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PetDosageChart

Prednisone (Prednisone) Dosage for Dogs

Corticosteroid ⏱ Onset: 1-2 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.

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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Prednisone Dosage Chart for Dogs by Weight

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Weight Low Dose Standard Dose Max Dose Frequency
5 lbs (2.3 kg) 1mg 2.5mg 4.5mg (5mg tablet) once or twice daily (then tapered)
10 lbs (4.5 kg) 2.5mg 4.5mg (5mg tablet) 9mg (2 × 5mg) once or twice daily (then tapered)
15 lbs (6.8 kg) 3.5mg 7mg 13.5mg once or twice daily (then tapered)
20 lbs (9.1 kg) 4.5mg (5mg tablet) 9mg (2 × 5mg) 18mg once or twice daily (then tapered)
25 lbs (11.3 kg) 5.5mg (5mg tablet) 11.5mg 22.5mg once or twice daily (then tapered)
30 lbs (13.6 kg) 7mg 13.5mg 27mg once or twice daily (then tapered)
40 lbs (18.1 kg) 9mg (2 × 5mg) 18mg 36mg (7 × 5mg) once or twice daily (then tapered)
50 lbs (22.7 kg) 11.5mg 22.5mg 45.5mg (9 × 5mg) once or twice daily (then tapered)
60 lbs (27.2 kg) 13.5mg 27mg 54.5mg (11 × 5mg) once or twice daily (then tapered)
70 lbs (31.7 kg) 16mg (3 × 5mg) 31.5mg 63.5mg once or twice daily (then tapered)
80 lbs (36.3 kg) 18mg 36.5mg 72.5mg once or twice daily (then tapered)
90 lbs (40.8 kg) 20.5mg (4 × 5mg) 41mg (8 × 5mg) 81.5mg once or twice daily (then tapered)
100 lbs (45.4 kg) 22.5mg 45.5mg (9 × 5mg) 91mg (18 × 5mg) once or twice daily (then tapered)
120 lbs (54.4 kg) 27mg 54.5mg (11 × 5mg) 109mg (22 × 5mg) once or twice daily (then tapered)
150 lbs (68 kg) 34mg (7 × 5mg) 68mg 136mg (27 × 5mg) once or twice daily (then tapered)

What is Prednisone (Prednisone) used for in dogs?

allergies inflammation immune-mediated diseases Addison's disease asthma

How to give Prednisone to your dog

Give prednisone with food to reduce stomach upset. Never stop prednisone abruptly after long-term use — always taper gradually under veterinary guidance to allow your dog's adrenal glands to resume normal function. Be aware that increased thirst, urination, and appetite are expected side effects.

Available Forms

tablet, liquid

Give with Food?

Yes — give with food

Side effects of Prednisone in dogs

Common side effects

increased thirst
increased urination
increased appetite
panting
restlessness

Serious side effects

  • gastrointestinal ulceration
  • Cushing's syndrome (with prolonged use)
  • diabetes
  • immune suppression
  • muscle wasting

When to call the vet

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

  • Vomiting blood or dark/tarry stools
  • Severe lethargy or depression
  • Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
  • Signs of infection (prednisone suppresses immune system)
  • Dramatic behavior changes or aggression

Related Medications for Dogs

Antihistamine

Benadryl

Diphenhydramine

For allergies

View dosage chart
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)

Rimadyl

Carprofen

For osteoarthritis

View dosage chart
Antihistamine (second-generation)

Zyrtec

Cetirizine

For allergies

View dosage chart
NSAID / Antiplatelet

Aspirin

Acetylsalicylic Acid

For mild pain relief

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 Prednisone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does prednisone do for dogs?
Prednisone is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation and suppresses the immune system. It is used to treat a wide range of conditions including allergies, autoimmune diseases, arthritis, asthma, and certain cancers. It provides rapid relief but has significant side effects with long-term use.
Can I stop giving my dog prednisone suddenly?
No. If your dog has been on prednisone for more than a few days, you must taper the dose gradually under veterinary supervision. Abrupt discontinuation can cause a dangerous adrenal crisis because the body's natural cortisol production shuts down during steroid use and needs time to restart.
Why is my dog drinking so much water on prednisone?
Increased thirst (polydipsia) and increased urination (polyuria) are among the most common and expected side effects of prednisone. This is a normal pharmacological effect of corticosteroids. Ensure your dog always has access to fresh water, and expect more frequent bathroom breaks.
How long can a dog stay on prednisone?
Short courses (1-2 weeks) are common and generally well-tolerated. Long-term use (months) is sometimes necessary for chronic conditions but increases the risk of serious side effects like Cushing's syndrome, diabetes, and immune suppression. Your vet will use the lowest effective dose and may try alternate-day dosing for long-term therapy.

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