Key takeaways:
Amitriptyline is an antidepressant that is used to treat separation anxiety, generalized anxiety, itching, and nerve pain in dogs.
The most common side effects of amitriptyline in dogs include sedation and dry mouth, though more serious side effects can occur.
Amitriptyline must be used carefully under the supervision of a veterinarian to avoid overdose. Always talk to your vet before giving your dog amitriptyline.
Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant used in dogs for separation anxiety and generalized anxiety. It is also used for itchiness and nerve pain in some dogs.
Amitriptyline is not FDA-approved for use in dogs. But it can still be used as an “extra-label” or “off-label” prescription.
Learn more about what this means and whether amitriptyline may be right for your dog.
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Amitriptyline for dogs at a glance
Common name | Amitriptyline (Elavil) |
What it treats | Anxiety, itching, nerve pain |
How it comes (forms) | Tablet, compounded chew, oral liquid |
Dosage | Depends on your dog’s weight |
Common side effects | Sedation, dry mouth |
Average cost |
What is amitriptyline, and how does it work?
Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant. It has been used for over 20 years in dogs to treat certain types of pain and mood disorders.
Amitriptyline works in several ways, including increasing levels of “happy” chemicals, such as dopamine and serotonin, in the brain. Increased levels of “feel-good” chemicals can reduce your dog’s perception of pain and stabilize their mood.
Amitriptyline also works by blocking alpha-1 adrenergic receptors, which reduces fear. Amitriptyline blocks histamine release, as well, which can make it helpful for itchy dogs.
What is amitriptyline used for in dogs?
Amitriptyline is used to manage generalized anxiety and separation anxiety in dogs. It has also been used to control itching, acral lick dermatitis, and nerve pain in dogs.
Amitriptyline is most effective in treating anxiety in dogs when it is used in conjunction with a long-term behavioral modification plan.
What is the typical dose of amitriptyline, and how is it given to dogs?
The standard dosage of amitriptyline for dogs is 1 mg/kg to 2 mg/kg of body weight. When prescribed to dogs, amitriptyline is given every 12 to 24 hours.
What’s worrying your pup? Common triggers include separation anxiety, loud noises and strangers. Get advice on the causes, symptoms and treatment options for anxiety in dogs.
Relief for scary situations: Does your dog get nervous in specific situations, such during vet visits, fireworks displays or thunderstorms? Learn how trazodone can help.
Human medicines for pets: Your pet can take some of the same medications as humans. Here’s how to fill these prescriptions for your pet.
Your veterinarian will determine the appropriate dosage for your dog. Never give your dog amitriptyline without first talking to your veterinarian. Otherwise, your dog could get too much medication, which can kill them. Your dog’s specific dosage will vary based on several factors, including their:
Issue being treated
Weight
Overall health
Other medications
Typically, a veterinarian will start your dog out at a lower dose of amitriptyline to minimize potential side effects. If there is no improvement or if your dog experiences side effects, your vet will adjust their dosage of amitriptyline. This adjustment process may take several weeks. Follow your veterinarian’s dosing instructions exactly.
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Amitriptyline comes in tablets ranging from 10 mg to 150 mg. The tablets can be split in halves or quarters if necessary, based on what your dog needs. Amitriptyline can also be compounded into an oral liquid or chew.
It is best to give amitriptyline with food to increase absorption and reduce potential stomach upset. After handling the medication, wash your hands.
What are the common side effects of amitriptyline in dogs?
The most common side effects of amitriptyline in dogs include:
Sedation
Dry mouth
Holding their urine
A small number of dogs may exhibit hyperactivity instead of sedation when prescribed amitriptyline.
If your dog takes amitriptyline long term, your veterinarian will likely want to see them every 6 to 12 months to make sure the medication is working safely.
Amitriptyline’s effects should wear off in a couple of days. But amitriptyline may last longer in the bloodstream in dogs with liver or kidney disease.
Amitriptyline changes your dog’s brain chemicals, so it should not be stopped abruptly. If you need to stop giving your dog amitriptyline, first consult with your veterinarian. They can give you instructions on how to safely wean your dog off of the medication.
What are the most serious risks of amitriptyline for dogs?
Rare but more serious side effects of amitriptyline for dogs can include:
Fast or irregular heartbeat
Seizures or tremors
Decreased blood cell count
Hormonal imbalances
If you notice any of these side effects in your dog, call your veterinarian as soon as possible for advice.
If you suspect your dog has gotten too much amitriptyline, call your veterinarian, an emergency clinic, or a pet poison hotline immediately.
Does amitriptyline interact with any other dog medications?
There are hundreds of medications that can interact with amitriptyline. These include:
Albuterol
Azithromycin
Azole antifungals, such as ketoconazole or itraconazole
Benzodiazepines, including alprazolam and diazepam
Buspirone
Cetirizine
Cimetidine
Cisapride
Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine)
Estrogen
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as carprofen and meloxicam
Opioids, including buprenorphine
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine and sertraline
Warfarin
If your dog takes any other medications or supplements, let your veterinarian know before your dog is prescribed amitriptyline. Your veterinarian will then be able to determine if it’s safe for your dog to take this medication.
What should you do if your dog misses a dose of amitriptyline?
If you miss giving your dog a dose of amitriptyline, give them the next dose as soon as possible. Then continue their regular medication schedule the next day. Never give them two doses of any tricyclic antidepressant, including amitriptyline, at the same time or closer than 12 hours apart.
Frequently asked questions
It usually takes a couple weeks for amitriptyline to work for dogs. You may start seeing improvement sooner. But it will take time for the medication to fully build up in your dog’s system.
Yes, you do need to wean your dog off of amitriptyline because of how it changes the levels of chemicals in their brain. Your veterinarian will give you a schedule to wean your dog off of the medication if they need to stop taking it.
It usually takes a couple weeks for amitriptyline to work for dogs. You may start seeing improvement sooner. But it will take time for the medication to fully build up in your dog’s system.
Yes, you do need to wean your dog off of amitriptyline because of how it changes the levels of chemicals in their brain. Your veterinarian will give you a schedule to wean your dog off of the medication if they need to stop taking it.
The bottom line
Amitriptyline is a medication that, along with behavioral modification, can help reduce anxiety in dogs. It can also help treat nerve pain and may be prescribed to relieve itching, which can improve your dog’s quality of life.
While amitriptyline is safe for many dogs, it must be prescribed by your veterinarian, and you must follow their specific instructions. This will help prevent side effects or accidental overdose. Your veterinarian may require periodic lab testing and physical examinations for your dog while they’re taking this medication.
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References
Brooks, W. (2024). Amitriptyline (Elavil). Veterinary Partner.
Castel, A. (2025). Psychotropic agents for treatment of animals. Merck Veterinary Manual.
Johnson, L. R. (1990). Tricyclic antidepressant toxicosis. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice.
Reisner, I. (2014). The use of medications in canine behavior therapy. Today’s Veterinary Practice.
Sargisson, R. J. (2014). Canine separation anxiety: Strategies for treatment and management. Veterinary Medicine: Research and Reports.
Ter Maat, R., et al. (2025). The effectiveness of amitriptyline and gabapentin in treating pomeranians with chiari-like malformation and/or syringomyelia. MDPI.
Veterinary Information Network. (2020). Client drug information sheets - amitriptyline hydrochloride.
