How often should I give my dog gabapentin?

Gabapentin is typically given every 8-12 hours (2-3 times daily). For anxiety before specific events like vet visits, it may be given as a single dose 2-3 hours beforehand. Always follow your vet's specific dosing schedule.

Can I use human gabapentin for my dog?

Gabapentin capsules and tablets are generally the same for humans and dogs. However, NEVER use human liquid gabapentin as it often contains xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is extremely toxic to dogs.

What are the side effects of gabapentin in dogs?

Common side effects include sedation, wobbliness (ataxia), and mild gastrointestinal upset. These effects are usually mild and decrease as your dog adjusts to the medication. Contact your vet if side effects are severe or persistent.

Can gabapentin be combined with other medications?

Gabapentin is often used in combination with other pain medications (like NSAIDs) or anti-anxiety medications (like trazodone). Your veterinarian will determine safe combinations based on your dog's specific needs.

Veterinary+ Chart

Gabapentin Dosage Calculator for Dogs

Calculate the correct gabapentin dose for your dog based on weight. Includes dosing for pain, anxiety, and seizures with dosage chart.

Gabapentin for Dogs

Calculate the correct gabapentin dose for your dog based on weight. Includes dosing for pain, anxiety, and seizures with dosage chart.

Dog's WeightEnter your dog's current weight

PurposeSelect the reason for gabapentin use

Dose LevelStart low and increase as directed by your vet

Capsule StrengthSelect the capsule strength you have

Gabapentin for dogs requires a veterinary prescription. Dosing varies based on the condition being treated and individual response. Always follow your veterinarian's specific instructions. Do not use human gabapentin liquid formulations as they may contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

Important Disclaimer

About This Calculator

Gabapentin is commonly prescribed for dogs to manage chronic pain, anxiety, and seizures. Originally developed as an anti-seizure medication, it's now widely used for its pain-relieving and calming effects. This calculator helps determine appropriate doses based on your dog's weight and the condition being treated.

How It Works

Enter your dog's weight, select the purpose (pain, anxiety, or seizures), and choose a dose level. The calculator provides the dose in milligrams and the number of capsules needed. Gabapentin is typically given 2-3 times daily, but follow your vet's specific instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Gabapentin is used in dogs for three main purposes: chronic pain management (especially nerve pain and arthritis), anxiety and fear (including noise phobias and vet visit anxiety), and seizure control (usually in combination with other medications).

Clinical Review

Dr. Igor I. Bussel, MD

Board-Certified Ophthalmologist

Dr. Igor I. Bussel is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained surgeon affiliated with the University of California, Irvine (UCI), the Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, and the UCI School of Medicine.

Last Updated: 2025-01-05

Sources & Guidelines

Medically Reviewed

Evidence-Based

Updated 2025-01-05

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References

Reviewed by: Veterinary Clinical Review Team (DVM)

Last updated: 2025-01-05