Dog Prednisone Dosage Calculator
The dosage chart for oral prednisone for dogs based on their weight:
| Dog’s Weight | Prednisone Dosage |
|---|---|
| 5 – 20 lbs | 1.25 mg to 5 mg |
| 20 – 40 lbs | 5 mg to 10 mg |
| 40 – 80 lbs | 10 mg to 20 mg |
| 80 – 160 lbs | 20 mg to 40 mg |
Always consult your veterinarian to determine the exact dosage for your dog, as it can vary based on their specific condition and overall health.
Prednisone dosage for different ailments in dogs
| Dog’s Weight | Allergies (mg/lb) | Inflammatory Conditions (mg/lb) | Autoimmune Diseases (mg/lb) | Adrenal Insufficiency (mg/lb) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 – 20 lbs | 0.25 – 0.5 | 0.5 – 1.0 | 1.0 – 2.0 | 0.05 – 0.18 |
| 20 – 40 lbs | 0.25 – 0.5 | 0.5 – 1.0 | 1.0 – 2.0 | 0.05 – 0.18 |
| 40 – 80 lbs | 0.25 – 0.5 | 0.5 – 1.0 | 1.0 – 2.0 | 0.05 – 0.18 |
| 80 – 160 lbs | 0.25 – 0.5 | 0.5 – 1.0 | 1.0 – 2.0 | 0.05 – 0.18 |
How to calculate the prednisone dosage for dogs
To calculate the correct prednisone dosage for your dog, follow these steps:
- Weigh Your Dog: Determine your dog’s weight in kilograms (kg). If you have the weight in pounds (lbs), you can convert it to kilograms by dividing by 2.2 (1 kg = 2.2 lbs).
- Determine the Dosage Range: The typical dosage range for prednisone in dogs is between 0.5 to 2 mg per kilogram of body weight, depending on the condition being treated.
- Calculate the Dosage:
- Mild Conditions (e.g., allergies): Use the lower end of the range (0.5 mg/kg).
- Moderate Conditions (e.g., inflammation): Use the middle of the range (1 mg/kg).
- Severe Conditions (e.g., autoimmune diseases): Use the higher end of the range (2 mg/kg).
- Example Calculation:
- If your dog weighs 20 kg and has a moderate condition:
- Dosage = 20 kg * 1 mg/kg = 20 mg per day.
- If your dog weighs 20 kg and has a moderate condition:
- Consult Your Veterinarian: Always consult your veterinarian to confirm the dosage and ensure it is appropriate for your dog’s specific condition and health status.
Important Considerations
- Tapering: Prednisone is often given in a tapering dose, starting with a higher dose and gradually decreasing it to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
- Monitoring: Watch for any side effects such as increased thirst, urination, appetite, or gastrointestinal issues, and report them to your vet.
If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!