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What can I give my dog for motion sickness?

Medically reviewed by Leigh Ann Anderson, PharmD. Last updated on May 10, 2023.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Common over-the-counter medicines your veterinarian might recommend to help prevent motion sickness in your dog include: diphenhydramine (Benadryl), meclizine (Bonine), or dimenhydrinate (Dramamine). Doses are based on your dogs weight, so ask your vet for a recommendation.

Motion sickness in dogs

Most dogs love to go for a ride in the car. But like us humans, some dogs experience motion sickness. Longer trips may be more difficult than shorter ones on your canine friend. Cars, planes, and boats can all lead to symptoms. Trips on a boat can trigger sea sickness especially in puppies. Cats can suffer from motion sickness, too.

Pets with motion sickness may begin drooling, act nauseated or develop vomiting or diarrhea. You may need to reconsider bringing your pet on trips if they are prone to motion sickness.

Some vets might recommend these human over-the-counter (OTC) products, but at specific doses used only in dogs. Do not use these products in dogs with glaucoma, prostate gland enlargement, and certain stomach, thyroid, seizure, or heart disorders.

  • diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
  • meclizine (Bonine)
  • dimenhydrinate (Dramamine)

Dog doses are based on their weight, so ask your vet if these products are appropriate for your 4-legged friend. These drugs may cause drowsiness or hyperactivity, too, so beware about dog safety in the car, especially if your friend is fond of hanging out the window.

OTC antihistamines like Benadryl may contain other ingredients such as decongestants that are not safe for dogs. Read the product label carefully to be sure it only contains the antihistamine.

Prescription products like Cerenia (maropitant citrate) are also available for motion sickness in dogs, and your vet may prefer this product specifically for dogs.

Always consult with your veterinarian about any medicine for your dog or other pet. Human prescription drugs and over-the-counter (OTC) medicine may not be safe for your pet.

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Benadryl is quickly absorbed after oral administration and it starts to work within 30 minutes with peak effects reached within one to two hours. The effects of Benadryl last from four to six hours. Benadryl in the injectable form has a rapid onset of action. You will know when Benadryl starts to work because your allergy symptoms, such as congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes, or a skin rash, will start to feel better. Continue reading

One of the most common side effects with Benadryl is drowsiness, but in some people it can have the opposite effect, known as paradoxical excitation. Instead of feeling sleepy,
you may experience excitation, agitation or insomnia (trouble sleeping), which might make your anxiety symptoms feel worse. This may be more common in young children. Continue reading

Benadryl (generic name: diphenhydramine) is an antihistamine that causes sleepiness in most people. Some people use Benadryl to help with sleep or insomnia, but this should only be for short-term use. Do not use Benadryl to make a child sleepy. Contact your doctor if you or your child are having trouble with sleep. Continue reading

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