Terbinafine Dosage For Dogs: Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

A standard dosage of terbinafine for dogs to treat skin or ringworm infections ranges from approximately 20 to 40 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) of body weight, administered orally once daily. However, the dosage can be adjusted based on the severity of the infection.

Finding the proper treatment becomes a priority when our furry companions suffer from fungal infections like ringworm or dermatophytosis.

Terbinafine, a medication commonly used to combat fungal infections in humans, has found its way into veterinary medicine for treating similar dog conditions.

However, determining the correct dosage for our canine friends is crucial to ensure their safety and effective recovery.

In this blog post, we delve into the nuances of terbinafine dosage for dogs, shedding light on the considerations and guidelines pet owners should be aware of when administering this medication to their beloved pets.

Terbinafine Dosage For Dogs

The terbinafine dosage for dogs can vary depending on the dog’s weight, the condition being treated, and the veterinarian’s recommendation. Terbinafine is commonly used in veterinary medicine to treat fungal infections, particularly dermatophytosis (ringworm).

A typical dosage range for terbinafine in dogs is approximately 5 to 15 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) of body weight, administered orally once daily. However, it’s essential to follow the vet’s instructions. They will determine the appropriate dosage based on the dog’s needs and health status.

It’s crucial to complete the entire course of treatment as the veterinarian prescribes, even if the dog’s symptoms improve before the treatment is finished. Abruptly stopping terbinafine could lead to a recurrence of the fungal infection.

As with any medication, monitoring your puppy for any potential side effects and promptly reporting any concerns to the veterinarian is essential. Common side effects of terbinafine in dogs may include gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, and, in rare cases, liver toxicity.

Terbinafine Dosage Chart For Dogs

Dog’s Weight (kg)	Dog’s Weight (lbs)	Lower Dosage (20 mg/kg)	Higher Dosage (40 mg/kg)
5	11	100 mg	200 mg
10	22	200 mg	400 mg
15	33	300 mg	600 mg
20	44	400 mg	800 mg
25	55	500 mg	1000 mg
30	66	600 mg	1200 mg
35	77	700 mg	1400 mg
40	88	800 mg	1600 mg

Uses

Treating dermatophytosis (ringworm), a contagious fungal infection affecting the skin, hair, and nails.
Addressing various fungal skin infections in dogs, including yeast infections and those caused by Microsporum and Trichophyton species.
Alleviating paw pad infections caused by fungi, relieving discomfort and promoting healing.
Managing fungal infections in the nail beds (onychomycosis), facilitating the growth of healthy nails.
Occasionally used as part of treatment for systemic fungal infections in dogs, under veterinary supervision.

Potential Side Effects

Gastrointestinal upset: vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite
Liver toxicity: jaundice, lethargy, changes in appetite and behavior
Allergic reactions: itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, hives
Neurological symptoms: tremors, seizures, confusion
Changes in blood cell counts: anemia, thrombocytopenia

Which Dogs Should Not Take Terbinafine

Canines with the following health issues should not take terbinafine without veterinary recommendations.

Dogs with liver disease
Dogs with known allergic reactions to terbinafine or similar medications
Pregnant or lactating dogs
Dogs with severe kidney disease
Dogs taking medications that may interact with terbinafine