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PetDosageChart

Desyrel (Trazodone) Dosage for Dogs

Serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI) ⏱ Onset: 1-2 hours ⏳ Duration: 4-8 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.

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Desyrel Dosage Chart for Dogs by Weight

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Weight Low Dose Standard Dose Max Dose Frequency
5 lbs (2.3 kg) 4.5mg 11.5mg 23mg every 8-24 hours
10 lbs (4.5 kg) 9mg 22.5mg 45mg (50mg tablet) every 8-24 hours
15 lbs (6.8 kg) 13.5mg 34mg 68mg every 8-24 hours
20 lbs (9.1 kg) 18mg 45.5mg (50mg tablet) 91mg (2 × 50mg) every 8-24 hours
25 lbs (11.3 kg) 22.5mg 56.5mg (50mg tablet) 113mg every 8-24 hours
30 lbs (13.6 kg) 27mg 68mg 136mg every 8-24 hours
40 lbs (18.1 kg) 36mg 90.5mg (2 × 50mg) 181mg every 8-24 hours
50 lbs (22.7 kg) 45.5mg (50mg tablet) 113.5mg 227mg every 8-24 hours
60 lbs (27.2 kg) 54.5mg (50mg tablet) 136mg 272mg every 8-24 hours
70 lbs (31.7 kg) 63.5mg 158.5mg (3 × 50mg) 317mg every 8-24 hours
80 lbs (36.3 kg) 72.5mg 181.5mg 363mg every 8-24 hours
90 lbs (40.8 kg) 81.5mg 204mg (4 × 50mg) 408mg (8 × 50mg) every 8-24 hours
100 lbs (45.4 kg) 91mg (2 × 50mg) 227mg 454mg (9 × 50mg) every 8-24 hours
120 lbs (54.4 kg) 109mg (2 × 50mg) 272mg 544mg (11 × 50mg) every 8-24 hours
150 lbs (68 kg) 136mg 340mg (7 × 50mg) 680mg every 8-24 hours

What is Desyrel (Trazodone) used for in dogs?

anxiety noise phobia post-surgery sedation separation anxiety veterinary visit anxiety

How to give Desyrel to your dog

Trazodone can be given with or without food, but giving with food may reduce nausea. For event-based anxiety (thunderstorms, vet visits), give 1-2 hours before the anticipated event. Do not abruptly stop if your dog has been on trazodone for more than a few weeks — taper gradually under veterinary guidance.

Available Forms

tablet

Give with Food?

Yes — give with food

Side effects of Desyrel in dogs

Common side effects

sedation
lethargy
gastrointestinal upset
panting
restlessness

Serious side effects

  • serotonin syndrome
  • priapism
  • severe aggression
  • cardiac arrhythmias

When to call the vet

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

  • Tremors or seizures
  • Severe agitation or aggression
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Collapse or extreme weakness
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat

Related Medications for Dogs

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)

Prozac

Fluoxetine

For Separation anxiety

View dosage chart
ACE inhibitor (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor)

Vasotec

Enalapril

For Congestive heart failure

View dosage chart
Serotonin (5-HT3) receptor antagonist antiemetic

Zofran

Ondansetron

For Nausea and vomiting

View dosage chart
Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor

Apoquel

Oclacitinib

For atopic dermatitis

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 Trazodone.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does trazodone take to work in dogs?
Trazodone typically begins working within 1-2 hours of oral administration. For best results with event-based anxiety (such as thunderstorms or vet visits), give the medication at least 1-2 hours before the anticipated stressful event.
Can I give my dog trazodone every day?
Yes, trazodone can be prescribed for daily use in dogs with chronic anxiety. However, daily use should always be under veterinary supervision. If your dog has been taking trazodone daily for several weeks, do not stop abruptly — work with your vet to taper the dose gradually to avoid withdrawal effects.
What does trazodone do to a dog?
Trazodone works by increasing serotonin activity in the brain, which produces a calming, anti-anxiety effect. It helps reduce fear, anxiety, and stress-related behaviors. Most dogs become noticeably calmer and may appear mildly sedated, especially at higher doses.
How long does trazodone last in dogs?
The effects of trazodone typically last 4-8 hours in dogs, though this can vary based on the individual dog, dose, and whether it was given with food. Some dogs may experience sedation for up to 12 hours, especially with higher doses.
Can you give a dog trazodone and Benadryl together?
Trazodone and Benadryl can sometimes be used together in dogs, but only under veterinary guidance. Both medications cause sedation, so combining them can lead to excessive drowsiness. Your vet may recommend this combination for severe anxiety situations but will adjust doses accordingly.

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