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Medication Guide • Reviewed by Dr. Tiffany Delacruz, DVM

Clavamox for Dogs

Clavamox is amoxicillin combined with clavulanic acid, which prevents bacteria from breaking down the antibiotic. Used for resistant skin, urinary, and other bacterial infections.

Generic: amoxicillin + clavulanic acid Class: Penicillin-class antibiotic with beta-lactamase inhibitor Prescription required FDA-approved for dogs
Important: This page is an educational reference. Never start, stop, or change your pet's medication without veterinary guidance. Specific dosing depends on your pet's weight, condition, and other medications. To get a personalized prescription or refill, talk to a licensed RexVet veterinarian.

What Clavamox is used for in dogs

  • Resistant skin infections
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Soft tissue infections
  • Dental infections
  • Some respiratory infections

How it works

Amoxicillin disrupts bacterial cell walls; clavulanic acid blocks the bacterial enzymes (beta-lactamases) that resistant bacteria use to destroy amoxicillin.

Available formulations

62.5 mg tablet

125 mg tablet

250 mg tablet

375 mg tablet

Oral drops

Side effects to know

Common side effects

  • Mild GI upset
  • Diarrhea
  • Decreased appetite

These usually resolve on their own. If they persist past the first few doses, ask your vet.

Call your vet immediately if you see

  • Severe allergic reaction
  • Severe persistent diarrhea
  • Yeast overgrowth

Drug interactions

  • Probenecid increases levels
  • Other antibiotics in same class

When not to use

  • Penicillin allergy
  • Severe kidney disease (dose adjustment)

Monitoring during treatment

Complete the full course to prevent resistance. Give with food to reduce GI side effects.

Need a Clavamox refill?

RexVet is the first 501(c)(3) non-profit online vet service in the U.S. Talk to a licensed veterinarian by video, get your dogs's Clavamox prescription, and have it shipped through RexVetRx — all for $64.99 per visit.

Book a vet visit — $64.99

Clavamox for Dogs

Frequently asked questions

Clavamox vs amoxicillin — which is stronger?

Clavamox covers more bacteria, especially resistant strains that have learned to break down plain amoxicillin. Your vet picks based on the type and history of infection.

How long does my dog need to take Clavamox?

Usually 7-14 days for routine infections; 4-6 weeks for skin infections. Always finish the full course.

Can RexVet prescribe Clavamox?

Yes — for diagnosable cases like skin or urinary infections, a RexVet video visit can result in Clavamox shipping through RexVetRx the same day.

Why is Clavamox more expensive than amoxicillin?

The added clavulanic acid is patented (under various brand names), so it costs more than generic amoxicillin. Many vets use plain amoxicillin first and reserve Clavamox for resistant cases.

Can I give Clavamox with food?

Yes — giving with food helps reduce stomach upset.

Medical review by Dr. Tiffany Delacruz, DVM

Chief Executive Officer & Lead Veterinarian, RexVet. Licensed in Florida, New York, and Virginia.

Last fact-checked: 2026-05-19

Sources

This page is an educational reference and does not replace veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before starting, changing, or stopping medication for your pet.