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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.
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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 effect on dogs, so what you need them for can also depend on your dog’s specific situation. The best decision ultimately depends on many factors, including your dog’s breed, allergies, and the reason for the calming treat.
Different Ingredients Treats Target Different Stressors
There isn’t a standardized formula for dog calming treats. Each product will have its own unique ingredients designed to relieve your dog’s anxiety or calm their excitability. But different ingredients have different purposes. And, while some ingredients have been tested through studies, research isn’t 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 help 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.
What to Consider 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 as chewable, flavored tablets, but others come as oils. You may consider drizzling a calming oil over their dry food if you’re concerned that your dog might spit a 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 calming treats offer joint health benefits, 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 option for short-lived stressors, such as firework displays.
Dietary Restrictions for Dog Calming Treats
While many calming dog treats share some common ingredients, each will have its own unique 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 boundless enthusiasm and eagerness to engage in 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 by incorporating treats containing chamomile and melatonin into their diets.
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 for My Dog?
Finding the ideal dog calming treat can be a trial-and-error process. It may take several brand and ingredient combinations before you achieve 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. Working with an animal behavioral specialist would be a more effective method to address these issues.
Finally, be aware that some conditions extend 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 seeking to alleviate anxiety, discourage destructive behaviors, or comfort an aging dog. However, these treats aren’t 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. You could also utilize a calming spray or diffuser. 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 Using Dog Calming Treats
As dog lovers, we want to minimize risks to our dogs’ health as much 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, such as 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.