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PetDosageChart

Apoquel (Oclacitinib) Dosage for Dogs

Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor ⏱ Onset: 4 hours ⏳ Duration: 12-24 hours

This dosage information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet. Dosages may vary based on your pet's health conditions, other medications, and individual factors.

Dosage Calculator

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Apoquel Dosage Chart for Dogs by Weight

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Weight Low Dose Standard Dose Max Dose Frequency
5 lbs (2.3 kg) 1mg 1.5mg 1.5mg twice daily for 14 days, then once daily
10 lbs (4.5 kg) 2mg 2.5mg 2.5mg twice daily for 14 days, then once daily
15 lbs (6.8 kg) 2.5mg 4mg (3.6mg tablet) 4mg (3.6mg tablet) twice daily for 14 days, then once daily
20 lbs (9.1 kg) 3.5mg (3.6mg tablet) 5.5mg 5.5mg twice daily for 14 days, then once daily
25 lbs (11.3 kg) 4.5mg 7mg (2 × 3.6mg) 7mg (2 × 3.6mg) twice daily for 14 days, then once daily
30 lbs (13.6 kg) 5.5mg 8mg (2 × 3.6mg) 8mg (2 × 3.6mg) twice daily for 14 days, then once daily
40 lbs (18.1 kg) 7mg (2 × 3.6mg) 11mg (3 × 3.6mg) 11mg (3 × 3.6mg) twice daily for 14 days, then once daily
50 lbs (22.7 kg) 9mg 13.5mg (4 × 3.6mg) 13.5mg (4 × 3.6mg) twice daily for 14 days, then once daily
60 lbs (27.2 kg) 11mg (3 × 3.6mg) 16.5mg 16.5mg twice daily for 14 days, then once daily
70 lbs (31.7 kg) 12.5mg 19mg 19mg twice daily for 14 days, then once daily
80 lbs (36.3 kg) 14.5mg (4 × 3.6mg) 22mg (6 × 3.6mg) 22mg (6 × 3.6mg) twice daily for 14 days, then once daily
90 lbs (40.8 kg) 16.5mg 24.5mg (7 × 3.6mg) 24.5mg (7 × 3.6mg) twice daily for 14 days, then once daily
100 lbs (45.4 kg) 18mg (5 × 3.6mg) 27mg 27mg twice daily for 14 days, then once daily
120 lbs (54.4 kg) 22mg (6 × 3.6mg) 32.5mg (9 × 3.6mg) 32.5mg (9 × 3.6mg) twice daily for 14 days, then once daily
150 lbs (68 kg) 27mg 41mg 41mg twice daily for 14 days, then once daily

What is Apoquel (Oclacitinib) used for in dogs?

atopic dermatitis allergic itching skin allergies

How to give Apoquel to your dog

Apoquel can be given with or without food. For the first 14 days, give twice daily to achieve faster itch control, then reduce to once daily for maintenance. Do not break or split tablets. Apoquel is prescription-only — your vet will determine the appropriate tablet size based on your dog's weight.

Available Forms

tablet

Give with Food?

No — can be given without food

Side effects of Apoquel in dogs

Common side effects

vomiting
diarrhea
decreased appetite
lethargy

Serious side effects

  • increased susceptibility to infections
  • skin lumps or masses
  • bone marrow suppression
  • increased risk of neoplasia with long-term use

When to call the vet

Call your vet immediately if your dog shows any of these signs:

  • New lumps or skin masses develop
  • Signs of infection (fever, lethargy, coughing)
  • Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
  • Severe lethargy or appetite loss
  • Itching does not improve within 2 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Apoquel work?
Apoquel starts reducing itching within 4 hours and provides significant relief within 24 hours. It is one of the fastest-acting treatments for allergic itch in dogs. Full effectiveness is typically seen after the initial 14-day twice-daily loading period.
Can my dog take Apoquel long-term?
Yes, Apoquel is approved for long-term daily use in dogs. However, long-term use requires regular veterinary monitoring because it suppresses parts of the immune system, which may increase susceptibility to infections and potentially certain types of cancer. Your vet will recommend periodic blood work.
Is Apoquel a steroid?
No, Apoquel is not a steroid. It is a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor, which works differently from corticosteroids. It specifically targets the itch and inflammation pathways without the common steroid side effects like increased thirst, urination, and appetite.
Can I give my dog Apoquel and Benadryl together?
Yes, Apoquel and Benadryl can generally be used together safely, as they work through different mechanisms. Some veterinarians recommend this combination for severe allergy flare-ups. However, always consult your vet before combining medications.