Pacing, excessive grooming, tummy troubles — the symptoms of canine anxiety can help you understand that your poor pooch on edge.
Not only is dog anxiety emotionally bothersome for your pet, but it can have physical side effects too, making management a must.
Recognizing the signs of dog anxiety is fairly easy, but treating it is another bag of bones entirely, thanks to the sheer number of treatment options out there. Calming supplements are one potential option, and they continue to grow in popularity with some pup parents.
We’ve fetched the facts about these anxiety supplements to give you a clearer picture of what might work for you and your doggo.
Read on to learn more or just check out our quick picks if you’re in a hurry!
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Best Overall Calming Chews
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Most Affordable Calming Chews
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Best-Tasting Calming Chews
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The Best Calming Supplements for Dogs: Over-the-Counter Options for Dogs with Anxiety
As we mentioned above, the market is full of calming and anxiety supplements for dogs that contain a host of ingredients, both natural and man-made. Below, we’ve sorted out the best ones on the market to help your pooch chill out and live his best doggone life.
1. Zesty Paws Calming Soft Chews
About: Zesty Paws Calming Soft Chews are chicken-free chewable bits containing several ingredients that promote relaxation, including organic hemp seed powder and organic chamomile. Best of all, these chews earned the National Animal Supplement Council’s quality seal, offering peace of mind when calming your cutie for car rides, storms, or other stressful events.
Features:
- Formed into easy-to-eat small chews
- Suitable for all breeds
- Packaged in 50-count and 90-count containers
- Made in the USA with globally-sourced ingredients
Active Ingredients (per soft chew):
- Organic hemp seed powder (240 mg)
- Organic chamomile (80 mg)
- Valerian root (50 mg)
- Organic passion flower (45 mg)
- Suntheanine L-theanine (30 mg)
- Organic ginger root (30 mg)
- Sensoril ashwagandha (25 mg)
- L-tryptophan (25 mg)
- Magnesium citrate (16 mg)
Options: Available in Turkey, Bison, Peanut Butter, Turkey with Melatonin, Turkey Mini Bites, and Turkey Puppy.
Ingredients List
Organic Hemp Seed Powder, Organic Chamomile, Valerian Root, Organic Passion Flower, L-theanine...,
Organic Ginger Root, Sensoril Ashwagandha, L-tryptophan, Magnesium Citrate, Coconut Glycerin, Flaxseed, Garbanzo Flour, Mixed Tocopherols, Natural Bacon Flavoring, Natural Flavors, Natural Turkey Flavoring, Palm Fruit Oil, Pea Flour, Powdered Cellulose, Rosemary Extract, Sunflower Lecithin, Sweet Potato, Turkey
Pros
- Seems to calm canines without causing drowsiness
- Affordably priced
- Available in a variety of flavors
- Taste is a hit with most dogs
Cons
- Dogs with severe anxiety may need something stronger
- Some pups experienced tummy upset after trying these chews
2. NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid
Designed to work in as little as 30 minutes, these calming aids are a good choice for addressing mild to moderate anxiety.
About: The NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid is an American-made soft chew suitable for dogs of all sizes and packaged in high-count containers at wallet-friendly pricing. It combines calming chamomile with the sedative properties of melatonin, which may help your pooch remain calm during pesky fireworks and thunderstorms.
Features:
- Suitable for mild to moderate canine anxiety according to the manufacturer
- Added ginger helps soothe sour tummies
- Reportedly provides comfort and relief within 30 minutes
- These chews are safe for dogs over 12 weeks old
Active Ingredients (per 2 soft chews):
- Chamomile (150 mg)
- Thiamine mononitrate (100 mg)
- Passion flower (100 mg)
- Ginger (100 mg)
- L-tryptophan (30 mg)
- Melatonin (120 mcg)
Options: Available in one flavor, one concentration, and two quantities: 70 and 180-count tubs.
Ingredients List
Chamomile, Passion Flower, Thiamine, Ginger, L-Tryptophan...,
Melatonin, Brewer’s Dried Yeast, Fish Oil, Flaxseed Meal, Glycerin, Lecithin, Natural Flavoring, Oat Groats, Rice Flour, Sorbic Acid, Vegetable Oil, and Wheat Germ.
Pros
- Pricing is pretty reasonable, especially given the high quantity counts
- Contains omega-3s in addition to calming ingredients
- Most dogs seem to enjoy the taste
- Added melatonin can help your dog settle in at bedtime
Cons
- Smell is too strong for some pup parents and doggos alike
- May not calm the most anxious pups
3. PremiumCare Calming Treats
Duck-flavored calming chews for dogs that receive high marks from mutt mamas and papas.
About: PremiumCare Calming Treats are the perfect size for owners in search of on-the-go anxiety management and the proud owners of heaps of positive reviews from pawrents of all sorts of pups. Made with organic hemp-based ingredients, each tasty nugget can double as a treat with its mouth-watering flavor.
Features:
- These duck-flavored chews are soft, tasty, and easy to eat
- Made in the USA at a GMP-certified facility with no corn, soy, or dairy
- Suitable for all dog breeds and ages
- Work by calming your dog rather than sedating, according to the manufacturer
Active Ingredients:
- Organic hemp seed oil (125 mg)
- Organic hemp protein powder (75 mg)
- Organic chamomile powder (30 mg)
- Organic passion flower (25 mg)
- Valerian root (22 mg)
- L-tryptophan 98% (17 mg)
- Organic ginger root powder (14 mg)
Options: Available in one 60-count and 120-count packs in Duck and Bacon flavors.
Ingredients List
Organic Hemp Seed Oil, Organic Hemp Protein Powder, Organic Chamomile Powder, Organic Passion Flower, Valerian Root...,
L-Tryptophan, Organic Ginger Root Powder, Oat Flour, Palm Fruit Oil, Rice Bran, Rice Flour, Flaxseed Meal, Natural Duck Flavoring, Sunflower Lecithin, Coconut Glycerin, Powdered Cellulose, Sorbic Acid, Rosemary Extract, Mixed tocopherols
Pros
- Pup parents raved about its efficacy
- Made with a litany of organic ingredients
- Sizing works great as a treat or meal addition
Cons
- Some inactive ingredients can be an issue if your dog has food sensitivities
- More flavor options would be helpful
4. PetHonesty Hemp Calming Treats
An American-made treat featuring natural calming ingredients like organic hemp seed powder and oil, valerian root, and more.
About: PetHonesty Hemp Calming Treats use a mixture of natural ingredients to relax your dog in its assortment of flavors, including organic hemp seed powder and oil, chamomile, and valerian root. Formed into soft, bite-sized chews, they’re easy for any breed to eat.
Features:
- Made without wheat or corn
- Veterinarian-reviewed formula
- Come in 90-count tubs
- Made in the USA at a GMP-certified facility
Active Ingredients (per 2 soft chews):
- Valerian root (200 mg)
- Chamomile powder (160 mg)
- Hemp seed powder (100 mg)
- Passion flower (90 mg)
- Hemp seed oil (75 mg)
- L-theanine (60 mg)
- Ginger root (60 mg)
- Ashwagandha root (50 mg)
- L-tryptophan (50 mg)
- Magnesium citrate (5 mg)
Options: Available in chicken, beef liver, and maximum-strength duck flavors.
Ingredients List
Valerian Root, Chamomile, Organic Hemp Seed Powder, Organic Passion Flower, Organic Hemp Seed Oil...,
Organic Ginger Root, L-tryptophan, Magnesium Citrate, Brown Rice Syrup, Carrot, Cellulose Powder, Coconut Glycerin, Flaxseed, Hydrolyzed Yeast, Mixed Tocopherols, Natural Chicken Flavor, Natural Turkey Flavor, Oat Flour, Palm Fruit Oil, Rice Flour, Rosemary Extract, Sorbic Acid, Sunflower Lecithin, Sweet Potato
Pros
- Most pup parents reported a calming effect
- Reasonably priced supplements
- Good mix of flavors to choose from
- Each tub will last you quite a while
Cons
- Taste can be hit or miss with pickier pups
- Owners report the smell is a touch strong
5. VetriScience Composure Chews
A boned-shaped soft chew that mimics your pup's favorite treats in appearance.
About: VetriScience Composure Chews are calming treats that can be given daily or as needed for storms and other anxiety triggers. Made to calm rather than sedate, the manufacturer reports that these won’t leave your pup drowsy.
Features:
- Suitable for dogs of all sizes and ages
- Veterinarian-approved formula
- Made in the USA
- Starts working within 30 minutes
- Soft chew is suitable for most dogs and can be crumbled over food
Active Ingredients (per 1 soft chew):
- Thiamine (Vitamin B1) (134 mg)
- Colostrum Calming Complex biopeptide blend (22 mg)
- L-theanine (21 mg)
Options: Offered in one concentration, four flavors, and two quantities: 60 and 120-count packages.
Ingredients List
Thiamine, Colostrum Calming Complex, L-Theanine, Brewer's Yeast, Canola Oil...,
Chicken Liver Flavor, Citric Acid, Glycerin, Mixed Tocopherols, Propionic Acid, Maltodextrin, Sodium Alginate and Calcium Sulfate, Rosemary Extract, Silicon Dioxide, Soy Lecithin, Vegetable oil
Pros
- Fast-acting calming supplements are super convenient
- We love that this is a veterinarian-approved formula
- Most dogs enjoy the flavor
Cons
- May not be strong enough for dogs with severe anxiety
- Some ingredients can be a problem for dogs with food sensitivities
6. Bach Rescue Remedy
A sedative-free pet calming supplement administered with an easy-to-use dropper.
About: Bach’s Rescue Remedy Stress Relief Drops for Pets are plant-based and alcohol-free, and the manufacturer reports that the formula can be used on dogs, cats, lizards, and more. It is suitable for convenient one-time or ongoing calming applications with the included dropper. Just slip in your pup’s food or water for natural stress relief.
Features:
- Flavorless, making it easy to mix into food or water
- Made in England
- Doesn’t require refrigeration
- Usable for dogs of all ages and sizes
Active Ingredients:
- Rock rose (Helianthemum nummularium)
- Clematis (Clematis vitalba)
- Impatiens (Impatiens glandulifera)
- Cherry blossom (Prunus cerasifera)
- Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum)
Options: Available in one flavor, one concentration, and two quantities: 10-mL and 20-mL bottles with dropper included.
Ingredients List
HPUS 5x dilution of Helianthemum nummularium, Clematis vitalba, Impatiens glandulifera, Prunus cerasifera, Ornithogalum umbellatum...,
80% glycerin, 20% water
Pros
- Fast-acting formula works great during storms and fireworks
- Additive-free recipe is a good choice for dogs with food sensitivities
- Taste works well with most dogs
- Safe for other pets
Cons
- Owners reported mixed results — they did not work for all dogs
- Active ingredients aren’t as heavily studied in dogs as those in other brands
7. Ready Pet Go! Natural Calming Treats
A calming soft chew in a mouthwatering bacon and cheese flavor even picky pups dig.
About: Ready Pet Go!’s Calming Treats come in 90-count packages, offering up to a 3-month supply depending on your dog’s weight. Made with hemp powder, chamomile, and more, these dog calming treats seek to give your pooch a touch of relaxation using natural ingredients.
Features:
- Come in a tasty bacon and cheese flavor
- Safe for daily use to help ease ongoing anxiety or on an as-needed basis for fireworks and storms
- Safe for puppies to adult doggos according to the manufacturer
- Made in the USA at a GMP-certified, FDA-registered facility
Active Ingredients (per 1 chew):
- Hemp seed powder (480 mg)
- Vitamin B1 (thiamine mononitrate) (100 mg)
- Chamomile (80 mg)
- Valerian root (60 mg)
- L-theanine (55 mg)
- Passion flower (45 mg)
- Ginger root (30 mg)
- L-tryptophan (25 mg)
- Magnesium gluconate (16 mg)
Options: Only available in one size, concentration, and flavor.
Ingredients List
Hemp Powder, Thiamine Mononitrate, Chamomile, Valerian Root, L-Theanine...,
Passion Flower, Ginger Root, L-Tryptophan, Magnesium Gluconate, Hemp Extract, Chickpea Flour, Potato Flour, Sunflower Lecithin, Cane Molasses, Purified Water, Tapioca Starch, Cheese Flavor, Safflower Oil, Glycerin, Bacon Flavor, Ascorbic Acid, Sorbic Acid, Mixed Tocopherols
Pros
- Made with a variety of active ingredients
- Great pricing that won’t blow your budget
- Flavor gets tail wags from most dogs
Cons
- Some ingredients could cause tummy upset for sensitive systems
- Not every owner reports a calming effect
8. Zesty Paws Calming Dental Sticks
A breath-freshening dental chew featuring calming elements like melatonin and hemp seed.
About: Zesty Paws Calming Dental Sticks are a fun twist on anti-anxiety treatment. Made with a soothing mix containing chamomile and valerian root, the manufacturer reports they’re safe for use as needed.
Features:
- Promote relaxation without drowsiness
- Peppermint flavor freshens breath
- Chew design keeps your anxious pooch busy and cleans his teeth
- Made in the USA using a grain-free formula
Active Ingredients (per chew):
- Hemp seed powder (300 mg)
- Chamomile (60 mg)
- Valerian root (50 mg)
- L-theanine (15 mg)
- Magnesium citrate (10 mg)
- Taurine (10 mg)
- Melatonin (600 mcg)
Options: Available in one flavor, one concentration, and two quantities: a 12-ounce and 25-ounce package.
Ingredients List
Chickpea, Tapioca Flour, Coconut Glycerin, Hemp Protein, Brewer’s Yeast...,
Bone Broth Powder, Chamomile, Valerian Root, Lactic Acid, Kelp Meal, Sorbic Acid, L-theanine, Magnesium Citrate, Taurine, Rosemary, Peppermint Oil, Citric Acid, Hemp Extract, Melatonin
Pros
- Pet parents loved these breath-freshening sticks
- Innovative design keeps dogs engaged (and distracted) during high-stress situations
- Helps clean your dog’s chompers
Cons
- Can be a choking hazard, as with any chew
- Chew design may not offer quick relief compared to chews or drops
9. Nootie PROGILITY Calming Aid Soft Chews
A calming soft chew for dogs featuring belly-boosting probiotics and a tasty bacon and cheese flavor.
About: Soothe your sniffer’s anxieties and tummy woes with Nootie PROGILITY Calming Aid Soft Chews, a multifunctional chewable packing with mellowing melatonin and belly-pleasing probiotics. The bacon and cheese flavoring entices even picky pups to give them a try, though these soft chews can also be crumbled in food for fuss-free dosing.
Features:
- Strains of 7 different gut-friendly bacteria offer a multi-pronged dose of digestive support
- Can be used as a daily calming supplement for anxiety-prone pups
- Fast-acting formula also works great before storms, travel, and other occasional stressors; just offer 30 minutes before the event
- Made in the United States
Active Ingredients (per 1 soft chew):
- L-theanine (100 mg)
- Thiamine (100 mg)
- Passion flower (50 mg)
- L-tryptophan (40 mg)
- Ginger root (33 mg)
- Colostrum (30 mg)
- Valerian rot (25 mg)
- Melatonin (2.5 mg)
- Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bacillus coagulans, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Lactobacillus reuteri 223 million CFU
Options: Available in Mini Chews (for dogs 30 pounds and under), Calming Chews (for dogs over 30 pounds), and Calming Bars (maximum strength.)
Ingredients List
L-Theanine, Thiamine, Passion Flower, L-Typtophan, Ginger Root...,
Colostrum , Valerian Root, Melatonin, Proprietary Probiotic Blend of Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bacillus coagulans, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus reuteri, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Calcium Propionate, Cane Molasses, Glycerin, Natural Bacon Flavor, Natural Cheddar Cheese Flavor, Purified Water, Rice Bran, Rice Flour, Safflower Oil, Sorbic Acid, Soy Lecithin, Tapioca Starch, Vitamin E.
Pros
- Added probiotics give your canine’s digestive tract a helping paw
- Most dogs seem to be fans of the flavor
- Several pawrents report improved canine anxiety and calmness after offering chews
Cons
- Pricier than some other calming supplements
- Some pups experienced tummy upset with these chews
10. Ollie Calming Chews for Dogs
About: A focused ingredient list free of common proteins that may trigger allergies is just the tip of the pawesome iceberg with Ollie Calming Chews for Dogs, a supplement that employs natural ingredients to combat canine anxiety. The bite-size chewable chunks are a breeze for barkers big and small to eat, while the tasty peanut butter and banana flavor keep your pup’s tail wagging.
Features:
- Third-party lab tested for safety
- Soft texture can be crumbled into food if needed
- Made in the United States at a cGMP certified facility
- Intended for canines 12 months and older
Active Ingredients (per 1 chew):
- Ginkgo biloba leaf (75 mg)
- Chamomile flower powder (50 mg)
- Passion flower (50 mg)
- L-tryptophan (25 mg)
- Valerian root (25 mg)
- Melatonin (1 mg)
Options: Comes in a single peanut butter and banana flavor in a 60-count container.
Ingredients List
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf, Chamomile Flower Powder, Passion Flower, L-Tryptophan, Valerian Root...,
Melatonin, Brewer’s Dried Yeast, Citric Acid (as preservative), Flaxseed Meal, Natural Peanut Butter and Banana Flavor, Organic Palm Fruit Oil, Sunflower Lecithin, Tapioca Starch, Vegetable Glycerin
Pros
- Made with the same top-notch, human-grade ingredients as Ollie’s dog food
- Pricing is reasonable with Ollie’s frequent discounts on supplements
- Lacks potential protein allergy triggers for dogs like chicken
Cons
- Some pups may prefer a meaty tasting chew
- Requires subscription to Ollie’s dog food to purchase direct from Ollie (but they can also be purchased at Petco!)
How Do Calming Supplements Work?
Calming treats contain ingredients that promote relaxation, which may take the edge off mild to moderate cases of canine anxiety. These types of supplements are often used by owners looking for techniques to calm their dogs naturally, without the use of vet-prescribed medication.
The efficacy of these supplements varies. Some studies link the active ingredients to an improvement in overall anxiety while others dismiss their claims entirely.
This makes talking to your vet a must before trying any canine calming supplement to ensure the right fit.
Ingredients vary by supplement, but the most common are:
- Valerian root: Often used by people as a sedative, valerian root is a natural ingredient that may help calm anxious dogs. In fact, dogs who were allowed to smell valerian root extracts exhibited decreased vocalizations and activity in a kennel environment (where anxiety runs rampant ) according to a study published in Applied Animal Behavior Science. Valerian root isn’t for all dogs, however, and can have adverse effects in some, especially those on medication.
- L-theanine: The amino acid L-theanine is believed to increase dopamine in the brain, easing anxiousness. A study published in a 2015 issue of Journal of Veterinary Behavior found that L-theanine reduced symptoms in dogs prone to storm-associated anxiety. Perhaps most encouraging, owner satisfaction with the treatment in the study was 94%.
- L-tryptophan: Believed to increase serotonin levels in the brain, L-tryptophan may help your dog regulate his anxiety. It’s shown promise in one study published in a 2000 issue of Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, as it appeared to reduce aggression and hyperactivity, common side effects of anxiety. However, this study had a pretty limited scope (it only involved 33 dogs), so more research is needed.
- Chamomile: Found to have a mild sedative effect, chamomile may also have anti-anxiety properties. Unfortunately, while it is thought to be safe for dogs, and one of its primary active ingredients (apigenin) is relatively well-understood, controlled studies with canines have yet to take place.
- CBD: CBD or cannabidiol is a plant extract that’s often used to treat anxiety in humans. While there are only a handful of dog studies to-date and more research is necessary, there is some encouraging data available. One 2018 study published in a 2018 issue of Journal of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association concluded that CBD is typically well-tolerated by dogs, and a 2019 survey of veterinarians found that many reported it to be effective at treating anxiety (as well as pain and seizures). CBD typically appears as CBD oil or hemp in dog supplements.
- Melatonin: A hormone that promotes relaxation and sleep, melatonin is often included in calming treats to help anxious dogs suffering from hyperactivity. There are no clear cut scientific studies surrounding dogs and melatonin, though some vets find it effective in alleviating stress caused by separation anxiety, fireworks, and storms.
A few ingredients that are used less often and are less studied, include:
- Passion flower: Passion flower is a plant believed to have calming or sedative effects on dogs in homeopathic medicine. There are no definitive scientific studies to back-up this claim, nor verify its safety for dogs.
- Ginger: We can’t find any studies specifically investigating the safety or efficacy of ginger in dogs, but it is well-known for calming properties on the human stomach. Nevertheless, one 2017 study published in Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Education and Research has also linked it to reducing overall anxiety in lab mice.
- Thiamine: Also known as Vitamin B1, thiamine is linked to reducing anxiety in humans. However, no study thus far has examined its use, efficacy, or safety in canines.
- Helianthemum nummularium: Results are mixed on the overall effectiveness of this plant (which is also known as rock rose) against anxiety, according to a 2010 study published in Annals of Epidemiology. Extracts of the rock rose are typically prepared in homeopathic remedies, which are typically not shown effective in empirical trials. As put by the study’s authors: “it is likely that the placebo effect operates to a significant extent in both approaches.”
- Clematis vitalba: Commonly known as old man’s beard, this flower is used to treat anxiety in homeopathic circles, but no studies have been done on humans or canines to verify this claim or the safety of the extract.
- Impatiens glandulifera: Also referred to as Himalayan balsam, this plant has long been used in folk medicine to treat ailments including anxiety. In limited studies, however, the extract hasn’t shown a change in lab mice behavior, and there have been no controlled studies conducted on dogs
- Prunus cerasifera: Also called cherry plum, this plant and other Bach Flower Remedies are popular among some owners, but they have not been shown to have significant impact on human anxiety (or any other ailment) in studies.
- Ornithogalum umbellatum: Known by its common name Star of Bethlehem, this supplement demonstrates the fact that caution is important when using natural supplements, and many are not safe. In fact, this additive is potentially dangerous and may cause irreversible blindness when administered to dogs, according to one study.
- Colostrum calming complex: Also called C3 by its manufacturer, VetriScience, colostrum calming complex is made using cow’s milk obtained within 12 hours of the birth of a calf. The company states that the nutrient-dense complex contains amino acids including decapeptide that boost the effect of gamma-Aminobutyric acid, a neurotransmitter that can make the brain less reactive to stressful stimuli. Amino-rich formulas derived from colostrum have shown promise in a 2005 study of human Alzheimer patients published in Regulatory Peptides. However, no studies specifically using C3 have been done on humans or dogs.
- Zylkene: Zylkene (beef-hydrolyzed milk protein, aka alpha-S1 tryptic casein/alpha-casozepine) is quite similar to the colostrum calming complex and works in essentially the same way.
Always check with your vet before giving your dog a any supplement.
Some dogs may be more sensitive to certain ingredients than others, and medications can affect the way some supplements affect your pet’s health.
Your pupper may also be experiencing anxiety due to a medical condition, so it’s important to rule any out before treatment.
Different Types of Calming Supplements: Chews, Tinctures, & Tablets to Help Your Dog Deal with Stress
As with all medications, supplements designed to calm dogs come in several forms for administering. Which form works best will vary by your dog’s preference and overall medication tolerance. The most common types are:
Chews
Typically flavored with peanut butter or a protein as an incentive, chews are given to your dog like a treat.
Pros
- Most are flavored in pooch-appealing ways
- Convenient for travel and dispensing as needed
- Easy to mix in with food if needed
Cons
- Can be tricky to give to pickier dogs
- Added flavors or ingredients can be a problem for dogs with sensitivities
Tinctures
This liquid-extract form is administered orally or over food via a dropper.
Pros
- Easy to mix into your dog’s food
- Often flavorless, making them better than chews for some pups
- Generally free of ingredients that can affect sensitive dogs’ systems
Cons
- Can be messy to administer
- Often require refrigeration
Tablets
Tablet-form supplements are typically round pills that may or may not be flavored.
Pros
- Generally easy to administer
- Rarely require refrigeration
- Can be easily slipped into cheese or pill pockets
Cons
- Those with flavoring can be an issue for dogs with sensitivities
- Can be hard to give to pickier dogs
What Kinds of Pets Can Benefit from Calming Treats, Chews, and Supplements?
Like all treatments, calming supplements work better when dealing with some kinds of stressful situations than others. Dogs who typically benefit from calming supplements are:
- Dealing with separation anxiety: If your dog fears being alone, a supplement designed to calm him can give your pooch the temporary relief he needs when you need to venture out without him.
- Fearful of loud noises: Storms and fireworks may give your dog anxiety. These types of stimuli aren’t everyday events, but supplements can be ideal for controlling your dog’s anxiety as needed.
- Suffering from generalized anxiety: Some pups are nervous Nellies by nature, making them candidates for these types of non-prescription treatments.
- Recently adopted: Joining a new family and routine is stressful. Relaxing your new friend with a supplement can smooth out the adjustment period.
Symptoms of Anxiety in Dogs
Our dogs can’t tell us when they’re feeling anxious, but they can clue us in with their behavior. Not every dog will act the same when they’re feeling anxious, with some pups making their troubles known loudly and proudly while others mask them as much as possible.
That said, the most common signs your dog is anxious are:
- Pacing
- Restlessness
- Hiding
- Improper elimination
- Trembling
- Panting
- Excessive drooling
- Whining or barking
- Excessive grooming (particularly paws)
- Destructive chewing
If you suspect your dog is anxious, call your vet and schedule an exam to rule out other health conditions if the cause isn’t obvious, such as fearing storms or fireworks.
Additional Steps to Soothing Your Anxious Dog
While calming liquids, chews, and supplements can help your dog relax, the best approach to tackle anxiety is a comprehensive one.
Treating the source of your dog’s anxiety through counter-conditioning and training, rather than only masking the stress symptoms, is always ideal.
Dogs with more serious anxiety may need the help of more high-dose dog anxiety medication that can be more powerful than the supplements covered here. Talking with your vet can narrow down the best treatment plan.
Other tools and techniques you can use include:
- Increasing exercise: Upping your dog’s activity levels can alleviate stress. This is particularly important in woofers exhibiting anxiety related to a change in routine.
- Crate training: An anxiety-proof crate gives your pooch a place to unwind, feel safe, and relax. Ideal for keeping dogs with separation anxiety safe and out of trouble, a crate can also be used to isolate your storm-fearing dog with calming music during thunder.
- Thundershirt: Like swaddling a baby, a Thundershirt provides your dog with security when he’s feeling anxious during an event, like a storm or fireworks. Snug but not restrictive, thundershirts may be used alone or in combination with another anxiety-controlling method.
- Prescribed medication: For doggos with severe anxiety, medication like Xanax may be the best option. These specially formulated medications target chemicals in your pupper’s brain to help him relax.
- Desensitization/Counterconditioning: If specific things send your pup’s anxiety through the roof like other dogs, desensitization or counterconditioning training can tackle his fear. This gradual training exposes your pooch to his trigger over time, reducing and finally eliminating the phobia and subsequent anxiety.
- Providing a chew toy: Chewing and licking help to release endorphins in your doggo’s brain, which will help calm him down a bit. Plus, these types of anxiety dog toys and chews help keep his brain busy too.
Have you tried any of the supplements discussed above with your pooch? What works best to relieve anxiety for your pet?
Also, tell us about the types of stressful situations give your dog anxiety. Do vet visits set him off? What about thunderstorms?
Let us know in the comments!
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