Many dog parents find it challenging to give their dogs medicine. If you are one of them, fret not! We have got some tricks up our sleeves to make the process easier for you and your furry friend.
So, how to give medicine to a dog without the stress and drama? Here are some tips and tricks:
Call your dog over with a treat
How to give medicine to a dog with treats? Dogs are like us; they are more likely to be cooperative when they are in a good mood. So, call your furry friend over with a delicious treat or toy. This will help them feel more comfortable and less anxious about taking their medicine. Plus, having some treats ready to reward them for good behavior during the process is always a good idea.
Enlist the help of a friend or family member
If your dog is a bit difficult, don't despair! We will tell you how to give tablets to dogs with the help of friends and family! Enlist the help of a friend or family member to keep your pup steady while you administer the medication. This will ensure that your dog is comfortable and safe while taking their medicine. Plus, you will have an extra pair of hands to make the process smoother and less stressful.
Use a pill assist product
One option is to use a dog pill assist product, which can make the process much easier. These products are specially designed to help administer medication to dogs. Just make sure to consult with your veterinarian beforehand to ensure it's safe for your pup. A pill assist product can be an excellent option for dogs that are particularly difficult or for pet parents that prefer a more straightforward approach to medication administration.
Hide the pill in a treat
Hiding the pill in a treat is a classic trick that can work wonders when learning how to give medicine to a dog. Just take your dog's favorite treat and hide the pill inside. Peanut butter, cheese, and hot dogs are all popular options. Make sure your pup chews the treat thoroughly to ensure they actually swallow the pill. Your pup will be so focused on the delicious treat that it won't even notice the medication.
Use a pill pocket
If you're not keen on hiding the pill in a treat yourself, you can buy pre-made pill pockets. These are small, soft, and chewy treats that have a built-in pocket for the pill. They come in various flavors, so you will surely find one that your pup likes. Pill pockets are an excellent option for pet parents that want to ensure their dogs get the medication they need without any fuss.
Crush the pill
If your pup refuses to take a pill, you can try crushing it up and mixing it into their food. Just make sure to ask your vet first as not all medications can be crushed. This method is particularly useful for dogs that are picky eaters. You can mix the crushed pill with some yummy Cesar wet dog food or gravy to disguise it further.
Use a syringe
To feed medicines with syringes, you must crush the pill and mix it with a bit of water to get a water-like thin consistency. You can then use a syringe to slowly and gently administer the liquid into your pup's mouth. This technique can be particularly useful for dogs that are on medication for an extended period. You can even make it more fun by playing a little game with your pup afterwards or offering them a special treat.
Remember, patience and creativity are key players in giving medicines to dogs. Don't be afraid to try different methods until you find one that works for you and your pup.
CESAR® believes it's important to consult with your veterinarian before trying any new method of administering medication to your dog. Not all medications can be crushed or hidden in treats, and some may require a specific method of administration. When learning how to give tablets to dogs, always follow your veterinarian's instructions and dosage recommendations.
Lastly, don't forget to give your pup lots of love and praise for being a good patient. Positive reinforcement can go a long way in helping your dog feel comfortable and relaxed during medication time. With a little patience and creativity, you can make giving your dog pills a stress-free experience for both you and your furry friend.
Frequently asked questions
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How do I get my dog to swallow medicines?
To get your dog to swallow medicines, you must gently rub its nose or throat. You can also try to lightly blow on its nose to stimulate swallowing.
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Can I crush my dog’s pills in water?
Some medicines tend to lose their efficacy once mixed in water. Hence, it is imperative that you confirm with your veterinarian about the same.
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Can dogs smell medicine in their food?
Yes. Dogs can smell medicine in their food.
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What time should I give my dog medication?
You can give your dog medication during mealtimes as having food in the stomach can help alleviate common side effects of medicines on the gastrointestinal tract.
