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Trazodone for Dogs

Trazodone for Dogs

What is trazodone? | What is trazodone used for? | How much trazodone can I give my dog?

Updated on February 03, 2023
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Reviewed by Dr. Whitney Miller
DVM, MBA, DACVPM
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Dogs can be just as unique and complex as people—that’s what makes them so relatable. Just like us, dogs crave affection, community, fun and safety. And just like us, dogs can experience anxiety. For many dogs, anxious feelings are circumstantial and fleeting, arising from situations like trips to the vet or being left home alone. Other dogs may experience generalized anxiety or have multiple anxiety triggers. While some anxious pups do just fine with over-the-counter dog calming aids, certain situations may require a stronger medical interventionand your veterinarian may prescribe trazodone.

What is trazodone?

Trazodone is a selective serotonin antagonist reuptake inhibitor—otherwise known as SARI. Serotonin is a chemical messenger in the brain—or a neurotransmitter—that influences our moods and emotions. It can also affect certain aspects of our physiology, such as digestion and sleep. More serotonin circulating in the brain typically leads to less anxiety and depression and more feelings of happiness and wellbeing. Serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitors work by blocking one of the serotonin receptors in the brain that controls how much is released. When the brain thinks it isn’t getting enough serotonin, it produces more of the neurotransmitter and creates more positive feelings. This is why SARIs like trazodone can be so effective at treating anxiety and depression. Because they have the same serotonin hormone that we do, trazodone for dogs can be just as useful for them as it is for us.

Trazodone for dogs comes in the form of a trazodone pill that is given orally. If your vet decides that this medication is the right fit for your dog, you can find trazodone 50 mg or 100 mg tablets in Petco’s pet pharmacy. Don’t forget that at Petco, we also carry many different dog vitamins and supplements to support your pet’s overall wellness.

Shop Trazodone

What is trazodone used for?

One of the qualities that makes trazodone for dogs so effective is its versatility. Trazodone can address a range of primary symptoms in dogs—including anxiety, stress, hyperactivity and sleeplessness. It can help curtail secondary behavioral issues such as destructive chewing and accidents in the house. And trazodone can be given intermittently for situational anxiety—for instance, during car rides or trips to the vet—or regularly to treat a generalized anxiety disorder or ongoing issue.

Trazodone side effects in dogs tend to be mild, and the short-acting nature of this medication means that it does not stay in a dog’s body for a long time. The versatile nature of trazodone for dogs means it may be appropriate for a wide range of symptoms and circumstances, including:

Vet visits

A vet’s office can be an unsettling place for pups. Many sounds, smells and unfamiliar sights can fill dogs with anxiety. Trazodone can be used to calm your dog down if vet visits are a source of frequent stress.

Post-surgery

There’s no good way to explain surgery to your dog. Even after the procedure is done and your dog is back home, they may show signs of fear or anxiety after a surgical procedure—they may even pick at their stitches. Trazodone can help dogs remain calm after surgery, allowing their bodies to heal properly.

Shelter stress

Staying in an animal shelter may be the first step toward finding a forever home, but animal shelters can be intensely stressful for dogs. Research has shown that dogs given trazodone while at animal shelters can have a much easier time adjusting—which may lead to a quicker adoption as a result.

Abuse recovery

Dogs who have lived through abuse can be more likely to develop anxiety. Trazodone for dogs who have been rescued from these circumstances can help them adjust to a new life of love and security.

Separation anxiety

Some dogs get extremely nervous when they must be away from their pet parents. If your schedule requires that you and your dog spend time apart, trazodone can help relax your pup until you return.

Destructive behaviors

Nibbling, gnawing, chewing, pacing, scratching, barking, potty accidents and other unwanted behaviors can all be symptoms of anxiety in dogs. Trazodone for dogs doesn’t just calm your canine’s mood—it can also help reduce the destructive behaviors that may result from anxiety and stress.

Remember that anxiety does not present itself the same way in all dogs. Some pups have generalized anxiety disorders that require long-term management. Others only experience situational anxiety based on certain triggers—particularly if they have been rescued from traumatic or abusive situations. Some dogs experience depression or insomnia following the loss of a beloved human or animal family member. Others just experience short-term stress during infrequent but unavoidable activities, such as vet visits.

Trazodone for dogs may be helpful in any of these situations. However, the recommended trazodone dosage and frequency will vary on your dog’s individual issues and needs. Consult your veterinarian to determine the right treatment plan for your pup.

How much trazodone can I give my dog?

A trazodone dosage for dogs is calculated based upon their weight, size and symptoms. Typically, a trazodone pill is given every 8 to 24 hours. Trazodone is often administered in a dosage of 2.5 to 3.5 mg per lb of a dog’s weight, but don’t be surprised if your veterinarian prescribes a dose as strong as 10 to 15 mg per lb. Trazodone dosage is highly subjective—you should never give this medication to your dog without your veterinarian’s direction. However, it is unlikely that a dog will suffer serious side effects from taking trazodone—and that’s one less thing for pet parents to be anxious about.

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