Picture two dogs. One is an active Australian Shepherd who seems to run on an endless supply of energy. The other is a timid Italian Greyhound who constantly hides under the couch in the presence of strangers, fireworks, or the front door closing too loudly. While these dogs may seem different at first, they have one thing in common: both could benefit from over-the-counter calming treats.
Many of these products rely on ingredients, such as melatonin and chamomile flower, to help anxious or high-energy dogs become more tranquil. But with so many different types, it can be difficult to choose the right one for your pet. Many of these have a generalized calming affect on dogs, so what you need them for can also depend. The best decision ultimately depends on many factors, including your dog’s breed, allergies, and the reason for the calming treat.
Different Ingredients in Dog Calming Treats Target Different Stressors
There isn’t a standardized formula for dog calming treats. Each product will have its own ingredients aimed at relieving your dog’s anxiety or putting the brakes on their excitability. Yet, different ingredients have different purposes. And, while some ingredients have been tested through studies, research is not always done on the calming treats themselves.
Dogs with sensitive stomachs may become anxious in response to pain, gas, and discomfort. Here, a calming treat with ginger root could be beneficial, as the ingredient would soothe both their tummies and anxiety. An older dog who feels anxious at night may benefit from a treat with melatonin to help them sleep.
Other ingredients and their benefits include:
- L-tryptophan, a natural amino acid that promotes the production of serotonin
- L-theanine, another amino acid used to alleviate anxiety
- Valerian root, which is shown to act as a mild sedative
- Cannabidiol (CBD), which studies suggest can lower cortisol levels
- Chamomile flower, an herb commonly used to soothe upset stomachs
- Thiamine (B1), a vitamin that targets the central nervous system
- Passionflower, which can be used to soothe dogs with acute anxiety
Talk to your dog’s veterinarian before administering calming treats, even if you purchased them over the counter. The term “all-natural” doesn’t necessarily mean the treat is safe for your dog. Some even contain traces of harmful ingredients, like garlic, which can cause serious health complications. Your veterinarian can review the ingredients of a calming treat and explain whether it’s safe.
Considerations When Purchasing Dog Calming Treats
You can streamline your search for the right calming supplement by considering some unique factors that apply to different kinds of treats.
Types of Dog Calming Treats
Many calming treats come in a chewable flavored tablet, but others come as oils. You may consider drizzling a calming oil over their dry food if your dog might spit the treat out.
You may also purchase treats that offer benefits in addition to anxiety relief. Dental sticks blended with hemp and melatonin clean your dog’s teeth while also offering a short activity. Other treats offer joint health supplements, thanks to their high levels of healthy omega fatty acids.
How Long Does the Dog Calming Treat Last
Depending on a treat’s active ingredients, it could last anywhere from four to eight hours. You may choose a long-lasting treat for road trips or a more temporary treat for short-lived stressors, like firework displays.
Dietary Restrictions for Dog Calming Treats
While there are some common ingredients in many calming dog treats, each will have its own specific formula. For example, some dog calming treats are flavored with chicken, a common allergy in many breeds. Check the treat’s packaging to ensure that it only contains ingredients your dog can tolerate.
How Quickly Do Dog Calming Treats Work?
Fast-acting treats are ideal for unexpected events that call for immediate relief, such as during loud rolling thunderstorms. Treats that take longer to “kick in” might be ideal for non-urgent situations, like before bedtime.
What Dogs Can Benefit From Calming Treats?
It’s a common misconception that only perpetually anxious dogs can benefit from calming treats. In reality, dogs of different ages, sizes, and breeds can benefit from these products. Senior dogs, for instance, can develop symptoms similar to dementia in humans, causing them to feel anxious in situations they normally wouldn’t.
High-energy dogs, such as Border Collies and Australian Cattle Dogs, are known for their endless enthusiasm for hours-long play sessions. While these working dogs should have an outlet to thrive, they can become easily bored and resort to destructive behaviors. With the correct dosage, these dogs can find a healthy balance with treats containing chamomile and melatonin.
Some new owners wonder whether they can use calming treats for puppies. The short answer is yes. However, as with adding anything new to your dog’s diet, you should consult a vet first.
What if Calming Treats Don’t Work on My Dog?
Finding the ideal dog calming treat can be a trial-and-error process. It might take several brands and ingredient combinations before you get the desired result. Before ruling out dog calming treats altogether, here are some things to consider.
First, ensure you understand the dosage instructions before offering these treats to your dog. Your dog’s weight plays a major role in how quickly their body metabolizes certain substances. One treat might not equal one serving. In fact, larger dogs may need multiple treats to achieve the intended effect. Note: this isn’t to say that more treats necessarily equal better results.
You may also need to readjust your expectations about dog calming treats and their effect on your pet. These products won’t override inherent traits found in some breeds or cancel out reactivity stemming from traumatic events. These issues are best addressed with the assistance of an animal behavioral specialist.
Finally, know that some conditions go beyond the scope of over-the-counter treats and supplements. A veterinarian may advise you on whether prescription medications could help your dog thrive. These could include antidepressants or benzodiazepines, such as diazepam (Valium).
Alternatives to Dog Calming Treats
Dog calming treats are a great resource for owners looking to relieve anxiety, discourage destructive behaviors, or soothe an aging dog. However, these treats aren’t intended to be all-encompassing solutions. They’re tools that, in combination with other targeted efforts, can promote your dog’s quality of life.
For example, you could:
- Drizzle a CBD oil over your dog’s breakfast the morning of a long car ride. In transit, you also attempt to create a positive association with the experience using praise and other high-value treats.
- Leave behind toys and interactive games for a dog who struggles with separation anxiety, in addition to administering a calming treat.
- Try participating in an activity, like agility or freestyle, to meet the needs of a high-energy breed.
There are even some alternatives to calming treats themselves. One such alternative is a soothing collar. These products release pheromones that trigger the same comforting response a puppy would feel from its mother. Anxiety vests or apparel are another alternative to calming treats. Generally designed as a vest or wrap, these items provide gentle, constant pressure over the dog’s body, like a long hug.
Talk to Your Vet Before Administering Dog Calming Treats
As dog lovers, we want to take as few risks with our dogs’ health as possible. Whether you’re aiming to soothe an anxious dog or prevent reactivity, a veterinarian can offer insight into what options you have for meeting that goal.
Unlike testing for human supplements, there is no standard testing for pet supplements on things like calming treats or behavioral supplements. In many cases, that can mean a range in quality between different brands of calming treats.
By working closely with a veterinary professional, you can rest assured that you’re providing the safest and most effective method for your dog’s condition.
This article is intended solely as general guidance, and does not constitute health or other professional advice. Individual situations and applicable laws vary by jurisdiction, and you are encouraged to obtain appropriate advice from qualified professionals in the applicable jurisdictions. We make no representations or warranties concerning any course of action taken by any person following or otherwise using the information offered or provided in this article, including any such information associated with and provided in connection with third-party products, and we will not be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, exemplary or other damages that may result, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness or death.