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What can I give my dog for motion sickness?

Medically reviewed by Leigh Ann Anderson, PharmD. Last updated on April 30, 2025.

Official Answer by Drugs.com

Common over-the-counter medicines your veterinarian might recommend to help prevent motion sickness in your dog include: diphenhydramine (Benadryl), meclizine (Bonine), or dimenhydrinate (Dramamine). Doses are based on your dogs weight, so ask your vet for a recommendation.

Motion sickness in dogs

Most dogs love to go for a ride in the car. But like us humans, some dogs experience motion sickness. Longer trips may be more difficult than shorter ones on your canine friend. Cars, planes, and boats can all lead to symptoms. Trips on a boat can trigger sea sickness especially in puppies. Cats can suffer from motion sickness, too.

Pets with motion sickness may begin drooling, act nauseated or develop vomiting or diarrhea. You may need to reconsider bringing your pet on trips if they are prone to motion sickness.

Some vets might recommend these human over-the-counter (OTC) products, but at specific doses used only in dogs. Do not use these products in dogs with glaucoma, prostate gland enlargement, and certain stomach, thyroid, seizure, or heart disorders.

Dog doses are based on their weight, so ask your vet if these products are appropriate for your 4-legged friend. These drugs may cause drowsiness or hyperactivity, too, so beware about dog safety in the car, especially if your friend is fond of hanging out the window.

OTC antihistamines like Benadryl may contain other ingredients such as decongestants that are not safe for dogs. Read the product label carefully to be sure it only contains the antihistamine.

Prescription products like Cerenia (maropitant citrate) are also available for motion sickness in dogs, and your vet may prefer this product specifically for dogs.

Always consult with your veterinarian about any medicine for your dog or other pet. Human prescription drugs and over-the-counter (OTC) medicine may not be safe for your pet.

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How much Benadryl can I take? What is too much?

The maximum safe Benadryl (diphenhydramine) dose for adults is 50 to 100 mg for a single dose with a daily maximum of 300 mg in 24 hours. However, your safe Benadryl dose depends on your medical conditions, age, previous tolerance to diphenhydramine, other medications you take, weight and body size, what condition you are using Benadryl for.

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What is the max dose of diphenhydramine for adults?

The maximum oral dose of diphenhydramine for adults is generally reported as 50 to 100 mg for a single dose or no more than 300 mg in 24 hours, but this can vary depending on what condition diphenhydramine is being used for, the salt of diphenhydramine used (there are two salts available in the US diphenhydramine citrate and diphenhydramine chloride), the age of the person, how much diphenhydramine they have tolerated before, and if they are on any interacting medications. Taking too much diphenhydramine can be fatal.

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Which antihistamines are safe for dogs?

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), you can give the antihistamine Benadryl (diphenhydramine) to your dog, but you should always check with your vet first. Continue reading

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