The Top 5 Must-Have Calming Products for Anxious Dogs: Expert Reviews and Recommendations

As an affiliate marketer, Us Weekly may be compensated for promoting certain products and services. If you’re looking for ways to soothe your furry friend’s stress levels, CBD products can be a great option for both you and your pet. Although the CBD market is not yet fully regulated, there are reputable brands that specialize in safe and effective calming treats for dogs and other animal companions. To make things easier for you, we’ve narrowed down the top 5 brands that we recommend for alleviating pet anxiety.

Solliquin Behavior Supplement for Dogs & Cats (60 count)

These chews are suitable for both cats and dogs experiencing anxiety, but bear in mind that optimal results are seen after a consistent intake over a period of 30-45 days. While not recommended as a solution for single anxiety-inducing events such as vet visits, they are recommended for dogs with persistent anxiety who require ongoing support.

Thundershirt Dog Anxiety Treatment

Why we recommend it: Thundershirts offer dogs a sense of comfort and security, similar to a warm embrace.

Things to keep in mind: Thundershirts may not be suitable for dogs traveling as cargo on an airplane.

If you’re on the hunt for a solution to ease your dog’s anxiety during travel, Thundershirts are a popular choice among pet owners. These compression vests apply gentle pressure around your dog’s torso, mimicking the sensation of a hug and providing a reassuring touch that can help calm them down in stressful situations. Dr. Steph Sheen suggests using Thundershirts for immediate, acute anxiety, such as car rides or short flights. Thundershirts come in a range of sizes suitable for dogs with chest measurements of 9 to 50 inches, making it easy to find the right fit for your furry friend. We recommend bringing a Thundershirt with you on trips as a precautionary measure, especially if your dog is prone to anxiety-inducing events like thunderstorms or fireworks. However, keep in mind that Thundershirts may not be allowed on dogs traveling as cargo on an airplane due to safety regulations.

Gentle on stomachs

Sensitive stomachs can be triggered by stress in both dogs and humans. Therefore, it’s important to show tender love and care to our anxious furry friends. Premium Care’s Calming Chews offer soothing relief for stress-induced situations without causing GI problems. Plus, Premium Care is so confident in their chews that they offer a full refund if they don’t work for your pooch. 

The ingredients in these calming chews include chamomile, valerian root, L-tryptophan, and hemp oil. While the first three are safe and effective at reducing anxiety, the effectiveness of hemp oil is still under scientific study. One notable side effect of the ingredients is drowsiness. 

Natural ingredients are at the forefront of these chews, as they are dye-free and have a light green, soft consistency. They also taste great! These duck-flavored chews are not only calming, but a delicious treat too. Furthermore, they have a light hemp smell.

Finally, Dr. Irish approves of the majority of the ingredients in the Calming Chews, noting that scientists are still studying the use of hemp oil. However, she is reassured by Premium Care’s guarantee and rave reviews from satisfied pet owners.

VetriScience Composure Soft Chews Calming Treats

This veterinarian-developed supplement, with a delicious chicken flavor, is designed to relax dogs for up to four hours without the use of sedatives. Chewy’s user reviews are varied: Some raved about its effectiveness for separation anxiety, while others reported that it was better suited for less severe situations such as car rides. Other reviewers found these calming snacks less effective than alternatives like Thundershirts. Nevertheless, they can work quickly; VetriScience claims that the calming effects should begin in just 30 minutes. Here are some additional particulars to keep in mind: 

– This product is available in packs of 30, 60, 90, or 120, as well as in a liquid form. 

– Its use is adaptable, with the choice to administer it daily or only as needed, with the option to adjust the dosage for high-stress situations. 

– Its active ingredients are Thiamine, L-Theanine, and Colostrum Calming Complex, a proprietary blend of calming agents.

– A comparable product for cats is also available.

Pupper Calm Dog Treats

Pupper Calm Dog Treats are the perfect solution for pet owners looking to soothe their pup’s anxiety. Whether your dog is scared of thunderstorms, car rides, or new places, these treats are specially formulated to calm their mind and body. Made with a unique blend of natural, organic herbs, including passion flower, chamomile, L-theanine, lemon balm, melatonin, and ashwagandha, these beef and oat flavored chews are sure to become your pup’s new favorite snack.

When shopping for calming supplements, it is important to consider the ingredients. Opting for high-quality products that source their components from reputable sources is crucial. Organic options are recommended, and products free from artificial preservatives, colorings, or flavors should be preferred. Soft chews are a popular form of calming supplements, but liquid formulas are also available. When selecting products, be mindful of hemp quality as it absorbs heavy metals from the soil. Choosing organic hemp products with third-party testing guarantees a clean and safe supplement for your furry friend.

FAQs

Are calming treats safe for dogs?

Yes, in general, calming treats are safe for dogs. Most are made with natural ingredients such as melatonin, chamomile, valerian root, L-tryptophan, and hemp to promote calming and stress relief.

That being said, all dogs react differently to active ingredients in calming treats. So, it’s important to talk to your veterinarian before offering new treats and to monitor your dog for any side effects or reactions. Calming treats may produce a drowsy or sedative effect.

Make sure to look for calming dog treats that are veterinarian formulated or recommended, that undergo testing to verify ingredients and potency labels, and that have transparent and high-quality manufacturing processes.  

Are hemp calming treats safe for dogs?

Yes, hemp calming treats—made with or without CBD—are safe for dogs. Hemp dog treats made with cannabidiol (CBD), contain less than .03 percent THC and will not get your pet high. While most hemp dog treats are safe for dogs, make sure to check the ingredient label and discuss the treats with your veterinarian to make sure they are a good fit for your individual pet. 

Are calming treats safe for puppies?

Before giving a calming treat to your puppy, it’s a good idea to check the dosing instructions to ensure the treat is safe for young dogs. Many calming treats are formulated for all life stages, but some are not recommended for puppies. Follow the manufacturer directions and reach out to your veterinarian if you have any questions about giving your puppy calming treats. 

Do calming treats work for dogs?

Calming treats do provide a reduction in stress and anxiety for some dogs. However, all dogs are different, and there is no guarantee that calming treats will work for an individual dog. You may need to try different types of calming treats with different ingredients to find a formulation that works for your dog. 

Hello, everyone! I'm David Henry, a dedicated customer and enthusiastic reviewer of Tractor Supply Company. As a farmer and agriculture enthusiast, I frequently visit Tractor Supply Company to explore and purchase a wide range of agricultural supplies, tools, and equipment. Over the years, I have accumulated extensive experience and knowledge in shopping at Tractor Supply Company, and I aim to help others make wiser choices through my sharing. I understand the importance of selecting the right products for farmers, ranchers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. That's why I enjoy sharing my insights and recommendations to assist individuals in finding the best-suited products for their needs. Join me as we embark on a journey of discovering quality products and making informed decisions at Tractor Supply Company. Together, let's enhance our farming and outdoor experiences through valuable insights and practical advice.