When your dog is anxious, restless, or recovering from surgery, Trazodone can be a game-changer. But when it comes to dosage—especially a 100mg Trazodone tablet—pet owners often have questions. How much is safe? How do you calculate the right amount for your dog’s weight? Let’s break it all down in this guide to Trazodone dosage for dogs, complete with a chart and calculator tips specific to the USA.
What Is Trazodone and Why Is It Used for Dogs?
Trazodone is a prescription medication primarily used to treat depression and anxiety in humans. However, veterinarians frequently prescribe it off-label to dogs for a variety of reasons:
- Separation anxiety
- Noise phobias (like thunderstorms or fireworks)
- Post-surgical calming
- Travel-related stress
- Aggression triggered by fear
It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which has a calming, sedative effect on the nervous system.
Is 100mg Trazodone Safe for Dogs?
Yes, but dosage depends on your dog’s weight and health condition. A 100mg tablet may be appropriate for medium to large dogs, but it can be too much for smaller breeds unless split into halves or quarters.
Always consult your vet before administering Trazodone. Self-medicating your dog—even with good intentions—can lead to serious side effects.
Trazodone Dosage Guidelines for Dogs (by Weight)
Veterinarians typically prescribe Trazodone at 2.5 to 7 mg per pound of body weight. Here’s a general Trazodone dosage chart using 100mg tablets:
Trazodone 100mg Dosage Chart for Dogs
| Dog Weight (lbs) | Trazodone Dosage Range | Approximate Tablet Dose |
|---|---|---|
| 10 lbs | 25–70 mg | ¼ to ¾ tablet |
| 20 lbs | 50–140 mg | ½ to 1½ tablets |
| 30 lbs | 75–210 mg | ¾ to 2 tablets |
| 40 lbs | 100–280 mg | 1 to 2¾ tablets |
| 50 lbs | 125–350 mg | 1¼ to 3½ tablets |
| 60 lbs | 150–420 mg | 1½ to 4¼ tablets |
| 70+ lbs | 175–490+ mg | 1¾ to 5 tablets |
Note: Dosages vary by individual case. Always follow your veterinarian’s guidance.
Using a Trazodone Dosage Calculator for Dogs
Need a quick way to estimate the correct dose? Use a Trazodone dosage calculator specifically designed for dogs. These tools allow you to input:
- Your dog’s weight in pounds or kilograms
- Desired dosage per pound (e.g., 2.5 mg/lb or 5 mg/lb)
Many vet clinics and pet medication sites in the USA offer free, easy-to-use online calculators. Just remember: calculators are for guidance only—final decisions should come from your vet.
How to Administer Trazodone Safely
Once you know the correct dosage, here are tips for safe administration:
- Split tablets if needed: A pill cutter helps when you need to give half or quarter doses.
- Give with food: This reduces the risk of stomach upset.
- Use treats or pill pockets: Trazodone can have a bitter taste, so masking it helps.
- Monitor your dog: Watch for signs of drowsiness, drooling, or disorientation.
Common Side Effects of Trazodone in Dogs
While generally well-tolerated, Trazodone can sometimes cause:
- Sedation or lethargy
- Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting or diarrhea)
- Agitation or restlessness
- Panting
- Disorientation
If your dog shows severe symptoms—such as collapse, seizures, or extreme hyperactivity—contact your vet or an emergency animal hospital immediately.
Can You Give Trazodone Long-Term?
Yes, in some cases, vets prescribe Trazodone for ongoing anxiety or behavioral therapy. However, it’s most commonly used short-term, especially around stressful events like:
- Vet visits
- Travel
- Surgery recovery
- Fireworks holidays
If used long-term, your vet may adjust the dosage or combine it with behavior modification therapy or other medications.
Precautions & When to Avoid Trazodone
Avoid or use extreme caution with Trazodone in dogs that have:
- Liver or kidney disease
- Heart conditions
- Seizure disorders
- Are taking other serotonergic drugs
Also, Trazodone should not be mixed with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or certain antidepressants without medical supervision.
Final Thoughts: Consult Your Vet Before Giving Trazodone
Trazodone can be a safe and effective way to ease your dog’s anxiety—but only when used correctly. A 100mg tablet may be just right for some dogs, but dangerous for others. Always use a veterinarian-approved dosage, and don’t rely solely on charts or calculators for decisions.
Abraham Finley is a health writer passionate about providing clear, reliable information on Trazodone and mental health. He created TrazodoneSUC.com to help readers make informed decisions about their well-being.