Clindamycin Dosage For Dogs: Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

The ideal dosage of Clindamycin for dogs to treat infected wounds, abscesses, and dental infections is 11 mg/kg (5 mg/lb) every 12 hours, or 22 mg/kg (10 mg/lb) every 24 hours orally. However, the dosage for treating other health conditions can vary depending on your pet’s health condition and the severity of the illness.

When our furry companions fall ill, it’s natural to seek out the best possible care to ensure their speedy recovery. Clindamycin, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, is commonly prescribed by veterinarians to treat various bacterial infections in dogs.

However, determining the correct dosage for our canine friends can be daunting without proper guidance.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the nuances of Clindamycin dosage for dogs, providing pet owners with the knowledge they need to effectively and safely administer this crucial medication to their beloved pets.

Clindamycin Dosage For Dogs

The recommended dosage of clindamycin for dogs depends on their weight and the condition being treated. Typically, the dosage ranges from 11 mg/kg (5 mg/lb) of the dog’s body weight every 12 hours or 22 mg/kg (10 mg/lb) every 24 hours when administered orally.

However, it’s essential to follow your veterinarian’s prescription precisely, as they’ll consider factors like the dog’s health status and the specific infection being treated. Always consult a vet before administering any medication to your pet.

Clindamycin Dosage Chart For Dogs By Weight

Weight of Dog (kg)	Weight of Dog (lbs)	Clindamycin Dosage (11 mg/kg every 12 hours)	Clindamycin Dosage (22 mg/kg every 24 hours)
2.3 kg	5 lbs	25 mg every 12 hours	50 mg every 24 hours
4.5 kg	10 lbs	50 mg every 12 hours	100 mg every 24 hours
6.8 kg	15 lbs	75 mg every 12 hours	150 mg every 24 hours
9.1 kg	20 lbs	100 mg every 12 hours	200 mg every 24 hours
11.3 kg	25 lbs	125 mg every 12 hours	250 mg every 24 hours
13.6 kg	30 lbs	150 mg every 12 hours	300 mg every 24 hours
15.9 kg	35 lbs	175 mg every 12 hours	350 mg every 24 hours
18.2 kg	40 lbs	200 mg every 12 hours	400 mg every 24 hours
20.5 kg	45 lbs	225 mg every 12 hours	450 mg every 24 hours
22.7 kg	50 lbs	250 mg every 12 hours	500 mg every 24 hours

The above Antirobe®, Cleocin® Clindamycin dosage chart for dogs by weight is provided for educational purposes only and should not substitute for veterinary advice. Always start with the minimum dose until your veterinarian prescribes an increase in dosage.

Clindamycin Uses in Dogs

Skin Infections: Treats pyoderma, folliculitis, and cellulitis.
Dental Infections: Addresses periodontal disease and dental abscesses.
Bone Infections: Targets osteomyelitis caused by bacteria.
Respiratory Infections: Effective against pneumonia and bronchitis.
Soft Tissue Infections: Treats abscesses and infected wounds.
Toxoplasmosis: May be used in certain cases.

Clindamycin Side Effects in Dogs

Gastrointestinal Upset: Vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite are common.
Allergic Reactions: Dogs may experience itching, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.
Liver Toxicity: Rarely, clindamycin can cause liver damage, leading to jaundice and abnormal liver function.
Blood Disorders: Rare cases of decreased white blood cell count (neutropenia) or decreased platelet count (thrombocytopenia) have been reported.
Esophageal Irritation: If the medication is not given with food or water, it may cause irritation to the esophagus.
Overgrowth of Non-Susceptible Bacteria: Prolonged use can lead to the overgrowth of bacteria not susceptible to clindamycin, potentially causing secondary infections.
Gastrointestinal Inflammation: In severe cases, clindamycin can cause inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to colitis or enteritis.

Which Dogs Should Not Take Clindamycin.

Canines with the following health issues should not take Clindamycin Antirobe®, Cleocin® without veterinary recommendations.

Canines with a history of allergic reactions to clindamycin or other antibiotics in the lincosamide class.
Dogs with a history of severe gastrointestinal issues or inflammatory bowel disease, as clindamycin can exacerbate these conditions.
Puppies with liver disease or dysfunction, as clindamycin can potentially worsen liver function.
Pregnant or nursing dogs, unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks and under the guidance of a veterinarian.
Dogs with a known sensitivity to any of the inactive ingredients in clindamycin formulations.

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