7 best calming aids for dogs, according to vets

Dogs, like humans, can develop anxiety. Sometimes, it’s situational — loud noises, such as thunder or fireworks, can stress out our furry friends. Other dogs are anxious more frequently, perhaps because of a previous traumatic experience.

We want our pups to be happy and healthy, physically and mentally. The best high-quality calming aids may help your dog feel less anxious and have limited potential side effects. The catch? You’ll need to find the right fit for your pup.

Don’t worry though, we’ve compiled a list of the best calming aids for dogs, helping to shorten your research time and improve your furry friend’s quality of life.

Our top pick: Vetriscience Composure

Our natural pick: Native Pet Calming Chew

Best calming treat: Premium Care Calming Chews

Best nighttime chew: Zesty Paws Advanced Calming Bites

Best calming bed: PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed

Best toy for calming dogs: Kong Extreme

Best calming collar: Sentry Calming Collar

How we chose the best calming aids for dogs

Dr. Irish helped us formulate this list. She took a close look at the calming supplements on our list to ensure they’re safe and effective for your pup to use. Calming supplements alone may not be enough to soothe your anxious pet. That’s why we also suggested other products: such as a comfortable bed, a challenging toy, and a calming collar. Dr. Irish also recommends calming probiotics like Purina ProPlan’s Calming Care.

👉 Your veterinarian can help you make a plan for soothing your anxious dog. Severe anxiety may require anxiety medications or behavioral training.

Does my dog need a calming aid?

Calming treats, supplements, and other aids may help dogs who experience:

• Separation anxiety
• Situational anxiety
• Sleep issues

Daily supplements may be necessary for dogs with persistent anxiety You may not need to supplement daily for dogs with situational anxiety. Instead, you might try a supplement 1 to 2 hours before the anxiety-causing event. Calming supplements are generally most effective in dogs with mild general and situational anxiety.

Ingredients to look for in calming chews

Calming supplements usually work best if they have a variety of ingredients that can work in conjunction to reduce anxiety.

• Valerian root. Many researchers believe valerian root increases the amount of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) in the brain. GABA provides a calming effect on the brain, allowing your pup to relax. The supplement has a sedative effect, so expect your dog to become a little drowsy.
• Melatonin. Melatonin can also increase the functioning of GABA in the brain and reduce the feeling of fear. Melatonin is generally considered safe by vets, but there aren’t many canine-specific studies. As always, consult your vet before giving your dog melatonin-based supplements. Watch out for ones with xylitol as an ingredient.
• L-theanine. L-theanine works by increasing serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain, which produces a calming effect. It’s the main ingredient in most calming supplements for dogs and can be used for a variety of anxious conditions. Give your dog a supplement about one hour before an anticipated anxious event.
• L-tryptophan. Low levels of L-tryptophan in the body have been associated with anxiety, mood disorders, and depressive symptoms. So it makes sense that if you provide extra tryptophan in the body, feelings of anxiety may be reduced. Tryptophan also increases the amount of serotonin, the happy hormone, in your pup’s brain.
• Chamomile. Chamomile is an herbal extract with anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and muscle-relaxing properties. It can help with relaxation though it has mildly sedative properties, thus helping to relieve anxiety. It can also decrease anxiety-related gastrointestinal disturbances, such as gas, pain, and bloating.
• Hemp oil. Hemp oil and CBD oil are incredibly popular among dog owners these days. While there’s anecdotal evidence that CBD is effective, there’s still a lot of research to do. Scientific findings have yet to prove the oil’s consistent efficacy and safety profile.

👉 If you do try CBD oil with your dog, make sure it’s manufactured specifically for dogs and follow the label instructions precisely to avoid adverse reactions. Dr. Irish also recommends looking for companies that readily provide laboratory data ensuring their products do not contain THC, the compound found in marijuana that leads to changes in consciousness and perception. ElleVet Sciences would be a good option to consider for many.

• Passionflower. Passionflower is a natural herbal supplement that’s considered to be a mood enhancer. It can produce a calming effect in your pup but is best if given before a trigger sets them off.
• Colostrum. Colostrum is a milk protein that is derived from the first milk produced by a lactating female. The colostrum used in supplements is typically obtained from cows. There’s also evidence that certain milk proteins may help with anxiety as well.

Frequently asked questions

What is a natural calming supplement for dogs?

Natural calming supplements contain a single or combination of natural ingredients to help dogs chill. Some chews include chamomile,  L-theanine, and valerian root.

What is the best calming agent for dogs?

Ultimately, the best calming supplement for your pup will depend on your furbaby’s needs and preferences. We selected Vetriscience Composure as our top pick based on its stellar reputation and simple ingredients that are proven to aid anxious pups.

Are calming supplements good for dogs?

Generally, calming supplements are safe for dogs. But you’ll want your dog’s vet to review the product’s ingredients before giving it to your dog. Some ingredients may interfere with other medications your pup is taking.

How do I calm a nervous dog?

Calming supplements can help calm a nervous dog, but there are other methods, too. Exercise, pheromones, calming vests, and training can all help. You could also try soothing music or white noise, a comfortable bed in a dedicated space such as a (roomy) closet or basement, and, of course, snuggles from you. In some cases, a prescription from the vet may be the best solution.