Does your dog get nervous during thunderstorms, car rides, or when you leave the house? You’re not alone! Many dog owners face the challenge of helping their furry friends feel more relaxed and secure in stressful situations. It can be tough to watch your pup shake or whine, and even tougher to figure out the best way to help them. That’s where dog calming chews come in, but with so many brands and ingredients, picking the right one can feel like a guessing game.
Navigating the world of calming supplements can be confusing. You want something safe and effective, but how do you know what to look for? Are all “natural” ingredients truly beneficial, or are some just marketing buzzwords? This post is here to help you cut through the noise. We’ll explore what makes a good calming chew, what ingredients to watch out for, and how to choose the best option for your unique dog’s needs.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clearer understanding of how calming chews work and feel confident in making a choice that will bring more peace and happiness to both you and your canine companion. Let’s dive in and discover how to help your dog feel their best!
Our Top 5 Dog Calming Chews Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Dog Calming Chews Detailed Reviews
1. STRELLALAB Advanced Calming Chews for Dogs – Hemp Chews + Melatonin – Anxiety Relief – Sleep Aid – Relaxing Treats – Stress Relief During Fireworks
Rating: 9.2/10
Is your furry friend stressed out by loud noises, car rides, or just feeling a bit too energetic? STRELLALAB Advanced Calming Chews are here to help! These tasty treats combine hemp and melatonin to offer your dog a sense of calm and better sleep. They’re made in the USA and designed to be a delicious alternative to traditional pills, making them a favorite for dogs of all ages and sizes. Give your pup the gift of peace with these handy chews.
What We Like:
- Effectively calms dogs during stressful events like fireworks, storms, and vet visits.
- Supports overall canine composure and can help manage hyperactivity and aggression.
- Suitable for all dog breeds and sizes, from puppies to seniors.
- Dogs find them delicious, making them a preferred way to get calming support.
- Act as a great sleep aid, promoting restful nights without drowsiness.
- Made in the USA with a safe, natural formula including hemp oil.
- Comes with a 90-day guarantee and hassle-free refunds for peace of mind.
- Travel-friendly size makes them easy to take on the go.
What Could Be Improved:
- For best results, daily use is recommended, which might be an added cost for some owners.
These STRELLALAB chews offer a promising solution for managing dog anxiety and promoting relaxation. They provide a tasty and effective way to support your dog’s well-being.
2. NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid Dog Supplement – Helps Promote Relaxation
Rating: 9.3/10
Is your furry friend a bundle of nerves during thunderstorms, fireworks, or car rides? NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid Dog Supplement offers a tasty solution to help your dog find their zen. These soft chews are designed to promote relaxation and reduce stress, making challenging situations much easier for both of you.
What We Like:
- High-Quality Ingredients: The supplement includes melatonin, ginger, L-Tryptophan, and thiamin, which work together to support a healthy nervous system and reduce tension.
- Promotes Relaxation: It effectively helps calm dogs experiencing anxiety from separation, loud noises like storms and fireworks, and motion sickness.
- Tasty Soft Chews: Dogs love the flavor, making it easy to administer as a treat, encouraging a positive association with calming.
- Trusted Brand: NaturVet has been providing wholesome pet supplements since 1994 and manufactures their products in a cGMP compliant facility in the USA.
- Convenient Packaging: The re-sealable jar keeps the chews fresh for continued use.
What Could Be Improved:
- Dosage for Large Breeds: For very large dogs, you might need to give multiple chews, which could increase the cost over time.
- Taste Variability: While most dogs love the taste, some picky eaters might be hesitant.
NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid Dog Supplement is a reliable option for pet parents seeking a natural way to ease their dog’s anxiety. It provides a tasty and effective way to help your dog feel more relaxed and comfortable in stressful situations.
3. VetIQ Calming Support Supplement for Dogs
Rating: 9.1/10
Is your furry friend easily spooked by thunderstorms or fireworks? Does your dog get anxious when you leave the house? The VetIQ Calming Support Supplement for Dogs offers a natural way to help your canine companion feel more relaxed and at ease. These tasty chews are designed to help manage everyday stress and promote a sense of calm, making your dog’s day a little bit happier.
What We Like:
- It’s recommended by veterinarians, giving pet parents peace of mind.
- The chews help maintain calmness during stressful situations, like loud noises or car rides.
- They support your dog in coping with everyday stresses, big or small.
- These chews promote relaxation, helping your dog enjoy their downtime.
- They support balanced behavior by managing stress levels.
- The product is made in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- The effectiveness can vary from dog to dog, so results might not be immediate for all pets.
- While they are chews, some dogs might be pickier eaters and may not find them as appealing as others.
Overall, VetIQ Calming Support Chews seem like a solid option for pet owners seeking to help their dogs navigate stressful moments. They offer a gentle approach to anxiety relief that many dogs can benefit from.
4. Zesty Paws Calming Chews for Dogs – for Everyday Stress
Rating: 9.4/10
Is your furry friend a little anxious? Zesty Paws Calming Chews for Dogs in Peanut Butter flavor are designed to help your dog feel more relaxed and comfortable. These tasty treats can help with everyday stress, loud noises, and even when you have to leave them alone. They make stressful times much easier for both you and your dog.
What We Like:
- Helps dogs feel calmer during stressful times like fireworks or car rides.
- Contains Suntheanine, which is a special ingredient known to help dogs relax.
- Includes Ashwagandha to help dogs handle stress naturally.
- Made with other helpful ingredients like Valerian Root and L-Tryptophan.
- Comes in a yummy peanut butter flavor that most dogs love.
What Could Be Improved:
- Effectiveness can vary from dog to dog.
- The peanut butter flavor might not be for every dog.
These chews offer a natural way to support your dog’s well-being. They are a good option to consider for a more peaceful pup.
5. Calming Chews for Dogs 200ct Hemp Dog Calming Chews – Anxiety and Stress Relief Treats Melatonin Bites Sleep Aid for Small/Medium/Large Dogs Calm Dog – Separation
Rating: 8.7/10
Our Calming Chews for Dogs offer a natural way to help your furry friend relax and feel more at ease. These 200ct hemp dog calming chews are designed to provide anxiety and stress relief, acting as a sleep aid for dogs experiencing nervousness from thunderstorms, separation, car rides, or vet visits. They contain natural ingredients like melatonin and chamomile to promote a sense of calm and restful sleep.
What We Like:
- Helps calm dogs during stressful situations like fireworks, thunder, and separation.
- Made with natural ingredients like organic hemp seed powder, chamomile, valerian root, and melatonin.
- Gentle and safe, free from grains, corn, soy, and artificial additives.
- Fast-acting, starting to work within 30-45 minutes for hours of calm.
- Delicious chicken flavor that dogs enjoy, making anxiety relief a treat.
- Cost-effective with 200 chews per pack, suitable for all dog sizes.
- Vet-recommended and GMP compliant for quality and safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- For severe anxiety, consulting a veterinarian before use is recommended.
These calming chews are a fantastic option for pet parents seeking a natural and effective way to support their dog’s well-being. They offer a tasty and economical solution to help your dog stay calm and happy.
Your Guide to Calming Chews: Helping Your Pup Find Their Zen
Does your furry friend get anxious when you leave? Do thunderstorms send them into a tailspin? Dog calming chews can be a helpful tool to ease your dog’s stress. This guide will help you pick the best ones for your canine companion.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for calming chews, keep these important features in mind:
- Natural Ingredients: Look for chews made with natural herbs and supplements known for their calming properties.
- Palatability: Dogs need to actually eat the chews! They should taste good enough for your dog to enjoy them.
- Dosage Options: Some brands offer different strengths or sizes for small, medium, and large dogs.
- Fast-Acting vs. Long-Lasting: Some chews work quickly for immediate stress, while others provide ongoing support.
- Vet-Recommended: Chews backed by veterinary professionals often offer peace of mind.
Important Ingredients and What They Do
The effectiveness of calming chews often comes down to their ingredients. Here are some common and beneficial ones:
- L-Theanine: This amino acid, found in green tea, helps promote relaxation without causing drowsiness. It can improve mood and reduce anxiety.
- Chamomile: A well-known herb for its calming effects, chamomile can soothe upset stomachs and reduce nervousness.
- Valerian Root: This herb has been used for centuries to promote sleep and reduce anxiety. It can be quite effective for dogs with severe stress.
- Tryptophan: This amino acid helps the body produce serotonin, a feel-good chemical that can improve mood and reduce aggression.
- CBD (Cannabidiol): Derived from hemp, CBD is gaining popularity for its potential to reduce anxiety and inflammation. Always ensure it’s from a reputable source and third-party tested.
What Makes a Chew Great (or Not So Great)
Several factors can influence the quality and effectiveness of dog calming chews.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- High-Quality Sourcing: Ingredients sourced from reputable suppliers often mean better purity and potency.
- Third-Party Testing: Reputable brands have their products tested by independent labs to confirm ingredient accuracy and absence of contaminants.
- GMP Certified Manufacturing: Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) ensure products are consistently produced and controlled according to quality standards.
- Clear Labeling: Honest and transparent labeling about ingredients and dosages builds trust.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Artificial Additives: Artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives can sometimes cause sensitivities in dogs.
- Low-Quality Fillers: Ingredients like corn, wheat, or soy can be used as cheap fillers and may not offer any calming benefits.
- Unknown Sourcing: If a brand doesn’t disclose where its ingredients come from, it’s a red flag.
- Lack of Testing: Products without third-party testing might not contain what they claim.
User Experience and Common Use Cases
Dog owners use calming chews for a variety of reasons. The experience can be transformative for both dogs and their families.
Common Use Cases:
- Separation Anxiety: When dogs get stressed or destructive when left alone.
- Travel Anxiety: Car rides or plane trips can be stressful for many dogs.
- Noise Phobias: Fireworks, thunderstorms, or loud noises can cause significant fear.
- Vet Visits and Grooming: New environments or procedures can be overwhelming.
- New Environments: Moving to a new home or introducing new pets can be unsettling.
Many users report seeing a noticeable difference in their dog’s behavior, with less panting, whining, and pacing. Dogs often appear more relaxed and less reactive to triggers. It’s important to remember that calming chews are a supplement and may work best when combined with positive reinforcement training and environmental management. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new supplement for your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Dog Calming Chews
Q: How quickly do dog calming chews work?
A: The speed at which calming chews work can vary depending on the ingredients and your dog. Some dogs may show effects within 30-60 minutes, while others might take a bit longer to feel the full benefits.
Q: Are dog calming chews safe for daily use?
A: Many calming chews are formulated for daily use to help manage ongoing anxiety. However, it’s always best to check the product’s specific instructions and consult your veterinarian to ensure it’s appropriate for your dog’s needs.
Q: Can calming chews make my dog sleepy?
A: Some calming ingredients, like Valerian Root, can have a mild sedative effect. However, many chews are designed to promote relaxation without causing excessive drowsiness. Look for products with ingredients like L-Theanine for a more balanced calming effect.
Q: How do I know if the calming chew is working?
A: You might notice your dog is less restless, pants less, whines less, or is more responsive to training when exposed to stressful situations. Observe your dog’s behavior before and after giving the chew.
Q: Are there any side effects to dog calming chews?
A: Generally, calming chews are well-tolerated. However, some dogs might experience mild digestive upset, especially when first starting. It’s important to follow the recommended dosage and consult your vet if you notice any unusual reactions.
Q: Can I give calming chews to puppies?
A: It’s generally recommended to wait until puppies are a bit older before giving them calming chews, as their systems are still developing. Always check the product’s age recommendations and consult your veterinarian.
Q: What if my dog doesn’t like the taste of the chews?
A: If your dog is a picky eater, look for brands that emphasize palatability and offer different flavors. You can also try hiding the chew in a small amount of wet food or a favorite treat.
Q: How should I store dog calming chews?
A: Most calming chews should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Always reseal the container tightly after each use to maintain freshness and potency.
Q: Can I combine calming chews with other supplements?
A: While it’s possible, it’s crucial to discuss this with your veterinarian. They can help you determine if combining supplements is safe and appropriate for your dog’s specific health needs and any existing medications.
Q: Where can I buy the best dog calming chews?
A: You can find high-quality dog calming chews at pet supply stores, online retailers, and sometimes directly from your veterinarian’s office. Always choose reputable brands that provide transparent ingredient information and third-party testing.
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.