Dog behavior experts are discovering more about stress in canines and how to find the best calming supplement for dogs. An anxious dog is unhappy and can present a risk to itself and others. We know that many dog owners are turning towards calming products and are hunting for the best calming aid for dogs.

We have saved you a lot of time and effort by researching the different calming treats and other products on the market. We have included a dog calming pills review and help you to decide which would be the best product for your furry friend.

A Quick Overview of Our Favorites

Editor's PickProduct NamePriceRating
Best Calming TreatsZesty Paws Core Elements Soft Chews Calming Supplement for DogsBuy on Amazon4.2
Best Calming PowderPurina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Calming Care Buy on Amazon4.3
Best Calming DropsRescue Remedy Stress Relief Pet SupplementBuy on Amazon3.9
Best Non-GMOPetHonesty Soft Chews Calming Supplement for DogsBuy on Amazon4.2
Best Soft ChewsNaturVet Quiet Moments Soft Chews Calming Supplement for DogsBuy on Amazon4.1
Best Calming SticksZesty Paws Calming Peppermint Flavored ChewsBuy on Amazon4.4
Best CapsulesVetoquinol Zylkene Capsules Calming Supplement for DogsBuy on Amazon4.0
Veterinarian ApprovedVetriScience Soft Chews Calming Supplement for DogsBuy on Amazon3.8
Best NaturalRichard's Organics Pet CalmBuy on Amazon4.2
Best TabletsNutramax Solliquin Soft Chews Calming Supplement for DogsBuy on Amazon4.3
Best SprayNaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Spray for DogsBuy on Amazon4.1
Best for Large DogsPet Naturals Calming Dog Chews for Extra Large DogsBuy on Amazon4.0
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change

The 12 Top-Rated Calming Supplements For Dogs

1 Best Calming Treats: Zesty Paws Core Elements Soft Chews Calming Supplement for Dogs

Best Calming Treats: Zesty Paws Core Elements Soft Chews Calming Supplement for Dogs
Key features:
  • Delicious calming treat
  • Natural ingredients including organic passion flower
  • Contains Suntheanine – a premium form of L-Theanine
  • May help with hyperactivity

These soft chews have a delicious taste and are packed with ingredients that may calm canine anxiety and help with stressful situations. You can administer between one and three Zesty Paws calming bites a day depending on the size of your pooch. The natural ingredients in these calming treats include organic chamomile, Valerian Root, L Tryptophan and organic passion flower to alleviate stress.

However, the main calming ingredient in Zesty Paws Core Elements Calming Peanut Butter Flavored Soft Chews Calming Supplement for Dogs is Suntheanine which is a premium form of L-Theanine that has been used in clinical studies into promoting relaxation and calmness in pups. The other ingredient in Zesty Paws calming bites is Sensoril Ashwagandha which promotes focus and clarity in all sizes of dogs. These calming chews are designed to help with everyday stress as well as hyperactive behavior. They may be very useful during storms, firework displays and stressful life events.

Ingredients:

Organic Hemp Powder, Thiamine (Vitamin B1), Organic Chamomile, Valerian Root, Organic Passion Flower, Suntheanine® (L-Theanine), Organic Ginger Root, L-Tryptophan, Magnesium Citrate, Hemp Extract, Palm Fruit Oil, Peanut Flour, Pea Flour, Sweet Potato, Flaxseed Meal, Natural Peanut Butter Flavoring, Sunflower Lecithin, Coconut Glycerin, Rosemary Extract, Mixed Tocopherols, Sorbic Acid (Natural Preservative).

What others say about it:
image

My german shep.. is a hyper one full of energy.. This past Thanksgiving holidays i gave him his appropriate amount for a large pup– and he was calm as ever.. I love these– But I only give him these when Im having company. I love his hyper energy to keep me going.

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Pros
  • Dogs love the peanut butter taste
  • Suitable for all ages and sizes of dog
  • Suitable for a wide range of dog anxiety conditions
Cons
  • Contains palm fruit oil which can cause environmental problems
  • Can take a while to work out the correct dose for your dog
Show More

2 Best Calming Powder: Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Calming Care

Best Calming Powder: Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Calming Care
Key features:
  • Calming supplements sprinkled on food
  • All natural ingredients
  • Great for the immune system
  • Contains Bifidobacterium longum BL999

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Calming Care Liver Flavored Powder Calming Supplement for Dogs contains calming ingredients to help dogs relax. These dog calming supplements contain probiotics beneficial bacteria Bifidobacterium longum BL999. The supplement has been designed by vets and animal nutritionists to have a calming effect on dogs.

It is purchased as a six week supply and is sprinkled on top of your dog’s food. These nutritional supplements may help with general anxiety and compulsive behaviors associated with stress including barking, pacing and spinning. Use it for external stressors such as thunderstorms and separation anxiety.

Ingredients:

Active Ingredients per sachet (1g): Bifidobacterium longum BL999 1×109 CFU.

Inactive Ingredients: Liver flavor, Maltodextrin. A-2519

What others say about it:
image

This worked extremely well for my female pit bull, however, my male pit bull seemed to have one particular behavior change. He was constantly humping, something he has never done since he was neutered. I stopped giving him his dose and the humping slowed down to eventually stop. My female dog has improved significantly!

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Pros
  • Can help with anxious behaviors
  • Natural active ingredients
  • Designed by vets
Cons
  • An expensive product
  • Not a complete fix for noise sensitivity
Show More

3 Best Calming Drops: Rescue Remedy Stress Relief Pet Supplement

Best Calming Drops: Rescue Remedy Stress Relief Pet Supplement
Key features:
  • Completely natural ingredients
  • Homeopathic and non habit forming
  • Can help to calm dogs after stressful events
  • Contains five flower remedies

For dog dog owners who are already familiar with homeopathic remedies, Rescue Remedy Stress Relief Pet Supplement will be a welcome addition to their pet medicine cabinet. If you have not used this type of remedy before, you will be interested to know that is produced from a combination of flower remedies namely Star of Bethlehem, Rock Rose, Cherry Plum, Impatiens and Clematis. 

All you have to do is add a few drops to your dog’s water bowl. It is completely alcohol-free and safe and can be used for separation anxiety as well as fear caused by loud noises and travel.

Ingredients:

HPUS 5x Dilution of Helianthemum Nummularium, Clematis Vitalba, Impatiens Glandulifera, Prunus Cerasifera, Ornithogalum Umbellatum.

What others say about it:
image

I love this product. It really calms down my hyper-active 3 year old retriever. I give it to her most mornings on a biscuit when she comes in from doing her “business.” At 6 am, I want to go back to bed and the Rescue Remedy allows her to do the same. I also use it during thunderstorms or a party with humans!

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Pros
  • Dogs cannot get addicted to it
  • All natural ingredients
  • Easy to administer
Cons
  • May not completely remove anxiety
  • As it is added to water, you can’t administer it immediately
Show More

4 Best Non-GMO: PetHonesty Soft Chews Calming Supplement for Dogs

Best Non-GMO: PetHonesty Soft Chews Calming Supplement for Dogs
Key features:
  • Reduces anxiety in around 40 minutes
  • Contains no GMOs, wheat or corn
  • Active natural ingredients including chamomile and ginger
  • Useful for stressful situations and life events

Organic and non-GMO pet products are becoming more and more popular with dog parents. PetHonesty CalmingHemp Chicken Flavored Soft Chews Calming Supplement for Dogs is a truly natural product that is designed to work in harmony with your dog’s body. It can help to keep your dog calm and can reduce hyperactivity.

These dog supplements obtain their calming properties from the active ingredients which are valerian root for anxiety, chamomile to promote calmness, organic hemp seed powder for general health and wellness and ginger root to reduce cortisol which is a stress-related hormone. It also has delicious carrot, sweet potato, flaxseed and chicken to provide essential micronutrients.

Ingredients:

Other Ingredients: Oat Flour, Palm Fruit Oil, Sweet Potato, Carrot, Rice Flour, Brown Rice Syrup, Natural Chicken Flavor, Flaxseed, Sunflower Lecithin, Cellulose Powder, Natural Turkey Flavor, Coconut Glycerin, Sorbic Acid, Rosemary Extract, Mixed Tocopherols.

What others say about it:
image

I received this product free for my honest review from #BzzAgent. I have three large rambunctious dogs that are terrified when it comes to loud noises and very jumpy when we have visitors . I gave them a couple chews according to size and weight and amazingly it works after about 30 mins they are calm and relaxed. I’ve tried other products which made them jittery and they looked drugged. I would definitely recommend and buy this product in the future and keep it always on hand.

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Pros
  • Made in the USA
  • Plenty of active ingredients
  • No drugs, sedatives or side effects
Cons
  • Effect may wear off quite quickly
  • Contains barley which may be an issue for some dogs
Show More

5 Best Soft Chews: NaturVet Quiet Moments Soft Chews Calming Supplement for Dogs

Best Soft Chews: NaturVet Quiet Moments Soft Chews Calming Supplement for Dogs
Key features:
  • Contains L Tryptophan and thiamine
  • Designed to be given 30 minutes before a stressful event
  • Added melatonin for relaxation
  • Ginger for travel sickness

The NaturVet Quiet Moments Soft Chews Calming Supplement for Dogs uses amino acids to help stressed dogs and alleviate fear related anxiety. These particular calming chews contain thiamine and L Tryptophan which amino acids that are thought to help a dog relax more.

These would be the best calming treats for reducing travel stress as they also contain ginger which can settle the stomach and reduce travel sickness. They are suitable for dogs over 12 weeks and come in a handy resealable jar.

Ingredients:

Active Ingredients: Chamomile Passion Flower, Thiamine (Vitamin B1), Ginger, L-Tryptophan, Melatonin.

Inactive Ingredients: Brewer’s Dried Yeast, Fish Oil, Flaxseed Meal, Glycerin, Lecithin, Natural Flavoring, Oat Groats, Rice Flour, Sorbic Acid, Vegetable Oil, and Wheat Germ.

What others say about it:
image

My Yorkie, Molly, was a wild child. We started to add this to her breakfast as a treat. She thinks they are a treat because she loves the taste. At 3 years old she has now started to act like a lady on her own. Molly doesn’t have any brother or sister to teach her things, like to be chill around people. These chews allowed her to grow up on her own, with a lot of help from her hemp treats!

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Pros
  • Also useful for travel sickness
  • Easy to administer
  • Handy container
Cons
  • Not for pups under 12 weeks old
  • Safety in breeding dogs and those taking sedatives and other medications has not been established
Show More

6 Best Calming Sticks: Zesty Paws Calming Peppermint Flavored Chews

Best Calming Sticks: Zesty Paws Calming Peppermint Flavored Chews
Key features:
  • Calming dental sticks containing melatonin
  • Suntheanine to promote calmness
  • Great for dental health
  • Easy to store and administer

A simple and clean way to calm your dog as well as promoting oral health, the Zesty Paws Hemp Elements Calming Peppermint Flavored Chews Calming Supplement for Dogs contain plenty of natural calming ingredients. You’ll find hemp seed powder, melatonin, chamomile and valerian root. The ingredients list of these calming dental sticks also features Suntheanine, which is a form of the amino acid L Theanine that helps to promote calmness.

Half a stick is suitable for dogs weighing under 25 pounds but you can give up to two sticks to dogs weighing over 50 pounds. They help with nervousness, stress and hyperactivity.

Ingredients:

Chickpea, Tapioca Flour, Coconut Glycerin, Hemp Protein, Brewer’s Yeast, Bone Broth Powder, Chamomile, Valerian Root, Lactic Acid, Kelp Meal, Sorbic Acid (Natural Preservative), Suntheanine (L-Theanine), Magnesium Citrate, Taurine, Rosemary, Peppermint Oil, Citric Acid, Hemp Extract, Melatonin.

What others say about it:
image

This has to be one of the best calming treats I have used. I have 2 28 pound puppies and used only one of these for them and they slept all through the night. My male especially calmed right down he’s been acting so crazy lately as he is getting bigger he just has a lot of energy to the point he literally sprints and does parkour in the house off of all the furniture and all he wanted to do was mellow out after having this treat.

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Pros
  • Can be split between morning and night
  • Easy and clean to dispense
  • Ingredients such as kelp to promote dental health
Cons
  • Not all dogs like the peppermint flavor
  • The origin of the bone broth powder is not clear
Show More

7 Best Capsules: Vetoquinol Zylkene Capsules Calming Supplement for Dogs

Best Capsules: Vetoquinol Zylkene Capsules Calming Supplement for Dogs
Key features:
  • Unique ingredient alpha-casozepine from cow’s milk
  • Calms without making your dog sleepy
  • Lactose-free to prevent stomach upsets
  • No artificial additives

A clinically proven remedy for stress and anxiety, the Vetoquinol Zylkene Capsules Calming Supplement for Cats & Dogs contain alpha-casozepine which is a natural ingredient of cow’s milk. It can reduce anxiety in most dogs and has a calming effect. These calming supplements should be given before a stressful event such as trip to the vet or a house move.

This product is used by animal behaviorists and may be something that you should try if you have had no success with other remedies. The capsules are very clean and easy to store and contain no lactose or preservatives. You can give the whole capsule or open it up and sprinkle it over a meal.

Ingredients:

Dried Hydrolysed Casein, Maltodextrin, Magnesium Stearate.

What others say about it:
image

Used this for my anxious cat during a 8hr move. I followed the directions & definitely noticed a calmer cat. A lot of the bad reviews, I don’t think followed the directions. It’s not an instant pill. For an upcoming stressor, start the cat on it a week or more in advance, not day of.

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Pros
  • Will not make your dog drowsy
  • Can also be used for cats
  • All natural ingredients
Cons
  • Should be used under the direction of a vet
  • Some dogs won’t swallow the capsules
Show More

8 Veterinarian Approved: VetriScience Soft Chews Calming Supplement for Dogs

Veterinarian Approved: VetriScience Soft Chews Calming Supplement for Dogs
Key features:
  • Unique combination of active ingredients
  • Colostrum calming complex
  • Starts to work in 30 minutes
  • Can be given twice a day

The unique combination of active ingredients in VetriScience Composure Chicken Liver Flavored Soft Chews Calming Supplement for Dogs is not found in other calming supplements and is thought to be highly effective. It is approved by vets for the treatment of canine anxiety so you can be confident to give it to your precious pooch.

It contains colostrum calming complex to promote calmness and and the amino acide L theanine and thiamine to help to balance behavior. These can be given up to two times a day and start to work within 30 minutes. You can expect them to work for up to four hours.

Ingredients:

Active Ingredients: (Per 1 Soft Chew) Thiamine (Vitamin B1), C3 Tm (Colostrum Calming Complex), L-Theanine.

Inactive Ingredients: Brewers Yeast, Canola Oil, Chicken Liver Flavor, Citric Acid, Glycerin, Mixed Tocopherols, Propionic Acid, Proprietary Blend (Maltodextrin, Sodium Alginate and Calcium Sulfate), Rosemary Extract, Silicon Dioxide, Soy Lecithin, Vegetable Oil.

What others say about it:
image

My dog is 14 y/o and has (CCD) dementia. She was sundowning and pacing for up to 4 hrs/night. I have tried several different things to calm her and ease her symptoms. I have found the Composure Chews to be the answer. We give her one with her dinner and then another an hour before bedtime. Now she paces for maybe 15 minutes/night. Some nights there is no pacing.

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Pros
  • Rapid acting before stressful events
  • Approved by vets
  • Suitable for all breeds of dog
Cons
  • Some dogs may not like the taste
  • Not approved for pregnant dogsA
Show More

9 Best Natural: Richard’s Organics Pet Calm

Best Natural: Richard's Organics Pet Calm
Key features:
  • Contains organic chamomile and passion flower
  • Valerian root for dog’s anxiety
  • Suitable for all breeds
  • 100% natural

If you are looking for an alternative to tablets and chews, Richard’s Organics Pet Calm would be a great option. It comes in a compact bottle with a dropper and is designed to be used before stressful events. Only a tiny amount (1ml for every 10 pounds of body weight) is needed to help anxious dogs.

The active ingredients that can cause a calming effect are Valerian, Chamomile, Passion Flower, Skullcap Extract. It is made in the USA and contains no artificial flavors or preservatives – you can be sure that it is 100% organic and natural.

Ingredients:

Active Ingredients: Valerian, Chamomile, Passion Flower, Skullcap Extract.

Inactive Ingredients: Organic Sugar, Purified water, Sodium Benzoate.

What others say about it:
image

I bought this stuff for my dogs. I used it over the 4th when my neighbors were shooting off fire works. It helped tremendously. I also have it to our dog during a thunderstorm. It worked wonders both times.

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Pros
  • Made in the USA
  • Convenient bottle and dropper
  • Totally organic calming ingredients
  • Easy to administer
Cons
  • Not suitable for pregnant or nursing animals
  • Not all owners like putting it in their dog’s mouth
Show More

10 Best Tablets: Nutramax Solliquin Soft Chews Calming Supplement for Dogs

Best Tablets: Nutramax Solliquin Soft Chews Calming Supplement for Dogs
Key features:
  • Designed for longer term use
  • Best calming treats for chronic anxiety
  • Tasty calming treats that dogs love
  • Used as part of a treatment plan

You will need a vet visit to obtain Nutramax Solliquin Soft Chews Calming Supplement for Cats & Dogs but they have great calming properties. As well as L Theanine, the ingredients list features extracts of Magnolia Officinalis and Phellodendron Amurense.

They are designed to be used as part of a wider treatment plan for general anxiety and destructive behaviors. Your vet may recommend other treatments and therapies at the same time. You may find these the best calming chews for more severe and generalised fears such as age related anxiety. This calming treatment can help an anxious dog that is excessively barking, grooming or spraying.

Ingredients:

Active Ingredients: Extracts Of Magnolia Officinalis And Phellodendron Amurense 75 mg, L-Theanine 35 mg, Dried Whey Protein Concentrate 25 mg.

Other Ingredients: Brewers Dried Yeast, Glycerin, Green Tea Extract, Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Natural Flavor, Rosemary Extract, Silicon Dioxide, Starch, And Vegetable Oil.

What others say about it:
image

I saw this product featured on the Lucky Dog series. I got it hoping ot would help my ultra anxious little dog. It was exceptional. I’ve tried various products in order not to have to give her tranquilizers. This product has been the most effective for my dog.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • Combination of active ingredients
  • Used for more severe dog anxiety
Cons
  • Can only be obtained from a vet
  • Have to be used as part of a wider treatment program
Show More

11 Best Spray: NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Spray for Dogs

Best Spray: NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Spray for Dogs
Key features:
  • Spray can be used in cars or the home
  • Helps a dog relax in a new bed or crate
  • Contains valerian root and chamomile extract
  • All natural ingredients

NaturVet Quiet Moments Simulated Canine Pheromones Calming Spray for Dogs is a herbal spray that can be used for dogs over three months of age. It is useful for anxious dogs and those that develop anxiety when they have to go on a car journey or to the vet. The spray contains ingredients that simulate calming pheromones and is suitable for all dog breeds.

The spray can be used in cars and crates and any new environment that is making your dog anxious. You do not spray it directly on your dog. Once sprayed, you can expect calming effect to work for most dogs for up to 10 hours.

Ingredients:

Valerian Root Extract, Chamomile Extract, Rosemary Extract, Clove Oil.

What others say about it:
image

I brought a new puppy home from a traumatic night in a mobile kennel from Ohio to NYC. I sprayed this stuff on some of her toys and inside her blanket that I prepared for her, and she went right to it and laid down and took a nap!!! I also use this stuff to calm her down when she’s whining at night, and it works!

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Pros
  • Your dog does not have to ingest anything
  • Can be used for car journeys
  • Smells very pleasant
  • All natural ingredients
Cons
  • Not suitable for a fear of loud noises
  • Probably won’t help with generalized severe anxiety
Show More

12 Best for Large Dogs: Pet Naturals Calming Dog Chews for Extra Large Dogs

Best for Large Dogs: Pet Naturals Calming Dog Chews for Extra Large Dogs
Key features:
  • Calming treats for dogs over 75 pounds
  • No wheat or corn
  • Fast acting and long lasting
  • Can be used for stressful events

Pet Naturals Calming Dog Chews for Extra Large Dogs are the best calming treats for you if you have a large dog that suffers from separation anxiety or a fear of loud noises, car journeys and so on. These calming bites contain a blend of active ingredients including L theanine, thiamine and colostrum calming complex.

These calming treats can help to tackle unwanted behaviors in anxious dogs including excessive barking and aggression which can be an alarming problem in big dogs. You can either use them everyday or just when you need them and they take 20 minutes to work. You can expect the effect to last for up to 6 hours.

Ingredients:

Active Ingredients: (Per 1 Chew) Thiamine (Vitamin B1), 200 mg, L-Theanine (Suntheanine® brand), 65 mg, Colostrum Calming Complex, 30 mg.

Inactive Ingredients: Arabic Gum, Brewers Yeast, Calcium Sulfate, Canola Oil, Chicken Liver Flavor, Citric Acid, Glycerin, Maltodextrin, Mixed Tocopherols, Oat Flour, Oat Meal, Pectin, Propionic Acid, Rosemary Extract, Rye Flour, Silicon Dioxide, Sodium Alginate, Sorbic Acid, Soy Lecithin, Vegetable Oil, Water.

What others say about it:
image

We have a pit bull boxer with separation anxiety. A ball of energy. These help him to calm down, and we use them at night to help him sleep through the night. They really work well, he loves them, and they don’t leave him groggy.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • Specifically formulated for large dogs
  • No artificial ingredients
  • Can be used every day if needed
  • Tackles anxious behaviors
Cons
  • Not suitable for smaller dogs
  • Dog has to ingest them
Show More

Best Dog Calming Supplements: Buying Guide & FAQs

What Are The Symptoms Of Anxiety In Dogs?

Talking in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, an expert in animal behavior described the symptoms of anxiety in dogs as  hyperactivity and destructive activity. Anxious animals may pant, pace, try to escape or destroy things. Other signs are more subtle and include lip licking and yawning. In extreme cases dogs can become unresponsive and almost comatose – they cannot move. In humans, this would be described as a panic attack.

The American Kennel Club describes some other symptoms of anxiety in dogs as:

What Causes Anxiety In Dogs?

Funny Sleepy Fat Pug Dog with gum in the eye sleep rest on mat floor

A dog’s anxiety can have many causes and can change over time. Overall, anxiety in dogs falls into the following three categories:

Fear-related anxiety

Here your dog’s anxiety is caused by an external stimulus or event. Some dogs are scared of other dogs, some are scared of loud noises or hats or umbrellas. It is quite common for dogs to be anxious about unfamiliar environments such as the vet’s office, the car or a new house.

Separation anxiety

Most dogs would prefer to be with their owners than alone but others have more severe separation anxiety. This affects around 14% of dogs and leaves dogs unable to comfort themselves when they are alone. Sadly, this type of separation anxiety often results in destructive behavior towards the fabric of the house and barking which can annoy the neighbors.

Age-related anxiety

Older dogs can develop a condition called cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) where they have problems with their memory, perception and awareness. It is similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans and makes them very anxious as they struggle to make sense of the world around them. This requires a long term treatment approach.

Do Calming Supplements For Dogs Actually Work?

The owner gives his dog food for doing a command

Calming treats and other products to tackle anxiety in dogs are widely available. Some have to be obtained through your vet but others can be purchased from a pet store. The big question is whether they actually work? The answer is both yes and no.

There is research to show that a lack of the amino acid L tryptophan can lead to aggression, moodiness and depression in dogs. Therefore, by giving your dog calming treats containing L tryptophan you can make them calmer – but only if this is the cause of the problem. As with many psychological conditions, the cause of anxiety is often multi-factorial and complex.

On the whole, experts believe that calming treats and other products can work in cases of mild anxiety. They can ‘take the edge off’ a stressful situation for your dog and help them cope with it.

However, calming treats cannot help with cases of extreme anxiety which will need to be managed by your vet. They are also not a substitute for training and fulfilling your dog’s needs for mental and physical stimulation. They are only part of the solution for separation anxiety.

Different Types of Dog Calming Supplements

Anxiety supplements for dogs come in several different forms. Here’s a run down of the options that you have.

Treats

Calming treats are a great option as dogs are usually always up for a dog treat. On the whole they are easy to give your dog and are clean and easy to handle. You just have to make sure that you give the correct dose and pick calming dog treats that have no ingredients that will cause issues for your dog.

Powders

Powders are designed to be sprinkled onto dog’s food so they are ingested. Most dogs will have no problem with this but there can be an issue if your dog is a fussy eater. You will not know how much of the powder they have ingested.

Tablets&Capsules

These are also clean and neat ways of giving a calming product to your dog. Some anxiety pills for dogs can also be opened up and the contents sprinkled on food. The number of pills you give is usually dictated by the size of your dog. Calming pills for dogs that you buy yourself have natural ingredients in them but the ones you obtain from your vet may be stronger.

Liquid/Drops

Some natural calming supplements for dogs are supplied as liquid or drops. Most dogs will let you put them directly in their mouth but others are not so co-operative. They usually contain herbal or flower-based ingredients that have a gentle effect. There may be the option to add them to your dog’s drinking bowl but this means you are not in control of when they take the treatment.

Spray

This may be the best option for an anxious dog that has an issue with a particular location such as a new crate or your car. You spray the location a few minutes before you lead your dog in. The spray often mimics natural pheromones and this makes your dog feel calmer in the new environment.

What are the Benefits of Using Calming Supplements for Dogs

Adorable calm dog resting near sofa

No one wants their pooch to be unhappy and nervous and the obvious benefit of calming treats and other products is that your dog will be happier. However, there are plenty of benefits for you too.

An anxious dog displays behavior that can be hard to deal with. They may bark excessively which is annoying for everyone, they can be aggressive which is clearly dangerous and they can damage your house. Anxious dogs are also disobedient and unpredictable and this can present a danger to both themselves and their owners. It is in everyone’s interests to keep their dog as calm as possible.

What To Look For In Dog Supplements For Anxiety

New supplement Dark-haired woman in a striped blouse looking interested

You will be faced with a bewildering array of products so we have listed some of the main things that you should look out for:

  • Has the product been tested? Look for products that contain calming ingredients that have been tested by veterinary scientists. Melatonin, chamomile, CBD, and L-tryptophan are all recognized ingredients that help with dog anxiety. This is more important than claims made by the manufacturer that have no evidence to back them up. A lack of some amino acids has been clinically linked to anxiety so any product containing these is superior.
  •  Is is suitable for your dog? Check that the product is suitable for your dog’s breed, age and weight. Some products cannot be used on your pups. Others are designed specifically for larger dogs. Not all products are safe for pregnant or nursing dogs.
  • Is it right for your dog’s anxiety? There are different types of dog anxiety. If your dog has separation anxiety you need a product that helps with that. If fear of a crate or a car is the issue, perhaps a spray that you can use in these locations would be best.
  • How will your dog take it? If your dog will not swallow capsules then you need to avoid them. Also, if your dog is a fussy eater avoid powders that are sprinkled on food. Chews are a good option if you are also concerned about your dog’s dental health.
  • What are the ingredients? As well as the active calming ingredients, check out the inactive ingredients as there can be things here that can trigger allergies. Most owners prefer products that are based on natural ingredients. If your dog suffers from car anxiety, additional ingredients such as ginger that help with car sickness can be useful.
  • Where is it made? Some dog owners prefer products that are made in the USA under strict safety and quality standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Calming supplements for dogs are products that are designed to alleviate canine anxiety. They work in different ways depending on their active ingredients. Some contain botanics and herbs that have calming properties such as chamomile. Others contain amino acids – it is known that if your dog is deficient in these they can appear more anxious. You will find that some products contain elements from cow’s milk that induce a more relaxed state. Finally, some mimic natural pheromones that make a dog feel more secure and safe and therefore more relaxed.

Many owners worry are calming treats safe and the answer is yes they are for most dogs. Most active calming ingredients that you will come across such as melatonin, chamomile, valerian root, L-tryptophan, and hemp have been widely tested on dogs for a number of years. However, if you are giving calming treats or supplements to your dog for the first time, always talk to your vet. There may be another underlying condition that is causing the symptoms. Also, proceed with caution – always use the minimum dose first. If there is no reaction, you can build up to a larger dose.

Most products work within 30 minutes or so. However, the effect can be very subtle and it varies between dogs. Some products are not designed to work right away. Your dog may need to take them every day for several months before an effect will be seen.

This depends on the calming treats. Many are designed to be used now and again when your dog is facing a stressful event such as fireworks or a trip in the car. If you are having to use them everyday there may be other steps that you need to take to support your dog and you should speak to your vet.

On the other hand, some are designed to be taken every and the effect builds up. Always talk to your vet before using any calming products.

Nearly all calming treats rely on natural active ingredients which are safe for dogs but they should still only take the recommended dose. This is usually worked out according to your dog’s weight and/or age. If your dog accidentally ingests too many calming treats, you should contact your vet right away.

Different dogs respond to different natural ingredients so you may need to try a few products before you find what works best for your dog. Some dogs respond best to botanical ingredients but others respond best to pheromones. The best calming product for your dog is also the one that they are willing to take. If your dog persistently spits out chews, you will need to try drops or a powder.

According to the American Kennel Club, Benadryl is primarily a treatment for allergies. It successfully treats symptoms such as hives, runny noses, coughing and sneezing in dogs. However, it also causes drowziness and this has led to it being used to treat anxiety.

It should only be used under the direction of a vet and is best used for a specific event such as a car journey – it also helps with motion sickness. If your dog is generally anxious, you should speak to your vet about alternative treatments.

Sharon Parry

Sharon is a Ph.D. scientist and experienced pet content writer. As a life-long animal lover, she now shares her family home with three rabbits, a Syrian hamster, and a Cockapoo puppy. She has a passion for researching accurate and credible information about pets and turning it into easy-to-understand articles that offer practical tips. When it comes to our furry friends, she knows that there is always something new to learn!