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PetDosageChart

Claritin (Loratadine) Dosage for Dogs

Antihistamine (second-generation) ⏱ Onset: 1-3 hours ⏳ Duration: 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.

Content reviewed by licensed veterinarians. This information is sourced from veterinary drug references including Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook and the Merck Veterinary Manual.

Dosage Calculator

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Claritin Dosage Chart for Dogs by Weight

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Weight Low Dose Standard Dose Max Dose Frequency
5 lbs (2.3 kg) 0.5mg 1mg 2.5mg once daily
10 lbs (4.5 kg) 1mg 2.5mg 4.5mg (5mg tablet) once daily
15 lbs (6.8 kg) 1.5mg 3.5mg 7mg once daily
20 lbs (9.1 kg) 2.5mg 4.5mg (5mg tablet) 9mg (2 × 5mg) once daily
25 lbs (11.3 kg) 3mg 5.5mg (5mg tablet) 11.5mg once daily
30 lbs (13.6 kg) 3.5mg 7mg 13.5mg once daily
40 lbs (18.1 kg) 4.5mg (5mg tablet) 9mg (2 × 5mg) 18mg once daily
50 lbs (22.7 kg) 5.5mg (5mg tablet) 11.5mg 22.5mg once daily
60 lbs (27.2 kg) 7mg 13.5mg 27mg once daily
70 lbs (31.7 kg) 8mg 16mg (3 × 5mg) 31.5mg once daily
80 lbs (36.3 kg) 9mg (2 × 5mg) 18mg 36.5mg once daily
90 lbs (40.8 kg) 10mg (2 × 5mg) 20.5mg (4 × 5mg) 41mg (8 × 5mg) once daily
100 lbs (45.4 kg) 11.5mg 22.5mg 45.5mg (9 × 5mg) once daily
120 lbs (54.4 kg) 13.5mg 27mg 54.5mg (11 × 5mg) once daily
150 lbs (68 kg) 17mg 34mg (7 × 5mg) 68mg once daily

What is Claritin (Loratadine) used for in dogs?

allergies itching atopic dermatitis mast cell tumors (adjunct)

How to give Claritin to your dog

Use plain loratadine (Claritin) only — do NOT use Claritin-D, which contains pseudoephedrine, a decongestant toxic to dogs. Can be given with or without food. Claritin causes less drowsiness than first-generation antihistamines like Benadryl.

Available Forms

tablet, liquid

Give with Food?

No — can be given without food

Side effects of Claritin in dogs

Common side effects

mild sedation
dry mouth
urinary retention

Serious side effects

  • excessive sedation
  • rapid heartbeat
  • hypersensitivity reaction

When to call the vet

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

  • Allergic symptoms worsen or do not improve
  • Excessive drowsiness or lethargy
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Vomiting or diarrhea

Related Medications for Dogs

Antihistamine (second-generation)

Zyrtec

Cetirizine

For allergies

View dosage chart
Antihistamine (first-generation)

Atarax

Hydroxyzine

For allergies

View dosage chart
Antihistamine

Benadryl

Diphenhydramine

For allergies

View dosage chart
First-generation antihistamine

Chlor-Trimeton

Chlorpheniramine

For Allergies

View dosage chart

Sources & References

The dosage information on this page is compiled from the following veterinary and pharmaceutical references:

  • Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook — the standard veterinary pharmacology reference used by veterinarians worldwide.
  • Merck Veterinary Manual — a trusted, peer-reviewed resource for veterinary professionals and pet owners.
  • DailyMed (FDA Drug Labels) — official FDA-approved drug labeling and prescribing information for Loratadine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I give my dog Claritin?
Yes, plain Claritin (loratadine) is generally considered safe for dogs for allergy relief. However, you must never use Claritin-D, which contains pseudoephedrine — this decongestant is toxic to dogs. Always consult your veterinarian for the correct dose.
How much Claritin can I give my dog?
The typical dose is 0.5 mg per kilogram of body weight, given once daily. Small dogs (under 15 lbs) usually get half of a 5 mg tablet, medium dogs get one 5 mg tablet, and large dogs get one 10 mg tablet daily.
Is Claritin better than Benadryl for dogs?
Claritin and Benadryl work differently. Claritin (second-generation) causes less drowsiness and lasts 24 hours, requiring only once-daily dosing. Benadryl (first-generation) works faster but causes more sedation and needs to be given 2-3 times daily. Your vet can recommend which is better for your dog's situation.
How long does it take Claritin to work in dogs?
Claritin typically starts working within 1-3 hours. For best results with chronic allergies, give it consistently once daily. Some dogs may need several days of consistent dosing to see full benefit.

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