The thiamylal‐and halothane‐sparing effect of diazepam was studied in two experiments using 32 conditioned dogs. Twenty‐four dogs received 0.05, 0.1 or 0.2 ml/kg diazepam or 0.9% saline (placebo) prior to the administration of thiamylal sodium i.v. Eight dogs received 0.1 or 0.2 mg/kg diazepam i.v. or placebo prior to or during halothane anesthesia. All three doses of diazepam significantly decreased the amount of thiamylal required to allow orotracheal intubation. The 0.2 mg/kg i.v. dose of diazepam produced the most significant effects. Premedication of dogs with diazepam did not reduce the concentration of halothane required to maintain anesthesia. The administration of 0.1 and 0.2 mg/kg diazepam i.v. during halothane anesthesia decreased the concentration of halothane required to maintain anesthesia. These studies demonstrate that diazepam reduces the amount of thiamylal required for orotracheal intubation, and when given intra‐operatively reduces the concentratíon of halothane required to maintain an