At times you may be required to give your dog an oral liquid medication or supplement. At first, this may not seem so simple but by following the steps below, it will help you perform the task stress free.

To begin, make sure you have carefully read the prescription label and understand the dosing instructions. Gently shake or mix the liquid medication prior to use or withdrawing into a syringe. Once you have withdrawn or prepared the appropriate amount of liquid into the syringe or dropper, place it in a convenient location where you will be able to reach it once you have your dog ready. When you are ready, call your dog over in a relaxed happy voice.

Find a convenient place to administer your dog’s medication or supplement. It can be easier if your dog’s hind end is against something (wall, door) so that he cannot back away from you.

1. Pick up the syringe or dropper and place it in your dominant hand. With your other hand, gently grasp your dog’s muzzle from above and tilt their head back slightly.
2. Place the tip of the syringe or dropper into the pocket formed between your dog’s cheek and their back teeth.
3. Slowly administer the medication or supplement. Be careful not to give the liquid faster than your dog can swallow it. Do not try to give all the liquid quickly at one time since this can cause choking or vomiting. Your dog may spit out some of the medication due to the taste. If this happens, do not re-administer another dose.
4. Once all the liquid has been administered, hold your dog’s mouth closed and continue to hold his head in a slightly elevated position. This will make swallowing a little easier. Gently rubbing on their throat or blowing in their nose can also help stimulate the swallow reflex.
5. Gently wipe your dog’s mouth with a soft damp cloth if any liquid dripped out.
6. You are done! Remember to always give you dog plenty of praise and possibly a treat. This will help associate this task with something positive, hopefully making the next time easier on both of you.
7. Be sure to rinse the dropper or syringe with tap water and return the medication or supplement to the shelf or fridge if necessary.

To make things a little easier, you can always try practicing with water first instead of the medication to familiarize yourself with the technique and to ensure no medication is wasted.

If your dog is not on any dietary restrictions and if the medication can be given with food, it may be easier to mix the dose with a small amount of canned food. It is best to give a small amount of food without the medication first. This will lower your dog’s suspicion to what you are about to do. It is also best not to mix the medication in an entire meal, since if your dog does not eat the whole meal, the appropriate dose of medication will not be given.

Please do not hesitate to contact us at Centrepointe Animal Hospital if you have any questions about administering liquid medication(s) to your dog.