Ursodiol Dosage Chart for Dogs: Risks, Side Effects, Dosage, and More

Has your vet prescribed ursodiol for your dog? You likely have a list of questions about what the medication is and how it works, so let’s break down everything you need to know about ursodiol for dogs!

In this article, we discuss the details of canine ursodiol use, safe doses, side effects, and more. Let’s get started!

What Is Ursodiol?

Ursodiol is a naturally occurring bile acid in the body. When used in medication form, ursodiol can help to reduce the amount of cholesterol the liver produces, as well as assist in the breakdown of cholesterol within the body. Ursodiol is commonly used in human and animal medicine to treat a variety of liver and gallbladder issues.

Is Ursodiol Safe for Dogs?

Ursodiol is safe for use in dogs when following guidance from your veterinarian. It is also only safe in the dose and form that your veterinarian prescribes. Human doses and liquid ursodiol for humans may contain toxic xylitol. The only form of ursodiol that is safe for your dog is the form that comes from your vet’s office.

Why Do Dogs Take Ursodiol?

It’s important to understand how this medication works. As we mentioned above, ursodiol is a naturally occurring bile acid. Some of its main roles within the body include decreasing cholesterol amounts secreted by the liver, preventing gallbladder stones and sludge, and increasing the flow of bile from the liver into the gallbladder.

If a dog has liver disease or gallbladder disease, then the body can have a hard time carrying out the tasks we listed above. Daily ursodiol can help to restore healthy liver and gallbladder functions. For this reason, ursodiol commonly treats the following medical conditions in dogs:

• Liver injuries due to toxicity
• Chronic hepatitis
• Cholestasis
• Congenital liver shunts
• Gallstones

Ursodiol can treat a variety of conditions in which the liver is not functioning properly.

Administering Ursodiol to Dogs

Vets can prescribe Ursodiol to dogs in pill, capsule, or liquid form. It is best with food, so we suggest offering it with your pet’s meals. Your vet will prescribe a dose based on your dog’s size, as well as the specific condition treated.

Just remember that you should only give your dog ursodiol prescribed from your vet’s office. Ursodiol for humans and liquid ursodiol for humans may contain a dangerous substance called xylitol.

What Is the Dose of Ursodiol in Dogs?

Before we discuss the standard dose of ursodiol for dogs, we should mention again that you should not give your dog ursodiol without approval from your vet. With that in mind, there is a standard ursodiol dose that vets typically stick to.

The standard ursodiol dose for dogs is anywhere from 2.5 to 7 mg per pound of body weight. Where your dog falls on this dosing range will vary based on the condition treated, as well as the severity of that condition. Your vet will suggest an appropriate dose to fit your little one’s needs.

Are There Side Effects with Ursodiol Use in Dogs?

Ursodiol is a naturally occurring compound within the body, so it causes few side effects when offered to our canine friends. However, there are a few minor side effects that some pets have experienced.

The most common side effects of ursodiol use in dogs include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Nausea or drooling
• Lethargy
• Decreased appetite

Be sure to reach out to your vet if your dog develops any side effects with ursodiol use. Your vet may need to adjust dosing, or they may prescribe other medications that can combat their side effects.

Common Risks of Ursodiol Use in Dogs

As we mentioned above, there are few risks with ursodiol use since it is a naturally occurring compound within the body. However, the most common complications with ursodiol occur when it is combined with an antacid. Antacids may neutralize the effects of ursodiol, so we do not suggest offering any antacids unless your vet approves.

There are not many risks associated with ursodiol use in dog. However, there is a precaution that pet parents need to take when giving this medication to their pet. Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling ursodiol, as this chemical occurs in our bodies as well. Washing your hands after handling ursodiol can prevent this substance from absorbing into your body.

I Missed My Dog’s Ursodiol Dose – What Now?

If you accidently missed you dog’s ursodiol dose, you may be wondering what you should do next. Should you skip the dose altogether? Should you double their dose next time? We’re here to help.

If you missed your pet’s ursodiol dose and you are not within a four-hour timeframe of their next dose, then you can give the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if you are within four hours of their next dose, then it is best to skip the dose altogether. Missing one dose is not the end of the world, and most pets will be just fine with one missed dose.

Do not double up on doses if you miss your pet’s ursodiol dose.

How Do I Get Ursodiol for My Dog?

Ursodiol is a prescription medication that can only be found at your vet’s office. We suggest scheduling an exam with your veterinarian if you think your pup can benefit from the use of ursodiol!

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Varvara Serebrova/Shutterstock.com