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Robitussin DM for dogs – How much is Safe?

Robitussin DM for dogs is an OTC cough and cold suppressant.

To treat many dog’s health issues and help their furry friends, dog owners and veterinarians sometimes rely on humans medication such as Robitussin (Dextromethorphan).

The FDA does not approve Robitussin (Dextromethorphan) for animal use, but veterinarians still prescribe Robitussin for dogs with mild coughs and dry kennel coughs.

So How much Robitussin for dogs?

Not all humans medicines are safe for dogs, but some help to relieve your canine health problems.

Please note that knowing the safe dosage and safe type of Robitussin for your canine is most important.

Generally, there are two types of Robitussin. Robitussin DM and Robitussin AC.

Vets usually prescribe Robitussin DM for dogs because the Robitussin AC variant contains a codeine component that is not safe for dogs.  

Robitussin for Dogs

How much Robitussin DM for Dogs?

Robitussin is an OTC cough and cold suppressant. The safe dose of Robitussin for dogs is 0.5 to 1mg/lbs or 1 to 1.5mg/kg every 8-12 hours. Do not give the medicine to puppies Under 5 pounds. The ideal and safe amount of Robitussin depends on the dog’s body weight and the illness’s severity. The only safe variety of the medicine is Robitussin DM. Do not give the AC variant.

Servedogs always recommend veterinarian advice because your vet can better decide the safe dose of any drug after a physical checkup and observing the severity of the illness.  

Robitussin Dextromethorphan for dogs Dosage:

Dog weight in LbsDog weight in KgLiquid Robitussin DM Dosage (Time Gape 8-12 hours)Tablet Robitussin DM Dosage (Time Gape 8-12 hours)
Under 5 lbsUnder 2 kgOnly offer with Vet adviceOnly offer with Vet advice
5 lbs and above2kg and above1/4 teaspoon 2-5mg
10 lbs and above4kg and above1/2 teaspoon8-12mg
20 lbs and above9kg and above1 teaspoon15-20mg
30 lbs and above13kg and above1.5 teaspoon25-30mg
40 lbs and above18kg and above2 teaspoon35-40mg
50 lbs and above22kg and above2-3 teaspoon45-50mg
60 lbs and above27kg and above1 tablespoon55-60mg
70 lbs and above30kg and above1 tablespoon65-75mg
80 lbs and above36kg and above1 tablespoon65-75mg
90 lbs and above40kg and above1.5 tablespoon90-100mg
100 lbs and above45kg and above2 tablespoon100mg

Robitussin comes in both liquid and tablet form.

To administrate tablet form, you can crush, concealing the contents for a safe amount.

The above dosage chart is well researched, but only for educational purposes;

For safety, we have mentioned less dosage to avoid toxic effects. 

Note That: the dosage of any drug varies and depends on the overall health condition of the puppy and the severity of the illness.

Your vet can better decide the ideal dosage of the drug after your pooch physical checkup. 

Liquid Robitussin Dosage for Dogs

Dog weight in KgLiquid Robitussin DM Dosage (Time Gape 8-12 hours)
Under 2 kgOnly offer with Vet advice
2kg and above1/4 teaspoon 
4kg and above1/2 teaspoon
9kg and above1 teaspoon
13kg and above1.5 teaspoon
18kg and above2 teaspoon
22kg and above2-3 teaspoon
27kg and above1 tablespoon
30kg and above1 tablespoon
36kg and above1 tablespoon
40kg and above1.5 tablespoon
45kg and above2 tablespoon

Is Robitussin safe for dogs?

The Robitussin DM variant is safe for dogs only with the veterinarian’s prescription.

Remember that the Robitussin AC variant is not safe for dogs because it contains codeine components that are toxic to dogs.

In addition, overdosing on the drug is harmful. Do not overdose.

Only give the safe dosage of the medicine.

Populair articles:

What type of Robitussin is safe for dogs?

Robitussin has many types. The most popular types are Robitussin DM  and Robitussin AC.

The safe type for dogs is Robitussin DM because the AC type contains a codeine component that is harmful to dogs. 

How Robitussin help dogs?

Robitussin DM is a cough and congestion combo drug that helps treat your dog’s health issues such as mild coughs, dry kennel coughs, and suppressing chronic bronchitis.

It works by reducing mucus obstruction in the airways and loosening chest congestion.

Which dogs should not take Robitussin?

Dextromethorphan for dogs

In the safe dosage of Robitussin, DM is considered helpful for dogs, but in some situations, the medicine can not be recommended for some pets.

Possible Side effects of Robitussin in Dogs.

The side effects are rare, but sometimes they may develop in your puppy.

  • Anxiety
  • Change in Heart Rate
  • Difficulty Urinating
  • Drowsiness
  • Vomiting
  • Seizures
  • Restlessness
  • Nervousness
  • Weakness
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea

If you notice any severe side effects, please get in touch with your vet immediately or contact the Animal Poison Control Center Helpline (888-426-4435).

Conclusion:

Robitussin (Dextromethorphan) is a cough medicine used as OTC for dry, non-productive coughing in dogs.

There are many variants of the medication, but only the Robitussin DM is considered safe for dogs when offered the ideal dosage.

However, the drug is not considered safe for all dogs.

Therefore, some dogs should not take the Robitussin.

You May Also Like To Read: How much Benadryl can I give my dog?

FAQ:

Can you give a dog Robitussin for kennel cough?

Robitussin is an OTC  cough and cold suppressant mainly used for mild and dry cough.

However, some veterinarians also prescribe the medicine in canine kennel cough.

Therefore, the medication is only ideal for your puppy when offered in the prescribed and safe dosage.

If your dog is suffering from kennel cough, contact your vet for the safe usage of Robitussin DM.

Read next:

Is Robitussin toxic to dogs?

Robitussin AC is toxic because it contains harmful ingredients for dogs.

However, Robitussin DM is safe when offered in the correct amount.

Overdosing of any medicine is toxic. Self-medication is dangerous.

Take your vet’s advice first before giving any drug to your puppy.

What human cough syrup is safe for dogs?

There are many human cough syrups that are used as OTC  for dog’s cough.

Dextromethorphan with the brand name Robitussin DM is safe and recommended for dogs.

Before giving the medicine, first, learn about the safe dose and safe serving ideas, which we already discussed in this article