Can I give my Shih Tzu human cough syrup? What's a safe dose?

We do not normally recommend a cough suppressant over the counter for coughing in dogs without first examining the pet as there are some cases where a cough suppressant would be contraindicated. If your dog is coughing, I would definitely recommend an examination by a veterinarian as there can be many different causes for the cough, including infectious disease, anatomical abnormalities like collapsing trachea, heart failure, heartworm infection, and more. We need to try to determine the underlying cause of the cough before we can properly treat the cough.

I’m sorry to hear about Tanner. This sounds like it could be collapsing trachea which is a chronic disease. I would avoid human cough syrup as the dosing is unknown and if it contains decongestants it can be potentially toxic. Finally, some of the sweeteners used in medicines can be toxic to dogs. Take one more trip to the vet and discuss the pros and cons of a more long-term prescription for a dog-safe cough suppressant. Best of luck to you and Tanner!

Some syrups are, but certain ones have ingerdients that can harm dogs. You can repost with the ingredients or ring your vet to ask if it is safe. Bear in mind that we are not allowed to give out dosages.

I would be really careful with human cough syrups as some ingredients can be toxic to dogs. It certainly sounds like it could be a kennel cough infection. Before you can get to the vet I would recommend making a home cough syrup of warm honey and lemon to soothe the throat. It is less risky than human cough bottle.

I would not recommend giving Mocha Robitussin total cough, cold and flu extra strength. It contains pseudoephedrine and acetominophen which can both be toxic in dogs if not used very carefully (and Mocha is a small guy). I wish I could give you a good recommendation for an over the counter medication, but the safest cough medications for dogs are only available by prescription. I would recommend contacting your vet about Mocha's cough and see what they would recommend for him. Coughing can be caused by anything from irritation to a virus to something much more severe, so I would make sure to keep your vet in the loop and have Mocha evaluated right away if he seems to get worse or not feel well. Good luck! I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Delsym can be used in dogs, however you should call your veterinarian to obtain a safe dose. Do not medicate your pet without the advice of your vet. Additionally, cardiac disease should be ruled out since you have an older dog. This will require a physical exam along with chest xrays and/or an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart).

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Shasta!! Kennel cough can be frustrating for you and Shasta! It could be caused by many organisms: Bordatella, viruses, other bacteria and mycoplasmas. It is usually self limiting in a healthy dog and may take 2 weeks. Over the counter human medications are not recommended for pets to suppress the cough. I recommend calling your Vet in the morning and see if they will prescribe cough tabs with out seeing him. A lot of the type Vets put them on a course of antibiotics, but would likely want to see him first. I wish you and Shasta the best of luck!