Usually, you will have to administer the medication to your dog every 12 hours. However, depending on your dog's situation, the dosage and frequency may vary; you should always administer the doxycycline to your puppy according to your vet's instructions which should be noted on the prescription label. Continue to give your puppy all the medication that has been dispensed even if it is not exhibiting anymore symptoms as stopping the medication too early may cause the infection to return. While your puppy is taking doxycycline, make sure to provide it sufficient drinking water.

    Adverse Effects

    • As with all medications, doxycycline may cause your puppy to experience some side effects. Nausea and vomiting may occur in animals that have been given high doses of the medicine. Though it is rare, your puppy may also experience diarrhea or loose stools; if this is the case, contact your vet for a change of medication. Doxycycline may also cause your puppy to be photosensitive, stain its teeth or cause the development of unwanted fungi and bacteria, according to veterinarians Doctors Foster and Smith. Lastly, serious side effects may occur due to your puppy's being allergic to the medication. Symptoms to watch out for include the development of hives, scratching, swelling of the face, cold limbs, pale gums, seizures or unconsciousness. Seek veterinary help immediately if you notice an allergic reaction in your puppy.

    Safety Precautions

    • Your puppy should not use doxycycline if it has a history of being allergic to tetracyclines, the class of antibiotics that doxycycline belongs to. A dog that is experiencing the first half of its pregnancy or is nursing should not be administered doxycycline as the drug may harm the unborn by causing slow growth, skeletal changes and yellowing of teeth. In addition, tell your vet if your puppy is taking vitamins or other supplements, antacids, warfarin or insulin as they may interact with the way doxycycline works. Your puppy should not eat dairy products while taking doxycycline as dairy may reduce the efficacy of the drug.