How do I give my dog a pill?

Giving your dog a pill is more like an art than a science. Here are some tips for the art of successful pilling.

If your dog needs pills, ask your veterinarian if you can give the medication with food. It’s best not to put the pill in a meal because you want to be sure that the pill has been eaten. So instead, roll the pill in a little cream cheese or butter.

To give the pill directly, put your dog in front of you with his back toward you. Grasp his top jaw and tilt his head back. Use your pinky to open the bottom jaw, and place the pill on your dog’s tongue. Then gently close the jaw. Blow on his nose gently and rub his throat to encourage him to swallow. Ask your veterinarian for a demonstration.

– Dr. Larry McDaniel, DVM for the “Purina® Animal Instincts” Podcast Series

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