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Dogs can experience stress and anxiety for many reasons – fireworks, thunderstorms, other noises such as vacuums and home alarms, a fear of strangers, separation from their pet parents and more.
According to Frontiers in Veterinary Science, as many as half of dogs become anxious because of noises, while 20 to 40 percent of dogs experience anxiety due to separation from their pet parents, says Anicira, a nonprofit vet services provider.
Stress associated with fear and anxiety can negatively impact pets’ health, welfare, behavior, and lifespan, so pet parents need to recognize and address it. Stress responses to loud noises include panting, hiding, pacing, cowering, shaking, barking, escape attempts, hiding, and seeking out familiar people.
More pet parents are turning to calming treats, which contain ingredients meant to soothe dogs such as hemp seed powder, chamomile, valerian root, and L-theanine. Some formulations of calming treats are meant to work immediately, while others are suggested for long-term use. Keep in mind that many of these supplements have not been thoroughly studied in animals, but they tend not to cause many side effects, so they may be worth a try.
What are calming treats?
Calming treats are specially formulated snacks that can help reduce anxiety and stress in dogs. These treats often contain natural ingredients known for their calming effects, such as herbs, amino acids, and other soothing substances.
Here are some common ingredients in calming treats:
- L-Theanine: This amino acid in green tea has been shown to promote relaxation without causing drowsiness. It works by increasing dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain, which are vital for mood regulation. It’s especially beneficial for noise phobias, according to ResearchGate.
- Valerian Root: Often used in human herbal supplements, valerian root can also benefit dogs, although research in dogs is scant, PetMD says. It’s known for its sedative properties in people and can help alleviate anxiety, especially during stressful events like vet visits or thunderstorms.
- Chamomile: Many people know chamomile as a soothing tea for humans. However, VCA animal hospitals say the evidence is mostly anecdotalhttps://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/chamomile. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and calming effects, chamomile can also help calm dogs.
- CBD Oil: Cannabidiol (CBD) has gained popularity in recent years for its potential to relieve anxiety in both humans and pets. While research is inconclusive on its effectiveness, many pet parents report improvements in their dogs’ anxiety levels when using CBD-infused treats. A study in the Frontiers in Veterinary Science found it safe for dogs.
- Passionflower: This flowering plant is believed to have calming effects and can help reduce anxiety and agitation in dogs, although research is limited.
Popular calming treats
Here are some calming treats customers give positive reviews to that you might want to consider for your furry friend:
- Pawfy is a pet chew brand that offers supplement blends, including turkey-flavored chews, which are a safe way to lower anxiety and relax muscles. The chews calm the gut and release feel-good serotonin levels without causing drowsiness, the company says.
- Maev is a raw dog food company that sells anxiety and calming supplement bars, with ingredients such as L-Theanine and vitamin E. “My dogs love these. They tend to be hyper because they are small dogs, but this completely relaxes them. Also, when they become anxious, it makes them a lot more mellow,” one customer said.
- Wuffes CBD Isolate Oil: The company says it alleviates stress and anxiety, as well as reducing discomfort and inflammation associated with normal exercise and aging. “My Winston has always been prone to anxiety, especially during thunderstorms and fireworks. I started using this CBD Isolate oil, and it’s made such a difference! It calms him down and helps him relax without making him drowsy,” a customer reported.
- Zesty Paws Calming Bites: These treats contain ingredients like L-Theanine, chamomile, valerian root, and Ashwagandha, making them a popular choice among dog parents seeking a natural solution to their pets’ anxiety. “I put these in my dog’s food and he was a totally different dog as the afternoon went on. Better connection together, no chewing his paws, no aggressive behavior on walks, usually very anxious. Total loved our connections after this chew,” one reviewer said.
- Paw CBD Calming Treats: Infused with CBD, these treats provide a natural method for addressing anxiety in dogs. They also contain ingredients like chamomile and passionflower for enhanced calming effects. “Really helps calm my girl down. She’s been taking it for a few years now. She loves the peanut butter flavor!” one customer said.
Using calming treats safely
While calming treats can be beneficial, it’s essential to use them responsibly:
Consult your vet: Before introducing any new supplements or treats into your dog’s diet, especially if they have underlying health issues or are on medication, consult your veterinarian.
Follow recommended dosages: Stick to the dosage guidelines provided on the treat packaging. Overfeeding calming treats can lead to unwanted side effects.
Monitor your dog’s response: Observe your pet’s behavior after giving them calming treats. Each dog may react differently, and it’s essential to find the right fit for your furry friend.
Conclusion
Calming treats can be a helpful tool in managing your dog’s anxiety and providing comfort during stressful situations. With various options available, you can choose treats that best align with your dog’s preferences and needs. Always remember to consult your veterinarian for personalized advice. By taking steps to reduce anxiety, you’ll not only improve your dog’s quality of life but also strengthen the bond you share.
