Reaction of Zyrtec for Canines

Dogs can suffer from allergies just as humans can. If a dog is prone to excessive licking or scratching, it may have allergies. Zyrtec is the brand name for cetirizine, an antihistamine used to treat allergic reactions.

  1. Effectiveness

    • According to a study by the Cornell University Hospital for Animals, four of 22 dogs (18 percent) with atopic dermatitis, a common skin allergy, improved with cetirizine treatment.

    Dosage

    • The Cornell researchers gave dogs a dosage of 1mg/kg body weight, once per day. Zyrtec is typically sold over the counter in 10 mg tablets. At this dosage, one 10 mg pill would be sufficient for a 22-pound dog. The effectiveness of antihistamine treatments for canine allergies is unpredictable and can vary greatly between dogs.

    Side Effects

    • Of the 22 dogs in the Cornell study, two vomited after receiving cetirizine.

    Alternative Treatments

    • Canine allergies may be influenced by diet. Consider switching to a different dog food before trying medication. Other medications, such as Benadryl or a glucocorticoid, may be prescribed by a veterinarian. Consult a vet before attempting to treat your dog at home.