Published on: 07/21/2020, updated on: 10/30/2021

The Best Calming Treats for Dogs | Top Anxiety Aid Medicine

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When your dog is not getting its mental, physical and social needs met, they may get anxious or stressed, and extremely difficult to control or calm.

There are a lot of factors that can contribute to this problem and luckily, there is hope for peace in your beloved pal. Whatever the case may be, you can put Fluffy in a relaxed mood with the best calming treats for dogs.

Do you want to know what the best calming medicine for dogs is? Read on to see the reviews of the best products as well as a guide on how to pick the most suitable option for your dog.

Our top pick is the Zesty Paws Stress & Anxiety Calming Bites because it delivers great results and it relieves anxiety and stress in dogs of all life stages. It also contains lots of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to boost the overall health of your dog.

The Best Calming Treats for Dogs Are:

1. Zesty Paws Stress & Anxiety Calming Bites — Best Dog Calming Treats

Zesty Paws Stress Anxiety Calming Bites

The Zesty Paws Stress & Anxiety Calming Bites is one of the best calming treats for dogs on the market today. This formula contains only organic and natural ingredients. It is completely non-toxic and safe for your cat. The texture is great and it is not too hard for your dog to chew.

You will not have any issues with giving these treats to your dog, as they come in turkey flavor. The flavoring also makes it easier for your dog to take it even when the pet is feeling anxious.

The ingredients used to make this supplement are proven to calm and soothe the mind. The formula includes organic passionflower and organic ginger root. This supplement also contains Suntheanine, and this ingredient is L-Theanine in its purest form. This ingredient helps to calm the mind without any effects such as drowsiness.

If your dog is hyperactive, this is one of the best options to go for, as it contains organic chamomile that soothes hyperactive dogs. It also contains hemp seed oil, which helps to alleviate anxiety and restlessness.

The vitamin B1 in this formula helps with a balanced temperament while the Valerian Root in it eases hypersensitive and tense behaviors. It is completely free from wheat, soy, corn, artificial flavors, and preservatives. This treat is also available in a peanut butter flavor.

Specs

  • Life Stage: All life stages
  • Form: Soft Chew
  • Special Diet: Organic hemp, Chamomile, and L-Theanine

Pros

  • Made with organic and natural ingredients
  • Ideal for dogs of all ages
  • Enhances the overall health of your dog
  • Effective at calming anxious and hyperactive dogs

Cons

  • A little pricey
ZESTY PAWS CALMING BITES

2. VetriScience Composure Behavioral Health Bite-Sized Dog Chews

VetriScience Composure Behavioral Health Bite Sized Dog Chews

This is another very popular and effective dog calming treat. The Composure Behavioral Health Bite-Sized Dog Chews from VetriScience contains ingredients that will help keep your dog calm almost immediately after your dog takes it.

The ingredients in this supplement are proven to promote relaxation in your dog’s mind. Some of the ingredients in this formula are L-Theanine, thiamine, and colostrum.

The manufacturer claims that you would start seeing the effect of the treats within 30 minutes after your dog takes it. The effect is set to last for up to 4 hours. If you are taking your dog to the vet or any other place that usually triggers anxiety, you can give the pet the treat 30 minutes before then to prevent undue anxiety.

This formula also provides C3 Calming Complex to support balanced behavior. You can give this treat to your dog up to twice a day or whenever you need it. It is also safe for your dog to take up to three times in the event of increased stress.

Other ingredients in this treat are canola oil, chicken liver flavor, and vegetable oil to enhance the skin and coat health of your dog. This chew is available in three flavors: beacon flavor, chicken flavor, and peanut butter.

There is also a flavorless version, just in case your dog does not like the available flavors. The flavors make it easy to administer.

Specs

  • Life Stage: All life stages
  • Form: Soft Chew
  • Special Diet: C3 Calming Complex, Thiamine, and L-Theanine

Pros

  • Safe for multiple uses
  • Very attractive flavors
  • Very active ingredients
  • Works fast and lasts up to 4 hours

Cons

  • Some picky dogs might reject it

3. NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid Dog Soft Chews

NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid Dog Soft Chews

Here is another great dog calming treat to consider. The NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid Dog Soft Chews contains a blend of several high-quality ingredients to help calm and soothe your dog.

This formula is ideal for small, medium, and large breed dogs. The top ingredients of this formula are Thiamine, L-Tryptophan, Ginger, and Melatonin.

The ingredients used to make it do a great job of helping with upset stomachs, anxiety, pains, and aches. This treat does not have any side effects such as drowsiness, which is common among other substandard dog-calming treats.

The ginger in this formula handles the issue of sensitive stomachs, and this comes in really handy during travels. These chews are great for grooming, traveling, fireworks, thunderstorms, or any other event that could upset the tummy of your dog.

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It is ideal for dogs that are 12 weeks and older, which means you can give it to puppies, adults, and senior dogs. The melatonin encourages relaxation, helping your dog to remain calm always. The product is to be given to your dog 30 minutes before any stressful situation.

Specs

  • Life Stage: 12 weeks and older
  • Form: Soft Chew
  • Special Diet: Thiamine, L-Tryptophan

Pros

  • Highly effective treats
  • The treats are highly palatable
  • Supports sensitive stomachs
  • Reduces tension and stress

Cons

  • A bit drier
Quiet Moments Dog Calming Aid Supplement - NaturVet

4. PetHonesty Hemp Calming Anxiety & Hyperactivity Soft Chews

PetHonesty Hemp Calming Anxiety Hyperactivity Soft Chew

If you are looking for the best calming treat for a dog with a sensitive stomach, we recommend you go for the PetHonesty Hemp Calming Anxiety & Hyperactivity Soft Chews. This formula is made with organic hemp powder with a blend of natural relaxing herbs. It has a wag-worthy natural chicken flavor that makes it very appealing to dogs.

It does not contain any drugs, sedatives, and it has no side effects such as drowsiness. The formula of this supplement helps to reduce hyperactivity, stress, and anxiety in about 30 to 45 minutes after your dog takes it. It is completely free from GMOs, soy, wheat, and corn, making it a great option for dogs with sensitivities.

This product also contains valerian root, ginger, and chamomile. These ingredients work together to help your dog to remain calm during stressful circumstances such as a visit to the vet, traveling, and more.

The chews have a soft tempting texture, and their taste makes it hard for dogs to resist. It is made with all-natural ingredients, and it is completely safe for your dog.

The product is made in an FDA-registered facility that is certified by GMP. It is also free from preservative and other ingredients that could upset the tummy of your dog.

Specs

  • Life Stage: Adults
  • Form: Soft Chew
  • Special Diet: Non-GMO, no soy, no wheat, no corn

Pros

  • Non drowsy side effects
  • Made with all-natural ingredients
  • Ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs and allergies
  • Appealing taste, smell, and texture

Cons

  • A bit expensive

5. Particular Paws Calming Aid Dog Chewable Tablets

Particular Paws Calming Aid Dog Chewable Tablets

The next on our list is a dog calming pills review. Particular Paws Calming Aid Tablets is one of the best calming aids for dogs out there, and it delivers great results.

It comes in an easy to chew format and it contains all-natural ingredients to help your dog remain calm in certain situations. Some of the top ingredients in this formula are L-Tryptophan and Thiamine Mononitrate.

There are also some natural ingredients that are well-known for their calming benefits in this calming aid. These ingredients include passionflower and chamomile flower.

This formula is completely safe for your dog, and you can give it to your dog every day without worrying about side effects such as drowsiness. This is a great blend of active and organic ingredients in a chewable, nice format.

This product is ideal for dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds. The ingredients do a great job of reducing anxiety and stress. It also contains vitamin B6, and extracts from St. John and Hops Flower to promote a worry-free, calm disposition.

For additional tummy support, this formula contains ginger and the L-Tryptophan in it helps to create serotonin for a more positive mood.

Specs

  • Life Stage: All life stages
  • Form: Chewable Tablet
  • Special Diet: Organic and all-natural ingredients

Pros

  • Made with recognized all-natural ingredients
  • Nice, chewable format
  • No harsh side effects
  • Works for dogs of all ages

Cons

  • Some users said they did not notice any difference

6. Lively Pets Ultra Soothe Calming Aid Dog Soft Chews

Lively Pets Ultra Soothe Calming Aid Dog Soft Chews

The Ultra Soothe Calming Aid Dog Soft Chews from Lively Pets is a non-hemp calming treat for dogs. This product is made in the United States and it contains only premium-quality ingredients.

It provides positive calming results in dogs, which is why many dog parents love it. This product comes in soft chews and each chew is very effective and powerful at treating anxiety.

Each chew contains L-tryptophan, passionflower, melatonin, and valerian, and these ingredients help to keep your dog calm and relaxed. They also work together to provide your dog with a brain wave pattern and calm demeanor to relax during thunderstorms, a visit to the vet, fireworks, or other activities that trigger anxiety.

This calming treat also helps dogs to sleep peacefully at night. The blend of natural ingredients also help dogs that suffer from paw licking, shivers, barking, and excessive whimpering to stay calm.

They also help with an upset stomach, diarrhea, and vomiting. If your dog has gastrointestinal issues, you should go for this option, as it helps to calm the situation.

Specs

  • Life Stage: Adults
  • Form: Soft Chew
  • Special Diet: All-natural ingredients

Pros

  • Significantly reduces anxiety
  • Calms dogs in different situations
  • Helps with tremors
  • Made with all-natural ingredients

Cons

  • Not ideal for puppies

7. PETIPET Calming Bars Hemp & Chamomile Dog Supplement

PETIPET Calming Bars Hemp Chamomile Dog Supplement

This Calming Bars Hemp & Chamomile Dog Supplement from PETIPET is fresh, organic, and natural. This treat is completely free from fillers and additives such as wheat, soy, corn, by-products, artificial colors, and preservatives.

This means your dog will be getting the full nutritious value it needs to remain calm and relaxed, helping it to leave an anxiety-free life.

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This product does not only help your dog to live a stress-free life, but it also provides your dog with all the vital nutrients it needs to remain strong and healthy every day. This formula contains limited ingredients, and this makes it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

It contains only recognized, natural ingredients that will not upset the tummy of your dog. It features a blend of veggies, fruits, and herbs, and they all work together to help your dog relax and remain calm.

This formula will also help to make your dog less aggressive, less irritable, and more sociable. Some of the top ingredients in this formula include chamomile, organic hemp, apples, carrots, passionflower, and baobab trees. It relieves loud noise scares, separation anxiety, and aggression against other people and animals.

This product is very safe for your dog, and it does not leave any side effects behind. It will not make your dog feel dizzy in any way. The ingredients in this formula is said to offer a positive result, including enhancing the overall health of your dog.

Specs

  • Life Stage: All life stages
  • Form: Chew
  • Special Diet: Grain-free, human-grade, limited ingredients, non-GMO

Pros

  • Made with all-natural ingredient
  • Caters to the overall health of your dog
  • Contains lots of fruits, fiber, and antioxidants
  • Limited ingredient diet
  • Promotes everyday calmness

Cons

  • Larger dogs may finish the pack quickly

8. Zesty Paws Hemp Elements Calming Nutrastix Behavior Dog Supplement

Zesty Paws Hemp Elements Calming Nutrastix Behavior Dog Supplement

Zesty Paws is a brand that no longer needs an introduction in the pet product space. This brand is very popular, and it has a reputation to maintain, which is why it has always been known for making high-quality, effective pet products.

The Hemp Elements Calming Nutrastix Behavior Dog Supplement is one of the best dog-calming treats this brand has made. This formula is made with chamomile, melatonin, hemp, Suntheanine, and valerian root. These ingredients help to relieve aggression, stress, and hyperactivity in dogs that are susceptible to anxiety.

This is a 2-in-1 product, as the chew also helps to clean the teeth of your dog as it chews. It features a blend of peppermint oil, kelp, and taurine, which help to freshen the breath of your dog.

The holistic ingredient in this formula helps your dog to settle into a relaxed state. With this treat, your canine companion will be chewing its way to a fresher smile.

The product is very effective and the results are obvious. This calming treat is ideal for dogs of all breeds and sizes. The formula is also free from additives and fillers such as corn, wheat, soy, gluten, artificial flavors, and colors.

Specs

  • Life Stage: All life stages
  • Form: Chew
  • Special Diet: Natural ingredients, grain-free

Pros

  • Helps to clean your dog’s teeth
  • Grain-free formula
  • Calms hyperactivity, anxiety, barking, and more
  • Leaves your dog with fresher breath

Cons

  • Some fussy eaters may reject it
Zesty Paws Supplements for Dogs & Cats | Chewy

9. Maxxidog Maxxicalm Calming Aid for Dogs

Maxxidog Maxxicalm Calming Aid for Dogs

The Maxxidog Maxxicalm Calming Aid for Dogs also made it to our list because of the unique benefits it offers. The active ingredient of this formula is Thiamine Passionflower, chamomile, inositol, taurine, vitamin B1, magnesium, and l-theanine.

This product is completely free from gluten, soy, corn, wheat, and other ingredients that can trigger allergies in dogs. The blend of ingredients reduces dog anxiety naturally.

It also helps to resolve common behavioral challenges such as hyperactivity and aggression. The formula helps to improve the mood of your dog naturally, helping your dog remain calm.

It is ideal for dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages. The chews are also very easy to administer, as they are liver-flavored. The flavor would even make your dog want more.

It also tastes good and the texture is perfect for dogs of all ages. There are also lots of minerals, vitamins, herbs, and amino acids in this treat to help your dog maintain calmness.

Specs

  • Life Stage: All life stages
  • Form: Chewable Tablet
  • Special Diet: All-natural ingredients

Pros

  • A blend of minerals, vitamins, and herbs
  • Keeps your dog calm for a long time
  • Reduces anxiety naturally
  • Delivers great results for all breeds and sizes

Cons

  • It is expensive
maxxicalm natural calming aid for dogs

Important Factors To Consider When Buying Calming Aids For Your Dog

Since dogs cannot feed or take care of themselves, it is now our job as pet parents to take care of them and monitor their diet. Being a pet parent comes with many responsibilities, and these responsibilities can be overwhelming for some pet owners, especially those that are new to dog-care.

If you are looking for the best calming treats for your dog, there are certain things you need to keep in mind. There are many dog-calming treats out there and you need to know what to look for in order to find the right one for your canine friend.

To help you get started, here are some of the vital factors you need to consider when looking for the ideal calming treats for your dog.

Ingredients

Before you take the product to the checkout or place an order for it, make sure you check out the ingredients used to make it. Most dog-calming treats contain very similar ingredients.

They all have five common ingredients that help to keep aggression and anxiety at bay. The five major ingredients are passionflower, valerian root, l-tryptophan, chamomile, and ginger root. Here is a quick overview of these ingredients:

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Ginger Root

Ginger root is one of the most important ingredients in a dog-calming treat because it helps to prevent nausea and upset stomachs. If your dog has a sensitive stomach or he/she usually experiences motion sickness, then you should ensure the treat you opt for contains ginger extracts, as this ingredient can significantly reduce these types of accidents.

Many people use ginger to calm digestive system issues, which is why dog owners usually go for treats containing ginger for their dogs with travel issues. Ginger also helps to reduce bloating, and bloating is very risky in large breed dogs.

This ingredient also helps to prevent early cancer symptoms and inflammatory joint diseases like arthritis because it is anti-inflammatory. Hence, if your dog has any of these issues, you should pick a treat that contains ginger.

Chamomile Flower

Chamomile flower is a very popular herb, and even humans use it a lot. There are a variety of chamomile flowers out there, but the commonly used one is the German Chamomile.

In addition to helping your dog remain calm, this ingredient also boosts your dog’s digestive system, eliminates worms, and fights bacteria.

The herb is 100 percent safe for your dog, but you have to make sure that your dog is not allergic to it. It is recommended you start with a small quantity to see how your dog reacts to it.

Valerian Root

This herb is also very popular and it is used in drugs as an anti-anxiety herb for humans and pets. The root has anticonvulsant properties that help to treat health issues such as epilepsy.

However, you should know that dogs react to this herb differently. The reaction in some dogs is good, some dogs do not show any positive or negative reaction, while some usually show negative effects.

This depends on your dog, and you will not be able to find out if it is good for your dog until you try it out.

The herb is great for dogs with upset stomachs, but not so good for dogs with itchy skin or high temperature. It is not dangerous, it is safe, and many dogs respond to it positively.

L-Tryptophan

The L-Tryptophan is the most important amongst them all since the body cannot produce it because it is an essential amino acid. As such, you need to make sure this ingredient is in the pet's diet.

This ingredient can regulate all the anxiety and stress in the brain of your dog. It also caters to the overall wellbeing of your dog.

Passionflower

This ingredient has several medicinal purposes. It helps to reduce anxiety and stress to make your dog feel relaxed and calm. This ingredient increases the levels of GABA in the brain significantly, and this helps dogs that are suffering from seizures.

The Form of the Treat

Dog-calming treats come in different forms. Some of them come as capsules, others come as soft chews, while some come in liquid form that you can give to your dog directly or mix it with its food.

There is no better option in this; we recommend you go for the option that works best for you and your dog.

Dosage

You should check the dosage of the treat and ensure it is a reasonable size for your dog. There are different sizes of treats and different sizes of dogs out there, and this makes it somewhat difficult to determine the general doze that is suitable for your dog.

Most products come with the recommended doses for different sizes of dogs.

Nevertheless, the general recommended dosing for everyday use is 2 chews for dogs that weigh up to 25 pounds, 3 chews for dogs that weigh up to 75 pounds, and 4 chews for dogs that weigh more than 75 pounds. The bigger your dog, the more supplements you would need to purchase every month.

Taste

The taste of the treat is another vital thing you need to consider. You need to make sure the taste appeals to your dog. If your dog does not like the taste, it might reject it, which would be a total waste of money, and you do not want that.

As such, if you do not want to have any issues administering the supplement, you should opt for one with great taste. There are different flavored treats out there; you can pick a flavor that your dog loves.

There are also flavorless options, just in case your dog does not like the flavored options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Do I Know My Dog Needs Calming Aids?

If your dog is showing some signs of anxiety whenever you go on car travels, visit the vet, fireworks, home parties, or introduce it to new animals, then you should consider getting a dog-calming treat.

How Long Does It Take For Calming Treats To Take Effect?

Most calming treats for dogs usually take effect 30 to 45 minutes after administration.

Can I Give Calming Treats To My Puppy?

You can give dog-calming treats to dogs of all life stages. However, it is not recommended to give it to dogs under 12 weeks of age.

Final Thoughts

An anxious or hyperactive dog would greatly benefit from dog-calming treats. These treats do not only help your dog to remain calm, most of them offer a wide range of health benefits.

Some of them help to boost the overall health of your dog while others serve as dental treats to keep your dog’s teeth and gums clean and healthy.

Our top pick for the best calming treats for dogs is the Zesty Paws Stress & Anxiety Calming Bites because it is very effective, and it enhances the overall health of your dog in addition to helping it remain calm.

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