What to know about Xanax for dogs

Key takeaways

• Xanax, or alprazolam, can be prescribed off-label by vets to help manage anxiety in dogs, working similarly to how it affects humans by stimulating GABA receptors in the central nervous system.
• While beneficial for reducing anxiety related to specific events or ongoing conditions, Xanax carries potential side effects like sedation and, in some cases, increased restlessness or aggression, so careful dosage and monitoring are often necessary.
• Alternatives to Xanax, including other FDA-approved medications and behavioral therapies, exist for treating canine anxiety. You can consult with a vet to determine the most appropriate and safe treatment plan for your dog.

Overview

Just like humans, dogs can experience anxiety and stress. Emotions like separation anxiety or a fear of thunderstorms can significantly affect a dog’s well-being.

To help alleviate anxiety symptoms and improve the overall quality of life for anxious dogs, veterinarians sometimes recommend medications. One option is Xanax, an anxiety medication usually prescribed for humans.

Xanax isn’t approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for dogs, but vets can legally prescribe it if they think it will be of benefit. But there are several factors to consider.

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What is Xanax?

Xanax is a brand-name version of the drug alprazolam, a type of benzodiazepine. 

A 2023 article explains that the FDA has approved it to treat panic and anxiety disorders in humans. 

It works by stimulating gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in your central nervous system, causing sedating, muscle-relaxing, and anti-anxiety effects. In higher doses, it may cause memory loss. According to a 2021 review, it likely works the same way in dogs. 

Even though Xanax or generic alprazolam medications are not FDA-approved for animals, some veterinarians prescribe these medications for canine anxiety disorders. 

Prescribing medications to treat conditions that the FDA hasn’t approved them for, including prescribing human drugs for animals, is known as extra-label or off-label use, and the FDA explains that this is a safe, legal process. Vets must follow strict guidelines to keep your pets safe when they’re prescribing them medications.

Importantly, you should only give Xanax to your dog if your vet has prescribed it for them. You should not give your dog your own Xanax medication, nor should you take yo ur dog’s Xanax. 

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What is Xanax used for in dogs?

Vets may prescribe Xanax for dogs to manage anxiety. 

For example, a 2021 review noted that Xanax can reduce anxiety in dogs related to events like: 

• veterinary visits
• stormy weather 
• fireworks
• periods of separation
• noise

A veterinarian will prescribe a suitable dose and frequency based on the dog’s size, health, and the severity of their anxiety. They might recommend occasional treatment around specific anxiety-inducing events like vet visits or as an ongoing treatment for general and longer-term anxiety. 

Vets generally prescribe medications based on your dog’s breed, size, and body weight.

The 2021 review noted that a starting dose of around 0.02 mg (milligram)/kg (kilogram) to 0.04 mg/kg was used in dogs, but doses of up to 0.1 mg/kg were possible. Always follow the directions of the vet and ensure you’re giving your pet the correct dosage. 

Is Xanax for dogs the same as Xanax for people?

Xanax for dogs contains the same active ingredient, alprazolam, as Xanax for people. However, the dosages may vary, so you should never give your dog Xanax that has been prescribed for you. Equally, you should never take Xanax that has been prescribed for your dog.

Canine Xanax may also contain other inactive ingredients that aren’t found in human Xanax, and vice versa.

Xanax risks and side effects

While Xanax can effectively manage anxiety in dogs, it’s not without its risks. 

Side effects

The 2021 review referenced earlier lists some side effects to consider:

• sedation 
• lack of coordination (ataxia)
• overly excited behavior or hyperactivity (paradoxical excitement)
• aggression

Higher doses generally mean that adverse effects are more likely. This is why vets typically start with lower doses and increase them only if needed.

Another research review notes that while alprazolam is generally effective, it can potentially lead to increased restlessness and insomnia. More generally, benzodiazepines can also heighten aggression if your dog is already prone to heightened aggression with fear.

This demonstrates that dogs can react differently to the medication. You may find that Xanax does not help your furry companion relax. If that is the case, you may need to try other approaches to managing their anxiety. This can include other medications or behavioral therapy. 

Overdose and toxicity

Overdose is another potential to be aware of. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) warns that accidental ingestion of alprazolam that isn’t prescribed for them (and therefore is likely not the correct dose) can lead to sedation, worsened coordination (making them wobbly), or even agitation.

It also notes that high doses of alprazolam can lead to lowered blood pressure, possibly even causing your dog to collapse.

If you observe any concerning changes in your dog’s behavior or health, consult a veterinarian straight away.

Risks in humans

Note that you should never take medication that a vet has prescribed for your dog.

The Drug Enforcement Agency monitors benzodiazepine medications like Xanax due to their high levels of misuse and the risk of dependence in humans. For this reason, vets may be more likely to prescribe other options to manage dog anxiety before trying Xanax.

Benefits of Xanax for dogs

Xanax for dogs can offer significant benefits. 

As explained, it can help improve a dog’s quality of life by reducing anxiety and stress. You can administer it for occasional triggering events, like when you expect fireworks. It can also support ongoing well-being for dogs that experience regular anxiety, for example, due to daily periods of separation.

Some 2023 guidelines for the care of older dogs state that alprazolam is recommended for dogs because it doesn’t remain in the body for a long time, it begins working rapidly, and it has limited potential for side effects.

Remember, you should not give your dog Xanax unless a veterinarian has prescribed it for them. Do not give your pet your own Xanax medication. 

Xanax alternatives

The FDA database for approved animal drugs lists some Xanax alternatives specifically targeted at pet anxiety:

• triflupromazine and hydrochloride (Vetame)
• clomipramine and hydrochloride (Clomicalm)
• fluoxetine hydrochloride (Reconcile)
• pregabalin (Bonquat)

Besides medications, behavioral therapy can also help some dogs overcome anxiety. 

For example, these strategies could improve separation anxiety in dogs:

• exposing the dog to many experiences outside the home 
• ensuring stable routines at home
• ensuring regular absences from the dog
• avoiding punishment for separation-related behavior
• providing activities for the dog when it’s alone
• systematic desensitization, which involves gradually increasing exposure to separation 
• exercising the dog before you leave home

A vet or dog trainer can recommend behavioral strategies tailored to the type of anxiety your dog experiences. 

Summary

Xanax can be a valuable tool in managing anxiety in dogs, either for short- or long-term treatment. The FDA has not approved it for dogs, but it is legal for a vet to prescribe it for your furry friend. 

Only administer it under the guidance of a veterinarian, be aware of the potential risks and side effects, and closely monitor your dog during treatment to ensure their safety and well-being. 

Besides Xanax, other medications and behavioral therapy can also help your dog overcome anxiety. 

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