So, your vet has approved your dog for oral meds in the form of *gasp! * — Tablets. While there are happy pet parents who have no issue giving pills to their pup, there is countless lore of those who have tried a variety of tricks up their sleeves to get their canine to take a tablet, often to no result.
You are not alone in this issue. We hear you; that is why we have collected some hacks, tips, and tricks on getting a dog to take a pill easily. But before we start, one more point to bring up.
Be mindful of your vets’ instructions.
First and foremost, pet owners need to understand and follow our vet’s advice when giving a tablet. If your vet says you should mix the medication with food, we have to do just that. On the flip side, the vet may prescribe a medicine that a pup should take on an empty tummy.
A different example is if your vet told you to give your dog a pill two times a day, which is at odds with your vet asking you to provide two tablets once every 24 hours. You should know all these nuances to avert causing damage to your pup. Different medications have varying procedures, and how to give them to our dogs may also depend on their specific need.
It is equally important to complete the prescription, especially regarding antibiotics. You shouldn’t combine some medications with other supplements or drugs. If you feel puzzled, it is best to clarify with your vet to avoid confusion.
Tip-off on how to give a dog a pill with food
As long as you need to ensure that your dog takes their prescribed pills, it is essential to have a positive experience. You can add more treats and increase exercise and playtime, among other options. Be careful; it may also take practice, so self-control is vital. The following are some of the tips that you can apply when giving your dog the tablet:
Hide the pill in your dog’s food
On the issue of how to get a dog to take a pill without them noticing, hiding the medicine in their food might do the trick, especially if your dog has a healthy appetite. Generally, it’s best to choose food with intense flavors that can easily be lumped to hide the pill inside. Ideally, it would help if you started giving a few pieces of the authentic food or treat before giving them the treat that has the drug.
Give it just before their daily walk.
Many dogs can’t contain their enjoyment when they know that you’re about to exercise them. As long as they’re distracted, this is a convenient time to give your dog a tablet. You can provide it as quickly as you step outdoors, or maybe at the park where he’ll be busy looking at the surroundings. Remember to bring some treats with you to use along with the pill.
Pretend to eat the hidden pill
When you are eating, you’ve probably seen that your dog always wants what you are holding. You can use this in your favor. Hide the pill in the center of the food and pretend to eat it. At this moment, your dog is likely begging and eagerly expecting you to get fed. You’re eating is the perfect time to plop the treat with the pill as your dog excitedly gobbles it up.
In Summary
Restraining a canine while also trying to give him medicine is difficult. If desirable, ask a family member or a friend to hold your pup for you so that you can focus entirely on the job at hand.
Reward Your Dog
Nothing is worse than a stressful process. Honor your dog with a small treat after every pill and do your best to keep both of you calm, no matter how frustrated you get.
Ask Your Veterinarian for a Demonstration
Successful administration of pills is an art form. When in doubt, request a demonstration of proper technique from your veterinarian.
