Are you wondering if your dog can take Adderall? Is it dangerous for canines?
Many owners ask about the possibility of using this prescription medication on their pets.
First thing’s first:
Adderall’s active ingredients, amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, effectively reduce behaviors commonly associated with ADHD.
That much is true.
But this combination drug is also too risky for your dog! It is not a solution to whatever problem you’re dealing with.
Adderall can seriously harm your dog. In fact, numerous animals have died from its misuse.
Never Give Your Dog Adderall
There are safer ways to deal with hyperactivity and other forms on disobedience. Keep reading…
Here’s What Our Vet Says
We asked Sara Redding Ochoa (DVM), from Whitehouse Veterinary Hospital, about this drug and she told us the following:
“Adderall can kill your dog! Similar, yet much safer, prescription medications include Trazodone and Prozac. But, ideally, sufficient exercise often allows dogs to release their bottled up energy. Introducing drugs, as a way to alter your dog’s behavior, should be a last resort.”
Your dog cannot handle Adderall.
Providing even a low dose could be a big mistake. Keep this powerful stimulant out of reach.
FYI: It’s much more likely that your vet would prescribe Ritalin (Methylphenidate) if they recommend a pharmaceutical at all.
Side Effects Linked to Amphetamine
There is a long list of symptoms that your dog could experience if given Adderall:
- High blood pressure
- Faster heart rate
- Drooling
- Panting
- Enlarged eye pupils
- Tremors of the muscles
- Increased agitation or restlessness or hyperactivity
- Lethargy or sedation
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Seizures
Folks who take Adderall can attest to its potency!
It’s sad to hear about dogs suffering from being given this Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder drug. Such incidents are completely unnecessary!
A Canine Treat Worth Trying
We have personally had luck with natural calming treats and would never consider any type of amphetamine!
Please seek alternatives whatever the reason(s) you are thinking of Adderall.
Common Behavioral Problem
Is your dog not listening to you, or are they anxious or not focused?
It could be that they aren’t recognizing the master of the household.
You may need to reestablish yourself as the leader. Do that and you’ll likely notice improvements.
Does Your Dog Even Have ADHD?
Psychologists used to diagnose dogs with Attention Deficit Disorder, but this practice has since been written off. It is no longer accepted among the vast majority of professionals.
What’s certain is this:
Adderall is not what your dog needs!
Must Act on Accidental Adderall
Do you have reason to believe that your dog has gotten into a supply of Adderall?
The situation could be urgent!
Head straight to an animal hospital. The amount ingested is really the main factor regarding the level of seriousness. When in doubt play it safe and go!
A flush of your dog’s system may be required or activated charcoal could be used. In any case, time is of the essence.
FYI: The Animal Poison Control hotline can be reached at 800-213-6680.
The Bottom Line
Do not give your dog Adderall. This amphetamine is terribly toxic.
There could be any number of reasons for a dog’s ADHD-like symptoms or anxiety.
Get a diagnosis/assessment if your pet’s behavior is truly problematic. If a medication is needed, the right drug will be prescribed.
Adderall could easily put your dog in the hospital or worse.
It’s been proven, repeatedly, that there are significant deficits in some individuals that can be vastly improved with the use of stimulant medication. Any debate that exists regarding the veracity of ADHD as a condition are based in misinformation or ignorance. I understand this is a site for dogs, so I won’t wax at length about it.