Skip to content
What Dog Owners Should Know About Prednisone

What Dog Owners Should Know About Prednisone

Prednisone is one of the most commonly used corticosteroids to treat dogs with a variety of medical conditions, including inflammation, organ transplants, and Addison's disease. Very effective, the powerful drug acts by suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation, helping treat many medical conditions. It can be helpful to understand how prednisone acts and what it could mean for your dog's health to ensure its safe and effective use.

How Prednisone Works in Your Dog's Body

When your dog takes prednisone, it is metabolized into prednisolone, the active form of the drug. Prednisolone acts to reduce inflammation and mediate immune system responses. The metabolism of prednisone to prednisolone happens mostly in the liver, which is why caution is needed when a dog is suffering from liver problems. Such dogs may not clear prednisone as effectively, which can cause complications.

Short-Term Side Effects

Prednisone is very effective against many diseases, although some side effects may be easily noticed in your dog at the beginning of treatment. These include:

  • Increased thirst and urination – Prednisone makes dogs drink more and urinate more often.

  • Increased appetite – This is not uncommon in dogs given prednisone.

  • Mood changes – Some dogs may become irritable or restless.

These side effects are temporary and will usually disappear after a few days or once the dose is lowered.

Long-Term Risks

Although it can be a helpful drug treatment, the long-term use of prednisone may lead to certain issues requiring your attention. Some of these include:

  • Liver disease – Prolonged use may severely strain the liver of your dog, especially in dogs with pre-existing liver problems.

  • Diabetes – Dogs on long-term prednisone may develop diabetes due to an increase in blood sugar.

  • Reduced immune response – Prolonged use of prednisone will lessen the ability of your dog's immune system to fight infections.

It is important to have your dog undergo regular rechecks while they are on prednisone to assess any signs of these long-term problems.

Practical Tips on Giving Prednisone

  • Administer prednisone according to your veterinarian's advice: The dosage varies depending on the condition affecting your dog.

  • Give it with food: To reduce stomach upset, prednisone should be given with food.

  • Watch for side effects: Your dog may drink, eat, or urinate differently while on this drug. Keep track of those changes and let your vet know about any concerns.

Do not stop suddenly: Do not withdraw your dog from the drug suddenly if it has been on prednisone for a while. A tapering schedule may be necessary.

Tom Davis: "No Bad Dogs." Signature Crate
Impact Dog Crates
$1,939.00$1,456.00
Stationary Side Door Add-On
Impact Dog Crates
$486.00
Freegift Threshold
Impact Dog Crates
$809.00
Impact Dog Collar
Impact Dog Crates
$33.00
Impact Crate Training Course
Impact Dog Crates
$162.00
Collapsible Dog Crate
Impact Dog Crates
$1,456.00