How to Give Your Dog a Tablet

Try to hide the tablet in food, if the medication can be given with food. Hand feed a small amount of food without the tablet, then hide the tablet in the next small amount, then give the rest of the meal and monitor if the dog spits the tablet out. A small amount of cottage cheese or tinned dog food can be used.

If the dog does not take the tablet in food, it will have to be given directly into the mouth.

Have the dog sitting comfortably with his bottom against something eg. A couch or wall, so he cannot back away.

If right-handed, hold the tablet between right thumb and forefinger.

Gently grasp the top of your dog’s muzzle with your other hand with thumb on one side and fingers on the other.

Gently squeeze his lips behind his canines so he opens his mouth and tilt his head towards the ceiling – his jaw should drop open a bit.

Use a finger on your right hand to push the bottom jaw down, at the same time pushing the tablet as far back on the tongue as possible.

Hold the mouth shut and gently blow on the dog’s nose – when he licks his nose he will usually swallow. This process works best if done in one quick motion.

Give lots of praise and a treat if possible.

For those dogs that are difficult to open their mouths, consider a ‘pill-popper’ – a long plastic pen-like instrument with a rubber end to give tablets. This will save you from putting your fingers in your pets mouth.

Please ask SDVC staff for a demonstration if you are having trouble!