Imagine two dogs: an active Australian Shepherd with seemingly endless energy, and a timid Italian Greyhound who hides under the couch at the slightest disturbance, be it strangers, fireworks, or a loud door closing. While their temperaments differ greatly, both could potentially benefit from over-the-counter calming chews. These supplements are designed to help dogs manage anxiety, reduce excitability, and cope with various stressors, making them a popular choice for many pet parents.
With a wide array of options available, each featuring unique blends of ingredients, choosing the best calming chews for dogs can be a challenging task. Many products aim to provide a generalized calming effect, but the most suitable choice often depends on your dog’s specific needs, breed, any existing allergies, and the particular situation you’re trying to address. Understanding the active ingredients, product types, and other considerations is crucial for making an informed decision for your beloved companion. Finding the ideal solution often involves careful research and, most importantly, consulting with your veterinarian to ensure safety and efficacy. To explore more about options, you might also be interested in what is the best calming treat for dogs.
Understanding Calming Chew Ingredients and Their Benefits
There isn’t a universal formula for dog calming chews; each product contains a distinct combination of ingredients intended to alleviate anxiety or soothe excitability. It’s important to remember that different ingredients serve different purposes, and while some components have been scientifically studied, research may not always directly involve the calming chews themselves.
For instance, dogs with sensitive stomachs may experience anxiety due to pain, gas, or discomfort. In such cases, a calming chew formulated with ginger root could be beneficial, as this ingredient is known to soothe both digestive upset and associated anxiety. Similarly, an older dog experiencing nighttime anxiety might find relief from a chew containing melatonin, which can help promote sleep and regulate their sleep cycle.
Other common ingredients found in calming chews and their reported benefits include:
- L-tryptophan: A natural amino acid that supports the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with feelings of well-being and happiness.
- L-theanine: Another amino acid, often found in green tea, known for its ability to help alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation without causing drowsiness.
- Valerian root: An herb traditionally used as a mild sedative to help calm nerves and promote sleep.
- Cannabidiol (CBD): Studies suggest that CBD can help lower cortisol levels, potentially reducing stress and anxiety in dogs.
- Chamomile flower: A well-known herb frequently used to soothe upset stomachs and promote a sense of calm.
- Thiamine (B1): A vital vitamin that targets the central nervous system, playing a role in nerve function and stress response.
- Passionflower: An herb that can be particularly helpful for dogs experiencing acute anxiety.
It is paramount to talk to your dog’s veterinarian before administering any calming chews, even if they are sold over-the-counter. The label “all-natural” doesn’t automatically guarantee that a chew is safe or appropriate for your dog. Some products, despite appearing natural, might contain traces of harmful ingredients, such as garlic, which can lead to serious health complications in canines. Your veterinarian can thoroughly review the ingredients of any calming chew and advise you on its safety and suitability for your specific pet.
Beagle laying down relaxing on the floor looking up.
Key Considerations When Choosing Dog Calming Chews
To efficiently narrow down your search for the most effective calming supplement, consider several unique factors that differentiate various types of chews and their applications.
Types of Calming Chews for Dogs
Many calming chews are available as palatable, flavored tablets, designed to be easily consumed by dogs. However, some calming supplements come in oil form. If you suspect your dog might be reluctant to chew a tablet, drizzling a calming oil over their dry food can be an effective alternative. This method ensures they receive the supplement without fuss.
Beyond anxiety relief, some chews offer additional health benefits. For example, certain dental sticks are blended with ingredients like hemp and melatonin, serving a dual purpose by cleaning your dog’s teeth while simultaneously providing a brief calming activity. Other formulations might focus on joint health, incorporating high levels of beneficial omega fatty acids alongside their calming properties. When considering what is good for dogs to chew on, these multi-functional options can be particularly appealing.
How Long Do Dog Calming Chews Last?
The duration of a calming chew’s effect can vary significantly, typically lasting anywhere from four to eight hours, depending on its active ingredients. When selecting a chew, consider the specific situation you need it for. A long-lasting option would be ideal for extended stressors like road trips, while a more temporary solution might be sufficient for short-lived events, such as a brief fireworks display or a vet visit.
Dietary Restrictions and Allergies
Although many calming dog chews share common active ingredients, each product boasts its own unique formulation. It is crucial to check the packaging thoroughly for potential allergens. For example, some calming chews are flavored with chicken, a common allergen for many dog breeds. Ensuring that a chew contains only ingredients your dog can safely tolerate is vital to prevent adverse reactions and ensure their well-being.
How Quickly Do Dog Calming Chews Work?
The onset time of calming chews is another important factor. Fast-acting chews are perfect for unexpected events that demand immediate relief, such as during a sudden, loud thunderstorm. Conversely, chews that take a longer time to “kick in” are better suited for non-urgent situations, such as administering them before bedtime to help an anxious dog settle for the night.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi laying down on the feet of its owner on the couch.
Which Dogs Can Benefit from Calming Chews?
It’s a common misconception that calming chews are only suitable for perpetually anxious dogs. In reality, these products can benefit canines of all ages, sizes, and breeds. Senior dogs, for example, can sometimes develop symptoms akin to human dementia, which may lead to anxiety in situations they previously handled with ease.
High-energy breeds, such as Border Collies and Australian Cattle Dogs, are renowned for their boundless enthusiasm and readiness for hours of play. While these working dogs thrive with adequate outlets for their energy, they can easily become bored and resort to destructive behaviors if not properly stimulated. Incorporating specific chews containing ingredients like chamomile and melatonin into their diet, at the correct dosage, can help these dogs achieve a healthier balance, reducing unwanted behaviors and promoting a sense of calm. For owners of energetic large dogs, finding long lasting dog chews for large dogs can also be beneficial in managing their chewing habits and providing mental stimulation. Many new owners often wonder if they can give calming chews to puppies. The answer is generally yes, but just as with any new addition to a puppy’s diet, consulting a veterinarian beforehand is always recommended to ensure safety and appropriate dosage.
Irish Red and White Setter laying in the grass with a stuffed toy.
What if Calming Chews Don’t Seem to Work?
Finding the ideal dog calming chew can often be a process of trial and error. It might take experimenting with several brands and ingredient combinations before you achieve the desired results for your pet. Before dismissing dog calming chews altogether, there are several important factors to consider.
First, ensure you thoroughly understand the dosage instructions before offering these chews to your dog. Your dog’s weight significantly influences how quickly their body metabolizes certain substances. One chew might not equate to one serving, and larger dogs may require multiple chews to experience the intended effect. However, it’s crucial to understand that more treats do not necessarily lead to better results; always adhere to the recommended guidelines.
You may also need to adjust your expectations regarding calming chews and their impact on your pet. These products are not designed to override inherent breed traits or to completely erase reactivity stemming from traumatic experiences. For such deeply rooted behavioral issues, working with a certified animal behavioral specialist would be a more effective and appropriate approach. In some cases, conditions extend beyond the scope of over-the-counter chews and supplements. A veterinarian can provide guidance on whether prescription medications, such as antidepressants or benzodiazepines like diazepam (Valium), might be necessary to help your dog thrive. If your dog is experiencing other health concerns, such as how do you heal hot spots on dogs fast, a vet can also provide comprehensive advice for those issues.
Exploring Alternatives to Dog Calming Chews
While dog calming chews are valuable resources for owners looking to alleviate anxiety, discourage destructive behaviors, or comfort an aging dog, they are not all-encompassing solutions. Rather, they serve as one tool that, when combined with other targeted efforts, can significantly enhance your dog’s quality of life.
For example, if your dog struggles with separation anxiety, you might leave behind a selection of engaging toys and interactive games in addition to administering a calming chew before you leave. This multi-faceted approach addresses both the emotional and behavioral aspects of their anxiety.
There are also several excellent alternatives to calming chews themselves. One popular option is a soothing collar, which releases pheromones that mimic the comforting response a puppy feels from its mother, promoting a sense of security. Another effective alternative is a calming spray or diffuser, which can disperse calming scents into your dog’s environment. Anxiety vests or apparel, generally designed as a vest or wrap, provide gentle, constant pressure over the dog’s body, similar to a reassuring hug. These alternatives, like knowing the best flea treatment for dogs without a vet prescription, can be part of a holistic approach to managing various aspects of your dog’s well-being.
Always Consult Your Veterinarian First
As responsible dog lovers, our primary goal is to minimize any risks to our dogs’ health. Whether you aim to soothe an anxious dog or prevent reactivity, a veterinarian can offer invaluable insight into the safest and most effective options available for achieving that goal.
It’s important to note that, unlike human supplements, there are often no standardized testing protocols for pet supplements, including calming chews or behavioral supplements. This lack of regulation can lead to significant variations in quality among different brands of calming chews. By working closely with a veterinary professional, you can gain peace of mind, confident that you are providing the safest and most effective method tailored to your dog’s specific condition and needs.
