Many products are marketed to reduce fear, anxiety, and stress in dogs, but only a few have been backed by scientific research. While some pet parents report success with calming aids, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian first to find the safest and most effective solution for your dog.
Calming Supplements for Dogs
Calming supplements come in different forms, including chews, powders, capsules, and special diets. Some contain herbal extracts, amino acids, or probiotics that may influence brain chemistry and stress responses.
Probiotics
The gut-brain axis links intestinal bacteria with mood and behavior.
- Evidence: A Purina study showed that Bifidobacterium longum BL999 reduced anxiety-like behaviors in Labrador Retrievers.
- Where to find it: Purina Pro Plan Calming Care, which takes up to six weeks to show effects.
Alpha-Casozepine
A protein derivative from cow’s milk that interacts with calming brain pathways.
- Evidence: May reduce stranger anxiety; no proven short-term effects.
- Where to find it: Zylkene (Vetoquinol) capsules or calming diets.
Melatonin
A hormone that regulates sleep cycles.
- Evidence: Used for situational stress (fireworks, vet visits, storms); promising research supports its role in stress reduction.
- Where to find it: Pet-specific tablets, capsules, or chewables (ensure xylitol-free).
L-Theanine
An amino acid from tea leaves that modulates calming neurotransmitters.
- Evidence: Studies show reduced fear of strangers, noise, and storm phobias.
- Where to find it: Solliquin, Composure, and Anxitane supplements.
L-Tryptophan
A serotonin-building amino acid.
- Evidence: Some studies suggest it may reduce fear; results are mixed.
- Where to find it: Incorporated into calming diets, sometimes alongside alpha-casozepine.
Valerian
A plant-based supplement for sleep and anxiety.
- Evidence: A diffuser study showed reduced intensity (but not frequency) of anxious behaviors.
- Where to find it: Pet Remedy diffuser products.
Magnolia & Phellodendron Extracts
Herbal compounds with anti-anxiety and stress-protective effects.
- Evidence: Studies suggest benefits during thunderstorms.
- Where to find it: Found in Solliquin chews.
Dog Pheromones for Anxiety
Dogs naturally release calming pheromones when nursing. Synthetic dog-appeasing pheromone (DAP) mimics this effect.
- Evidence: Supported in reducing anxiety in situations like travel, vet visits, moving, separation, and noise phobias.
- Where to find it: Adaptil collars, sprays, and diffusers; plant-based option available in ALZOO Dog Calming Diffuser.
Dog Anxiety Vests
Pressure wraps provide gentle, constant pressure, similar to swaddling.
- Evidence: Limited but promising studies show benefits for thunderstorm and separation anxiety.
- Popular option: ThunderShirt, available in multiple sizes.
Interactive Dog Toys
Food puzzles and treat-dispensing toys help redirect anxious energy.
- Best use: Offer before stressful events (storms, fireworks, visitors).
- Options: Snuffle mats, lick mats, frozen food toys, and heartbeat-stuffed toys for puppies.
What Science Says
- Research on non-medicated calming products is still limited.
- Quality and effectiveness vary between brands.
- Look for the NASC seal (National Animal Supplement Council) as a sign of quality ingredients.
- Placebo effects are common, so always monitor your dog’s actual behavior changes.
Talk to Your Veterinarian
Before starting any supplement or calming aid:
- Rule out medical conditions that may cause anxiety.
- Discuss safe options and dosage.
- Explore behavioral therapy alongside calming products for best results.
