Can Dogs Have Melatonin? Safety, Recommended Dosages, and Side Effects
Key takeaways:
Melatonin, a supplement many people take to fall asleep, may also help your dog get a restful night’s sleep.
Research suggests melatonin may also help treat separation anxiety in dogs and anxiety from loud noises, such as thunderstorms and fireworks.
Talk to a veterinarian before giving your dog melatonin. There are different recommended dosages for pets and people, and it is possible to give your dog too much.
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Many people take melatonin, a naturally occurring hormone, in supplement form to help them fall asleep and rest better. Research now shows it may help your dog get some shut-eye, too. And some vets suggest melatonin for separation anxiety in dogs and fear related to fireworks, thunderstorms, and other loud noises.
But it’s not as simple as tossing one of your melatonin tablets in your pup’s bowl. Here’s what to know if you’re considering melatonin for your dog.
Is it safe to give dogs melatonin?
Melatonin is a safe supplement to give your dog, as long as you don’t give them too much. Melatonin has a low risk of harmful effects. The most common side effect of melatonin in dogs is lethargy after waking up the following day.
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But there are some situations in which melatonin may not be the best option for your dog. For example, your dog may have an underlying health issue that’s causing their sleep issues or anxiety. If that’s the case, it’s better to get a diagnosis and treatment recommendations from your veterinarian before turning to melatonin.
Also remember that melatonin is not FDA approved for use in pets, and the FDA does not regulate supplements, including melatonin. Consult your vet to make sure:
Melatonin is a safe choice for your dog
You know what to look for in a melatonin supplement
You give your dog a safe dosage
Can you give your dog human melatonin?
It’s best not to give your dog melatonin supplements made for people. Human products can contain ingredients that are harmful to pets, like xylitol. Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that’s toxic to dogs.
Instead, ask your veterinarian to recommend a melatonin supplement that’s safe for dogs.
When should you give your dog melatonin?
It is OK to give your dog melatonin once you have discussed it with your veterinarian. Your vet knows your dog’s health history and can look for potential interactions with their medications, if needed.
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In general, dogs with the following issues may benefit the most from melatonin:
Sleep problems
Anxiety
Stress
Phobias, like a fear of thunderstorms
Though more research is needed, melatonin may also help with:
Alopecia (hair loss)
Hair growth problems
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How much melatonin can you give your dog?
Your veterinarian will be able to tell you how much melatonin is safe to give your dog based on their size, the condition being treated, and any other medications they take. The chart below outlines general dosage recommendations for dogs by condition.
Condition being treated | Recommended dosage |
Sleep disorders | 1-9 mg, depending on the dog’s size |
Anxiety | 1-5 mg, depending on the dog’s size |
Alopecia (hair loss) | 3-12 mg, depending on the dog’s size |
Melatonin comes in several forms, including:
Powders
Tablets
Capsules
Liquid forms
Chewable treats
An implant that goes under the skin
What are the side effects of melatonin in dogs?
It’s uncommon for melatonin to cause harmful effects in dogs. Other than sleepiness, too much melatonin can lead to the following side effects in humans. These side effects may also apply to dogs:
Irregular sleep patterns
Vivid dreams
Itchiness
Weight gain
Changes in fertility
Does melatonin interact with other dog medications or supplements?
Melatonin can negatively interact with other medications your dog may take, such as:
Warfarin
Benzodiazepines like Xanax (alprazolam)
Succinylcholine
Be sure to tell your vet about any medications, vitamins, or supplements your pup takes.
How do you know if you’ve given your dog too much melatonin?
The most common symptoms of too much melatonin in dogs include:
Sleepiness
Lethargy
Incoordination, in rare cases
If your dog shows a lack of coordination, confine them to one area so they don’t hurt themselves. If you believe your dog has taken too much melatonin or is having a bad reaction, contact your veterinarian’s office or a pet poison hotline right away.
Frequently asked questions
There’s not enough research to suggest that melatonin is safe for puppies. Talk to a vet before giving a young dog melatonin.
Do not give Benadryl and melatonin to your dog at the same time, unless it’s recommended by your vet. Giving a dog both Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and melatonin can cause excessive sleepiness.
The bottom line
If your dog has certain types of sleep issues, anxiety, or restlessness, they may benefit from melatonin. Studies suggest this supplement is typically safe for dogs. But consult with your veterinarian before starting your dog on melatonin (or any new treatment) to make sure it’s a good choice for your pup. Your vet will also be able to recommend the correct dosage of melatonin for your dog.
Why trust our experts?
References
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. (2021). Keep calm: What to do if your pet gets into calming aids or treats.
Budde, J. A., et al. (2023). Melatonin. Plumb’s Veterinary Drug Handbook, 10th Edition. Wiley-Blackwell.
Calder, C. (2021). Behavior supplements in dogs and cats. VetzInsight.
Ruiz-Cano, D., et al. (2022). Essential oils and melatonin as functional ingredients in dogs. Animals.
Sande, P. H., et al. (2015). Preliminary findings on the effect of melatonin on the clinical outcome of cataract surgery in dogs. Veterinary Ophthalmology.
Shipstone, M. (2022). Hormonal treatment for integumentary disease in animals. Merck Veterinary Manual.
Thompson, N. (2022). Pharmacological management of psychiatric disorders in canines. University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2023). Paws off! Xylitol is toxic to dogs.
