Melatonin Dosage Chart for Dogs

Melatonin is a common ingredient in many over the counter sleep aid products. This naturally occurring hormone promotes rest and relaxation in humans, so many wonder if it does the same for dogs.

Dogs can take melatonin for sleep and anxiety related complications. However, there are a few important safety guidelines you should be aware of before offering it to your dog.

Let’s discuss everything you need to know about melatonin uses, doses, and side effects!

What Is Melatonin?

Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone. The body creates more melatonin when we are in a dark environment. The opposite happens when darkness is traded for sunlight. This helps to regulate night and day cycles, and essentially promote a healthy sleeping schedule. When offered in supplement form, melatonin is believed to improve restful sleep for those that struggle to fall asleep.

Is Melatonin Safe for Dogs?

Melatonin is safe for use in dogs when following the guidance of your veterinarian. Melatonin can manage a variety of sleep disturbances and behavioral issues, as well as a few medical conditions. However, melatonin can be dangerous when it is dosed incorrectly or given with other medications. It is important to get veterinary approval before giving your dog melatonin.

Can Melatonin Help My Dog Sleep?

Just like in humans, melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone in dogs. Melatonin helps promote restful sleep and regulate sleep-wake cycles. It can be used in supplement form if your pup is experiencing a sleep disturbance. Melatonin can promote sleep in dogs with anxiety, insomnia, canine cognitive dysfunction, and sundowner syndrome.

Why Do Dogs Take Melatonin?

As we mentioned above, melatonin can be used to combat a variety of behavioral and medical complications. Let’s break down some of the most common uses of melatonin in dogs below.

Anxiety & Behavioral Issues

Melatonin can be prescribed to dogs with mild anxiety and behavioral disorders that are causing a sleep disruption. According to the British Small Animal Veterinary Congress, melatonin may have an effect on dopamine levels in dogs. They believe that too much dopamine can lead to anxiety in dogs. Melatonin can decrease dopamine levels and promote calmness.

Insomnia

A vet can prescribe melatonin to dogs with insomnia. Dogs can experience disruptions in their sleeping patterns for a number of reasons. Changes in sleep patterns can make it impossible for pups to calm down and rest at appropriate times. Melatonin can help to promote calmness and regular sleep.

Canine Cognitive Dysfunction & Sundowner Syndrome

Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) is similar to dementia in humans. It refers to a decline in cognitive functions due to the natural aging process of the brain. Aging leads to a variety of mental impairments. CCD causes confusion and disorientation around nighttime in dogs. Your little one may be confused as to why the house is dark and quiet. Melatonin can help to decrease anxiety and promote calmness, ultimately helping your pup drift into restful sleep.

Alopecia

Melatonin can be used to treat mild cases of alopecia in dogs. Experts aren’t exactly sure how melatonin promotes hair growth in canines. However, the most prominent theory is that it stimulates growth hormones in the hair follicles.

However, melatonin cannot be used to treat hair loss due to ectoparasites, autoimmune conditions, skin infections, and any other medical factor that impacts coat health. These complications will require their own separate methods of treatment.

What Is the Melatonin Dose for Dogs?

Just like for humans, melatonin has a wide dose range for dogs. Vets typically recommend anywhere from 2 to 6 mg by mouth every 12-24 hours. This varies based on the condition treated. For example, a dog with alopecia might take 2-4 mg every 12 hours. A dog with insomnia due to sundowner syndrome may get 6 mg every 24 hours before bed.

We always suggest trusting your vet’s guidance when it comes to melatonin dosing. You want to be sure that you’re offering your dog an appropriate amount for their condition. You can also refer to the instructions on the back of your melatonin supplement of choice. Just be sure to run it by your vet first for safety.

Dangers Of Melatonin Use in Dogs

Melatonin is safe for dogs when following the dosing instructions from your vet, and when given by itself. However, dogs can develop severe side effects when melatonin is given in excess, or when given with other medications that impact serotonin levels.

Serotonin syndrome is a complication that can occur when melatonin is given with herbal supplements or serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI). This can lead to a sudden increase in serotonin levels within the body, leading to the onset of serotonin syndrome. Common signs of this complication include muscle tremors, seizures, disorientation, a wobbly gait, agitation, increased heart rate, and gastrointestinal upset. Serotonin syndrome is a medical emergency, so it’s best to have your pet assessed by a vet ASAP if you notice any of these symptoms.

Another potential danger occurs when a dog receives a supplement that is made for humans. For example, many melatonin gummies for people contain artificial sweeteners like xylitol. Xylitol is highly toxic to dogs, which is why it is so important to only offer them melatonin supplements approved by your vet.

Are There Side Effects with Melatonin Use in Dogs?

The most common side effect of melatonin use in dogs is sedation or drowsiness lasting past their resting time. Some pups may be a bit groggy after resting, but this typically fades as the hours go on.

Some dogs also develop mild GI upset with melatonin use. We suggest reaching out to your vet if your dog develops diarrhea or vomiting after taking melatonin, as your vet may offer guidance on how to adjust their dosing.

How Do I Get Melatonin for My Dog?

If you think your dog can benefit from daily melatonin, you may be wondering where you can find the best melatonin supplement for dogs. We’ve got you covered with our guide on the best melatonin supplements for your furry friends. However, just be sure to check with your vet first to make sure the supplement is right for your pup.

How Do I Help My Dog Sleep at Night?

Melatonin is a great way to promote relaxation in your canine friend, but there are other tools that can help your pup sleep as well! Here are a few tips and tricks to help your dog sleep at night.

Exercise during the day: Some dogs can feel restless at night if they do not have enough exercise during the day. We suggest making sure they have enough daily stimulation based on their breed requirements and taking them on a walk just before bed to help burn off any extra energy.

Make sure they have a full stomach: Have you ever tried to sleep on an empty stomach? If so, you know how hard it is. Giving your pup their dinner a couple hours before bedtime can prevent them from tossing and turning due to hunger.

Comfortable bedding: The key to a restful night of sleep for both humans and dogs is a comfortable bed! Check out our guide on the best orthopedic beds for dogs!

Final Thoughts

Melatonin can be a safe an effective way to promote restful sleep in your little one. Just be sure to show any supplements to your vet before giving them to your dog, as this can prevent any dangerous side effects or toxicities.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Kuznetsov Alexey/Shutterstock.com