If your dog is scratching all the time, you’re likely wondering whether you can give them Benadryl or ask your vet about Apoquel. The truth is, Apoquel is usually far better for relieving allergy related itching in dogs. Benadryl can help with mild, intermittent itching, but for chronic itching due to allergies, it rarely provides meaningful relief.
If your dog is scratching all the time, you’re likely wondering whether you can give them Benadryl or ask your vet about Apoquel. The truth is, Apoquel is usually far better for relieving allergy related itching in dogs. Benadryl can help with mild, intermittent itching, but for chronic itching due to allergies, it rarely provides meaningful relief.
• Apoquel targets the specific pathway that causes itching due to allergies; Benadryl does not
• Apoquel generally starts working in 4-24 hours; Benadryl often provides little to no itch relief
• Benadryl may help with mild hives or swelling but isn't designed to treat skin allergies
• Apoquel requires a prescription; Benadryl can be bought over the counter
Apoquel (oclacitinib) blocks JAK enzymes - which is the exact enzymes involved in sending itch and inflammation signals in allergic responses. Given it targets the root problem Apoquel is usually very good at treating environmental or atopic allergies in dogs.
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is an antihistamine that inhibits histamine receptors. Histamine is the primary player in human allergic response. However, in dogs itching from allergies is primarily driven by cytokines and JAK enzymes. Therefore, antihistamines (such as Benadryl) typically fail to provide relief for these types of issues.
While Benadryl is not completely ineffective, it is not the best choice for most allergy-related itching. It may provide some benefit for acute reactions like bee stings, mild hives, or facial swelling. Some vets also recommend it for motion sickness or mild anxiety. However, if your dog has chronic itching, chewing or licking from allergies, Benadryl will likely not make a significant difference.
For dogs with ongoing allergy symptoms (itching, inflamed skin, hot spots, ear infections) Apoquel is far more effective. Most dogs experience noticeable relief within hours, not days. It's approved for both short-term flare-ups and long-term management, making it a preferred option for dogs who need consistent relief.
The tradeoff for using Apoquel is that it is required to be prescribed by a veterinarian and is more expensive than a bottle of Benadryl. However, for dogs experiencing true allergies, the difference between the two products is significant.
Benadryl commonly causes drowsiness in dogs, along with dry mouth and occasional digestive issues. While Benadryl is generally safe short-term it's not meant for recurring long-term use.
Apoquel may cause digestive issues, decreased appetite, or lethargy (which are usually mild and temporary). Because it's an immunomodulator, dogs on Apoquel are considered mildly immunosuppressed. It shouldn't be used in dogs with serious infections or a history of certain conditions. For long-term Apoquel use, periodic lab work is recommended.
Many pet owners start with Benadryl simply because it is a familiar product that can be purchased without a prescription.However, allergies in dogs function differently than human allergies. What helps your seasonal sniffles likely won't stop your dog's itching.
If your dog continues to itch or scratching leads to skin damage, it's time to move beyond over-the-counter products. A vet can determine what's driving the symptoms and whether Apoquel - or another treatment - is the right fit. Allergy symptoms tend to intensify over time, so earlier intervention makes a real difference.
Otis offers convenient online care with veterinarians who are experts in dog allergy treatment and management. Otis vets can evaluate your dog's symptoms, recommend the right approach, and prescribe medications like Apoquel through same-day virtual visits, so you can skip the long waits and stressful car rides.
Because dog allergies are driven by different pathways than human allergies. Antihistamines block histamine, but most canine itch comes from cytokines and JAK enzymes, which Benadryl doesn't touch.
The typical dosage is 1 mg per pound of body weight, administered 2–3 times daily. But this can vary, so confirm with a vet, especially if your dog has other health conditions.
In some cases yes, but always check with your vet first. Though these medications are processed differently, combining medications without guidance isn't recommended.
