Common Antibiotics for Dogs

Dogs, like humans, occasionally need help from antibiotics to fight infection. Consulting with a veterinarian ensures vital and correct information about using the proper drugs, giving the correct dose, maintaining the dosage for the proper length of time, and watching for allergic reactions. Also check with a veterinarian before giving antibiotics to puppies, pregnant or older dogs, and dogs who have recently given birth.

  1. Amoxicillin

    • Amoxicillin is generally fine for all purposes, but shouldn't be used in dogs who are allergic to penicillin. Dosage can run from 5 to 10 mg per pound of body weight every 8 to 12 hours. An example is Clavamox, which requires a prescription. It is used for skin and soft tissue infections and periodontal disease. Clavamox dosage is 6.25 mg per pound.

    Baytril

    • Baytril is a strong antibiotic, saved for serious infections, specifically problems with mammary glands, urinary tract, as well as skin, ear, wounds, and infections of the respiratory and gastrointestival areas. Dosage guidelines are 5.7 mg per 5 pounds of body weight. Baytril is a broad spectrum medication, possibly more effective against gram negative bacteria, as opposed to gram positive. A newer product is Baytril Otic, in the form of ear drops, effective against Staphylococci and pseudomonas. (VetInfo) Normal doses should not adversely affect the dog, but young dogs less than eight months old can suffer joint cartilage damage. Baytril requires a prescription.

    Cephalexin

    • Cephalexin goes by many names, including Keflex. This antibiotic is a general all-purpose medication for treating skin and wound infections. Dosage runs from 10 to 15 mg per pound of body weight every 8 to 12 hours. This antiobiotic can be effective against general infections, Staphylococcal, deep skin infections, and apyodermas infections. These Cephalosporins are a broad spectrum antibiotic. Cephadroxil is another canine version of this medication.

    Penicillin

    • Penicillin is generally not the first choice of antibiotics. Many infections have built an immunity to penicillin. In addition, penicillin does not work on staph infections. As a narrow spectrum antiobiotic, Penicillins M can work on gram positive bacteria. One canine version is oxacillin. Yet, generally vets do not prescribe this antibiotic when so many others are available and more effective.

    Tetracycline

    • Tetracycline is often the choice to treat Feline Infectious Anemia, Lyme's disease, tick-borne illnesses, respiratory and urinary infections, and certain skin conditions. Though a helpful antibiotic, Tetracycline tends to have some serious side effects. It can harm puppy teeth by causing permanent yellow stains. The medication is hard on the liver, and can cause urinary stones. Thus, many practictioners select another antiobiotic.