100mg Trazodone For Dogs Dosage Chart – Does your dog have trouble with fireworks or thunderstorms? Or does traveling by car cause terrible anxiety? Phobias and fears are more common in dogs than you might think. As much as we can do to comfort them with management and support, occasionally, pharmaceutical intervention can be a great tool in the mix to relieve this stress. Your veterinarian can offer you a few different medication options, and one of them is trazodone. However, for mild to moderate anxiety, natural possibilities like BARK&SPARK Advanced Calming Hemp Treats can provide relief. Read on to learn more about trazodone for dogs and whether it might be the right medication for you.
Table of Contents
What Is Trazodone for Dogs?
Trazodone is a medication commonly used in dogs to treat anxiety and stress. It acts as a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI), increasing serotonin levels in the brain to alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation. It’s often prescribed for separation anxiety, fear of loud noises, and anxiety related to veterinary visits or travel.
How Does Trazodone Work In Dogs?
The way trazodone works in dogs is thought to be like it works in humans: by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, which increases serotonin levels in the nerve synapses in the brain, and by blocking serotonin receptors. Serotonin has been dubbed the “feel-good hormone,” and it plays a vital role in decreasing anxiety and depression.
Trazodone belongs to the class of medicines identified as serotonin receptor antagonists and reuptake inhibitors (SARIs). These medications are mainly used for their anxiolytic or hypnotic effect, although they also have antidepressant properties at higher dosages (although these dosages may cause too much sedation).
Is Trazodone Safe For Dogs?
Most dogs tolerate trazodone well; side effects can be minimized by starting with a small dose and slowly increasing it.
The most common side effects are:
- diarrhea
- increased hunger
- sedation
- vomiting
In some dogs, trazodone may have the opposite effect to the one intended: it can cause hyperactivity or behavioral disinhibition (impulsive behaviors that are out of character for your dog). If this happens, then talk to your vet immediately. Rarely, trazodone may cause liver damage.
Trazodone is usually used in combination with other medications, such as fluoxetine, clomipramine, melatonin, or benzodiazepines. This may increase the risk of side effects such as serotonin syndrome, and you should be alert for symptoms such as:
- agitation
- anxiety
- confusion
- diarrhea
- fever
- hyperactivity
- increased heart rate
- muscle tremors or twitching
- nausea and vomiting
- tiredness
How Is Trazodone Given?
Trazodone is usually given to dogs daily rather than used on an as-needed basis to control anxiety that may happen only occasionally, such as during vet visits or in response to certain noises or visitors.
Giving trazodone with food makes it easier to provide the medicine to your dog and may also increase its effectiveness, although it may take a bit longer to work. It may also help with side effects such as nausea.
What Is The Dosage Of Trazodone For Dogs By Weight?
The dosage of trazodone varies depending on what it is being used for. Do not attempt to give trazodone to your dog without first consulting with your vet. Some dogs may be more sensitive than others to its effects.
The initial dose of trazodone should be small and then gradually increased depending on how well your dog tolerates it.
The following table gives the initial dosage for dogs, which may be slowly increased after 3 to 5 days to reach the target dose, depending on how well your dog tolerates it.
Initial and Target Dosage by Weight of Trazodone for Dogs
| Dog’s weight | Initial Dosage | Target Dosage |
| Less than 22lb (10kg) | 25mg every 8 to 24 hours | 50mg every 8 to 24 hours |
| 22-44lb (10-20kg) | 50mg every 12 to 24 hours | 100mg every 8 to 24 hours |
| Over 44lb (20kg) | 100mg every 12 to 24 hours | 200mg every 8 to 24 hours |
| 44-88lb (20-40kg) | ||
| Over 88lb (40kg) | 200-300mg every 8 to 24 hours |
Frequently Asked Questions
How Fast Does Trazodone Take Effect In Dogs?
Trazodone for dogs should start working within 1-2 hours after use for short-term anxiety or phobia relief. When used for long-term anxiety treatment, it may take 2-3 weeks to see significant effects.
How Long Does Trazodone Last In Dogs?
The effects of trazodone in dogs may last approximately 6-24 hours. The actual duration may vary depending on the dog’s size, age, and general health. Refer to a veterinarian before giving your dog trazodone to determine the proper dosage and period of treatment.
Is It Safe To Give A Dog Trazodone Daily?
Yes, trazodone is generally recommended to be given once daily for long-term treatment of anxiety in your dog.