Heard the vet say “metro” and wondered how much to give your dog? Most folks use “metro” to mean metronidazole, a common antibiotic and anti‑protozoal used for diarrhea, Giardia, and some anaerobic infections. It’s effective, but dosing varies by the problem, the dog’s weight, and the product form. Below are practical ranges, clear examples, and safety tips so you know what to expect before talking with your vet.
Common metronidazole doses for dogs fall into these ranges: 5–15 mg/kg once or twice daily for general infections and inflammatory bowel signs, and up to 25 mg/kg twice daily for short Giardia courses. Duration is usually 5–14 days depending on the issue.
Examples you can use to picture it: a 10 kg dog at 10 mg/kg = 100 mg per dose; at 15 mg/kg = 150 mg. A 20 kg dog at 10 mg/kg = 200 mg; at 25 mg/kg (Giardia) = 500 mg per dose. Tablets often come in 125 mg, 250 mg, or 500 mg, so doses may be rounded—always confirm with your vet.
Metronidazole comes as tablets, oral suspension, and injectable forms. Most home treatments use oral tablets or liquid. If the vet prescribes twice‑daily dosing, give roughly every 12 hours. Single‑daily dosing is sometimes used for milder cases, but follow the exact schedule your vet gives. Treatment length depends on the diagnosis—short courses (5–7 days) for Giardia; longer for deeper infections or chronic gut disease.
Watch for side effects. Mild stomach upset, decreased appetite, drooling, or metallic taste are common. Neurologic signs—unsteadiness, tremors, or seizures—are rare but serious and need immediate vet care. Use caution with dogs that have liver disease; the liver clears metronidazole, so doses may need adjustment. Pregnant dogs should only get it if the vet says it’s necessary.
Some practical tips: give with food to cut stomach upset; don’t stop early even if symptoms clear—finish the course unless your vet tells you otherwise. If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember unless it’s close to the next dose; don’t double up. Keep all medications out of reach and store them as labeled.
Finally, metronidazole is helpful but not a one‑size‑fits‑all fix. Lab tests (fecal checks, cultures, bloodwork) often guide the exact dose and length. If your dog shows worrying signs—vomiting, worsening diarrhea, neurologic changes, or lethargy—call your vet right away. Use these dose ranges as a starting point for discussion, not a replacement for professional advice.
Worried about taking care of your dog while they’re on metronidazole? This guide shares simple tips for feeding schedules, using probiotics, and keeping your dog hydrated to speed up recovery. Get real-life advice, learn why stomach upset happens, and discover how you can help your dog bounce back faster with practical home care strategies.
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