Does your furry friend get a little too excited during thunderstorms or when you leave the house? You’re not alone! Many dog owners want to help their pups feel more relaxed, but figuring out the best way can be tricky. There are so many calming chews out there, and it’s hard to know which ones actually work and are safe for your dog.
It can be frustrating to spend money on products that don’t help your dog feel better. You want to see your pup happy and calm, not stressed and anxious. That’s why we’ve put together this guide. We’ll break down what makes a good calming chew and what to look for.
By the end of this post, you’ll have a clearer idea of how to pick the perfect calming chew for your dog. We’ll cover ingredients, different types of chews, and what to expect. Let’s dive in and find a way to bring some extra peace to your dog’s day!
Our Top 5 Calming Dog Chews Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Calming Dog Chews Detailed Reviews
1. Zesty Paws Calming Chews for Dogs Composure & Relaxation for Everyday Stress & Separation Peanut Butter 90 Count
Rating: 9.0/10
Is your furry friend a little anxious? Zesty Paws Calming Chews for Dogs in peanut butter flavor are designed to help your dog find their calm. These tasty treats aim to ease everyday stress, nervousness, and even those jumpy moments during storms or fireworks. They are packed with ingredients that support a relaxed and happy pup.
What We Like:
- Offers calming support for dogs dealing with normal stress and nervousness.
- Contains Suntheanine, a special form of L-Theanine known for promoting relaxation.
- Includes Ashwagandha, an adaptogen that can help dogs cope with everyday stresses.
- Helps dogs manage anxiety during events like storms, car rides, and fireworks.
- Made with a blend of beneficial ingredients like Valerian Root, Hemp Seed Powder, and Passionflower.
- Comes in a peanut butter flavor that dogs typically enjoy.
What Could Be Improved:
- Results may vary between individual dogs.
- The effectiveness for severe anxiety might need professional veterinary advice.
These Zesty Paws chews offer a natural approach to help your dog feel more at ease. They are a good option to consider for managing your dog’s everyday anxieties.
2. NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid Dog Supplement – Helps Promote Relaxation
Rating: 9.2/10
Is your furry friend a bundle of nerves during thunderstorms, fireworks, or car rides? The NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid Dog Supplement is designed to bring a sense of peace to your canine companion. These tasty soft chews work to promote relaxation and reduce stress, making difficult situations more manageable for both you and your dog.
What We Like:
- High-Quality Ingredients: These supplements are packed with wholesome ingredients like melatonin, ginger, L-Tryptophan, and thiamin, which work together to support your dog’s nervous system and reduce anxiety.
- Tasty Treat Format: Dogs love them! The soft chews are designed to taste like a treat, making them easy to administer even to picky eaters.
- Versatile Calming: They help with a variety of stressors, including separation anxiety, loud noises like fireworks and storms, and motion sickness during travel.
- Trusted Brand: NaturVet has been making quality pet supplements since 1994, and their products are made in a cGMP compliant facility in the USA.
- Convenient Packaging: The re-sealable jar keeps the soft chews fresh for continued use.
What Could Be Improved:
- Dosage Adjustments: While effective for many, some users might need to experiment with dosages to find the perfect amount for their individual dog’s needs.
- Taste Preference: Although generally well-liked, individual dog taste preferences can vary, and some dogs might not find them as appealing as others.
This NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid Dog Supplement offers a helpful solution for anxious pups. It’s a reliable way to support your dog’s well-being during stressful times.
3. VetIQ Calming Support Supplement for Dogs
Rating: 9.2/10
Does your dog get anxious during thunderstorms or car rides? VetIQ Calming Support Supplement for Dogs offers a natural way to help your furry friend relax. These chews are designed to manage stress and promote a sense of calm, making everyday life more peaceful for both of you. They are veterinarian recommended and made right here in the USA.
What We Like:
- Veterinarian recommended for effective calming care.
- Helps pets manage everyday stress from loud noises or changes.
- Supports balanced behavior by stabilizing stress levels.
- Promotes relaxation, letting your dog enjoy their downtime.
- Made in the USA, ensuring quality and peace of mind.
- Chewy texture makes them easy for dogs to take.
What Could Be Improved:
- Effectiveness can vary between individual dogs.
- Some dogs might be picky about the flavor.
If you’re looking for a way to ease your dog’s anxiety, VetIQ Calming Support Supplement is a solid option to consider. It offers a gentle approach to help your dog feel more at ease during stressful situations.
4. Advanced Calming Chews for Dogs – Hemp Dog Calming Chews – Anxiety Relief with Melatonin – Stress & Separation Anxiety – Sleep Aid + Hip and Joint Supplement Support – Made in USA – 70 Treats
Rating: 9.2/10
Is your furry friend struggling with anxiety or stress? The Advanced Calming Chews for Dogs offer a natural solution for a happier, calmer pup. These treats are designed to help with common issues like separation anxiety, car ride jitters, and nervousness during thunderstorms. Plus, they even offer support for hip and joint health!
What We Like:
- Effectively relieves anxiety and stress from various triggers.
- Formulated with natural, human-grade ingredients like valerian root, chamomile, and melatonin.
- Supports moderate to hyperactive behavior in dogs.
- Made in the USA by vets in an FDA-registered facility, ensuring high quality.
- Free from added sugar, wheat, corn, GMOs, and preservatives.
- Provides hip and joint support in addition to calming benefits.
What Could Be Improved:
- Effectiveness can vary between individual dogs.
- The chewable format might not be suitable for all dogs, especially those with sensitive stomachs.
Overall, these Advanced Calming Chews are a promising option for pet parents seeking natural anxiety relief for their dogs. They combine effective calming ingredients with beneficial joint support, all made with quality in mind.
5. ZENO Hemp Calming Chews for Dogs Anxiety 200 pcs – Chicken Flavored – Anxiety Relief – Calming Chews Treats – Melatonin for Dogs – for Stress
Rating: 9.0/10
Does your dog get nervous during thunderstorms, car rides, or trips to the vet? The ZENO Hemp Calming Chews for Dogs, in a tasty chicken flavor, are here to help. These 200-count chews are designed to bring peace and quiet to your canine companion, making stressful situations much easier for both of you. They’re packed with natural ingredients to help your dog feel calm and relaxed.
What We Like:
- Provides ultimate anxiety relief for dogs, helping them relax during stressful events like thunderstorms, separation, car rides, and vet visits.
- Made with natural and safe ingredients including Hemp Seed Oil, Hemp Seed Powder, L-theanine, L-tryptophan, Folic Acid, Passion Flower, Chamomile, and Melatonin.
- Available in delicious chicken, beef, and duck flavors that dogs love, making it easy to give them.
- Starts working fast, usually within 30-45 minutes, and offers long-lasting relief for up to 12 hours.
- Comes with a 5-year assurance and friendly, responsive customer service, offering peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description doesn’t mention specific dosage guidelines for different dog sizes, which would be helpful for owners.
- While the flavors are a pro, knowing if the other flavors are also available in the 200-count size would be useful.
These ZENO Hemp Calming Chews offer a natural and effective way to manage your dog’s anxiety. They provide much-needed calm and are a treat your dog will actually enjoy.
Choosing the Best Calming Dog Chews: A Guide for Worried Pet Parents
Does your dog get nervous during thunderstorms? Do they hate car rides? Many dogs experience stress and anxiety. Calming dog chews can help ease their worries. This guide will help you pick the best ones for your furry friend.
1. Key Features to Look For
When shopping for calming chews, keep these important features in mind:
- Effective Ingredients: Look for chews with proven calming ingredients.
- Palatability: Your dog needs to want to eat the chew!
- Appropriate Size: Chews should be the right size for your dog’s breed and chewing strength.
- Safety: Ensure the chew is made with safe, high-quality ingredients.
- Long-Lasting Effect: Some chews offer longer-lasting calm than others.
2. Important Materials
The ingredients in calming chews are crucial. Here are some common and effective ones:
- L-Theanine: This is an amino acid found in green tea. It helps dogs relax without making them sleepy.
- Tryptophan: This is another amino acid that helps the body make serotonin, a “feel-good” chemical.
- Chamomile: This herb is well-known for its relaxing properties.
- Valerian Root: This natural herb can help reduce anxiety and promote sleep.
- CBD (Cannabidiol): This compound from hemp plants can help with anxiety and inflammation. Always check that it’s THC-free.
- Melatonin: This hormone can help regulate sleep cycles, which can be useful for anxious dogs.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of calming chews can vary. Here’s what makes a difference:
- Ingredient Sourcing: High-quality chews use ingredients sourced from reputable suppliers. This means they are pure and potent.
- Manufacturing Standards: Chews made in facilities that follow good manufacturing practices (GMP) are usually higher quality. This ensures consistency and safety.
- Artificial Additives: Chews with artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives can be less desirable. Natural ingredients are often preferred.
- Concentration of Active Ingredients: A higher concentration of calming ingredients can mean a more effective chew.
- Digestibility: Chews that are easy for your dog to digest are better. This prevents upset stomachs.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Calming chews are used in many situations:
- Separation Anxiety: When dogs get anxious when left alone.
- Travel: To help dogs cope with car rides or plane trips.
- Loud Noises: For events like fireworks, thunderstorms, or construction.
- Vet Visits: To make trips to the veterinarian less stressful.
- New Environments: When introducing a dog to a new home or surroundings.
Many dog owners report that their dogs enjoy the taste of these chews. They find them easy to give, especially when traveling or at the vet. Some users mention that the calming effect takes a little time to kick in, while others see results quickly. The duration of the calming effect also varies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Calming Dog Chews
Q: How quickly do calming chews work?
A: The time it takes for calming chews to work can vary. Some dogs might show effects within 30 minutes, while others may need an hour or more. It also depends on the ingredients and your dog’s individual metabolism.
Q: Can my dog take calming chews every day?
A: Many calming chews are safe for daily use. However, it’s always best to check the product label or ask your veterinarian. They can advise based on your dog’s specific needs and health.
Q: Will calming chews make my dog sleepy?
A: Some calming ingredients, like melatonin or valerian root, can cause mild drowsiness. However, ingredients like L-theanine are designed to promote relaxation without sedation.
Q: Are calming chews safe for puppies?
A: Not all calming chews are suitable for puppies. Always check the product’s age recommendations. It’s a good idea to talk to your vet before giving any supplements to a young puppy.
Q: What if my dog doesn’t like the taste?
A: Taste is important! If your dog refuses a chew, try a different brand or flavor. Many brands offer various flavors like chicken, peanut butter, or bacon.
Q: Can I give calming chews with other medications?
A: It’s essential to consult your veterinarian before combining calming chews with other medications. Some ingredients might interact with prescription drugs.
Q: How should I store calming chews?
A: Store calming chews in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep the container tightly sealed to maintain freshness and potency.
Q: Are there any side effects of calming chews?
A: Side effects are usually rare and mild. They can sometimes include an upset stomach or mild drowsiness. If you notice any concerning reactions, stop giving the chews and contact your vet.
Q: How do I choose the right dosage?
A: Dosage instructions are usually based on your dog’s weight. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on the product packaging. If you’re unsure, ask your veterinarian.
Q: Can calming chews cure anxiety?
A: Calming chews can help manage and reduce symptoms of anxiety. They are not a cure for underlying anxiety disorders. For severe or persistent anxiety, professional help from a veterinarian or a certified dog trainer is recommended.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.