Dog anxiety is a common and often debilitating condition that can significantly impact a dog’s quality of life and the bond they share with their owners. Fortunately, a range of treatment options are available, with a veterinarian being the primary resource for diagnosis and guidance. This article explores the various medications used to manage anxiety in dogs, how they work, and important considerations for their use.
How Dog Anxiety Medications Work
Anti-anxiety medications for dogs are designed to help them feel calmer, but they are most effective when combined with behavior modification techniques. While medication addresses the emotional response, behavior modification helps dogs learn to cope with anxiety-inducing triggers and events, fostering a more relaxed state. Medication alone rarely resolves anxiety completely, making a comprehensive approach essential. Canine anxiety medications are available for both short-term and long-term use, addressing a spectrum of behavioral issues including fear, stress, impulsivity, obsessive behaviors, panic disorders, and aversions to specific stimuli. It is crucial to understand that there are no quick fixes for dog anxiety, and working with a certified behaviorist or trainer is paramount. For long-term conditions, it may take four to six weeks for medication to show full effectiveness, with treatment continuing for at least two months after a positive response is observed.
Long-Term vs. Short-Term Anxiety Medications for Dogs
Some dogs can eventually be weaned off anxiety medications through behavioral therapy, while others require ongoing treatment. Short-term medications are beneficial for anxiety triggered by specific circumstances like car rides, veterinary visits, or thunderstorms. These medications act quickly and have a limited duration. For milder sensitivities, owners can explore management and desensitization strategies alongside medication, such as introducing a travel crate for car rides or using a white noise machine during storms. Dogs on long-term medication (six months or more) require yearly checkups, blood work, and periodic behavior re-evaluations to ensure their treatment plan remains optimal.
Common Anxiety Medications for Dogs
While Clomicalm, Reconcile, and Sileo are the only FDA-approved medications for dogs, veterinarians often prescribe human medications off-label. Off-label use is permissible when a veterinarian has direct knowledge of the dog and no other appropriate medications exist. These medications may require compounding by a specialty pharmacy into flavored chewable tablets, capsules, liquids, or transdermal formulations to ensure correct dosages and palatability for dogs.
1. Alprazolam (Xanax)
Used in dogs for: phobias, fear, panic disorders.
Alprazolam is a short-acting benzodiazepine sedative often prescribed for situational anxiety, such as during thunderstorms or road trips. It takes effect quickly, ideally administered 30 to 60 minutes before a trigger. It should not be stopped abruptly if used long-term. Potential side effects include grogginess and loss of balance.
2. Amitriptyline
Used in dogs for: separation anxiety, reactivity, anxious aggression, generalized anxiety.
This tricyclic antidepressant increases serotonin and norepinephrine levels, affecting mood. It is generally given twice daily and takes one to four weeks to become effective. It should not be given to pets with diabetes or epilepsy. Potential side effects include lethargy, sedation, urine holding, and dilated pupils. Dogs on this medication for over a week or two should be tapered off gradually under veterinary supervision.
3. Buspirone
Used in dogs for: phobias, generalized anxiety.
Buspirone, an azapirone, requires continuous use to be effective and is not suitable for situational anxieties. It activates serotonin and dopamine receptors in the brain. It can take up to six weeks to show effects and may be given two to three times daily. Potential side effects include loss of appetite.
4. Clomipramine (Clomicalm)
Used in dogs for: separation anxiety, repetitive disorders.
Clomipramine, available as the FDA-approved brand Clomicalm, is a tricyclic antidepressant that boosts serotonin and norepinephrine. It can take four to six weeks for therapeutic effects and up to two months to assess its benefit. Given once or twice daily, it should not be stopped abruptly. Potential side effects include drowsiness, vomiting, increased heart rate, dry mouth, and decreased appetite.
5. Dexmedetomidine (Sileo)
Used in dogs for: situational anxiety, noise phobias, aversions.
Sileo is the first FDA-approved medication for noise aversion-related fear and anxiety in dogs. This alpha-2 adrenoceptor agonist reduces anxiety by depressing brain activity. It’s most effective when given 30–60 minutes before a noise event or at the first sign of anxiety. Administered as a transmucosal gel between the cheek and gums, it should not be swallowed. Potential side effects include drowsiness, vomiting, weakness, loss of balance, sedation, head tremor, and inappropriate urination.
6. Diazepam
Used in dogs for: situational anxiety, panic disorders, noise aversion, phobia.
Diazepam, a short-acting benzodiazepine, should ideally be given 30–60 minutes before an anxiety-inducing event or at the first sign of anxiety. It works by depressing central nervous system activity. Long-term use should not be stopped abruptly. Potential side effects include grogginess, sedation, loss of balance, increased appetite, agitation, and aggression.
7. Fluoxetine (Reconcile or Prozac)
Used in dogs for: separation anxiety, fear, aggression, compulsive behaviors, impulsivity.
Fluoxetine, particularly the FDA-approved brand Reconcile, is an SSRI that increases serotonin levels in the brain, aiding mood regulation and reducing anxiety, impulsivity, and aggression. It is given once daily and may take four to six weeks to show noticeable improvements. Potential side effects include lethargy, decreased appetite, vomiting, muscle tremors, diarrhea, restlessness, and excessive vocalization.
8. Lorazepam (Ativan)
Used in dogs for: situational anxiety, phobias, fear anxiety, panic disorders.
Lorazepam is a short-acting benzodiazepine that takes effect in about 30 minutes, best administered before an anxiety-provoking event or at the first sign of anxiety. It enhances GABA activity in the brain for a calming effect. Long-term use should not be stopped abruptly. Potential side effects include grogginess, sedation, loss of balance, increased appetite, excitement, and aggressive behavior.
9. Paroxetine (Paxil)
Used in dogs for: generalized anxiety, anxious aggression and anxiety-related behaviors, fear of noises.
As an SSRI, paroxetine increases serotonin levels in the brain. It can take four to six weeks to become effective and is given once daily. Abrupt discontinuation after long-term use should be avoided. Potential side effects include constipation, loss of appetite, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, agitation, sedation, lethargy, and urine holding.
10. Sertraline (Zoloft)
Used in dogs for: separation anxiety, anxiety disorders, impulsivity disorders, thunderstorm phobia, compulsive behaviors, fear-based aggression.
Sertraline, an SSRI, increases serotonin levels to help regulate mood and reduce anxiety, impulsivity, and aggression. It typically takes four to six weeks for full effect and is administered daily. Dogs on this medication for two months or longer should not stop abruptly. Potential side effects include lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, agitation, sedation, and urine holding.
Alternatives To Anxiety Medications for Dogs
Depending on the severity and context of a dog’s anxiety, veterinarians may suggest over-the-counter options such as dog calming treats, pheromone diffusers, or compression garments like Thundershirts. Consulting with your veterinarian is key to determining the most suitable options for your pet.
Dog Anxiety Medications FAQs
What is the best drug for anxiety in dogs?
The best drug for anxiety in dogs is determined by a veterinarian after ruling out medical causes and often in conjunction with a behaviorist or trainer.
How can I calm my anxious dog down?
Calming an anxious dog involves identifying triggers, consulting a veterinarian, potentially working with a trainer, creating a safe space, increasing exercise, and considering supplements or medications.
Can you train anxiety out of a dog?
Training, particularly with a behaviorist, can significantly help dogs cope with and reduce their anxiety by redirecting anxious behaviors.
Can I give my dog Benadryl for anxiety?
While Benadryl has mild sedative effects, it is not typically very helpful for anxiety in dogs and is primarily used for allergies.
Can I give my dog melatonin for anxiety?
Melatonin may help some dogs relax, but it’s essential to consult your veterinarian for the best treatment plan for your dog’s anxiety.
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Jennifer Coates, DVM
Veterinarian
