If you’ve noticed that your dog has been acting anxious lately, you’re not alone. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from anxiety, and it’s no fun to see your furry friend feeling stressed or uncomfortable. But the good news is, there are many natural remedies you can try to help alleviate your dog’s anxiety. Whether it’s caused by separation, loud noises, or unfamiliar situations, this guide will take you through a variety of options to make your dog feel calmer and happier.
Understanding Anxiety in Dogs
Before jumping into remedies, it’s important to understand why your dog might be feeling anxious. Anxiety in dogs can manifest for many reasons. It could be due to separation anxiety, triggered when you leave the house, or fear-based anxiety that emerges during thunderstorms, fireworks, or other loud noises. Sometimes, anxiety can arise from unfamiliar environments or changes in daily routine. Recognizing the specific cause can help you find the most effective natural remedy.
Anxiety may show up as excessive barking, pacing, shaking, chewing on furniture, or even house soiling. Understanding these signs will give you a head start on calming your furry friend. Let’s dive into the natural remedies that might just work wonders for your dog.
1. Exercise and Routine
One of the most underrated but effective natural remedies for anxiety is regular exercise. Just like with humans, physical activity helps release endorphins—those “feel-good” chemicals that can help reduce stress. If your dog gets anxious while you’re away, making sure they get a good amount of exercise before you leave can help tire them out and keep them calmer. Go for a long walk, have a game of fetch, or take them to the dog park to burn off some of that anxious energy.
Routine is also crucial for anxious dogs. Dogs thrive on structure and knowing what to expect. By keeping a consistent schedule for walks, feeding, and bedtime, you can help reduce uncertainty and stress. Try not to make drastic changes to their daily routine, as this can make their anxiety worse.
2. Calming Supplements
There are a variety of natural supplements that can help calm an anxious dog. For example, Zesty Paws Calming Bites are made with natural ingredients like chamomile and L-theanine, which can help reduce anxiety. These supplements are easy to give and are often highly rated by dog owners who have seen a significant improvement in their dogs’ anxiety levels. You can find these on Amazon, and they’re a popular choice among pet parents due to their effectiveness and palatable flavor.
Another popular supplement is NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid. It contains melatonin, a natural hormone that helps regulate sleep and can be very effective for dogs that struggle with restlessness and anxiety. You can use it before potentially stressful events, like a thunderstorm or a trip to the vet, to help ease your dog’s nerves.
3. CBD Oil for Dogs
CBD oil is becoming increasingly popular as a natural remedy for anxiety in dogs. Derived from hemp, CBD oil is non-psychoactive and can provide calming effects without any “high.” Many pet parents have had success with products like HolistaPet CBD Oil or PetHonesty Hemp Calming Chews, both of which are available on Amazon. CBD oil works by interacting with your dog’s endocannabinoid system, which helps maintain balance in their body and can alleviate feelings of anxiety.
When choosing a CBD oil, make sure it is specifically made for pets and is free from THC. You should also follow the dosing instructions carefully. While CBD works well for many dogs, it’s always wise to consult your vet before starting your pup on a new supplement.
4. Aromatherapy with Essential Oils
Aromatherapy can also work wonders for dogs with anxiety. Essential oils like lavender are well known for their calming properties. You can use a diffuser to allow the scent to fill a room, but always make sure your dog has a way to leave the room if they don’t like the smell. Not all dogs respond positively to essential oils, and some can even be harmful if used improperly.
Another option is a product like Adaptil Calming Spray. Adaptil mimics the natural pheromones that mother dogs produce to soothe their puppies, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. You can spray it on your dog’s bedding or around their favorite resting spot for a calming effect.
5. Calming Music and White Noise
Believe it or not, music can have a soothing effect on your dog. There are playlists specifically designed to reduce anxiety in dogs, available on platforms like YouTube or Spotify. Soft classical music or “canine lullabies” can help calm your dog’s nerves, especially during stressful times such as thunderstorms or when they’re home alone. White noise machines can also help drown out loud noises that might be causing anxiety, like fireworks or construction sounds.
Through a Dog’s Ear is a popular music collection designed specifically for dogs, and many pet parents have noticed their dogs relaxing when these tunes are playing.
6. Herbal Remedies
Certain herbs are known for their calming properties and can be used to help with anxiety. Chamomile, valerian root, and passionflower are popular choices. Chamomile tea can be brewed and cooled, then added to your dog’s water bowl, or valerian root tincture can be given to help ease nerves. It’s always best to consult with your veterinarian before adding any herbal remedies to your dog’s regimen to make sure it’s safe and the correct dose.
7. Comfort Items and Clothing
Comfort items, such as a favorite blanket or toy, can make a huge difference for anxious dogs. Another popular product that can help with anxiety is the ThunderShirt. This is a compression vest that applies gentle, constant pressure, similar to swaddling an infant, and can help alleviate anxiety. Many dog owners swear by the ThunderShirt for situations like thunderstorms, fireworks, or car rides.
You can find the ThunderShirt Classic Dog Anxiety Jacket on Amazon, and it has a large number of positive reviews from pet parents who have noticed a significant improvement in their dog’s anxiety symptoms.
8. Massage and Physical Touch
Just as massage can be relaxing for humans, it can also be beneficial for dogs. Gently massaging your dog can help relieve tension and anxiety. Focus on long, slow strokes along their back and sides, and avoid fast or abrupt movements. This type of calming touch helps release oxytocin—often called the “love hormone”—which can help your dog feel more comfortable and less anxious.
Try setting aside some quiet time each day to just sit with your dog and give them a gentle massage. It can be a great bonding experience and help your dog feel more secure.
9. Calming Treats
There are also specially formulated calming treats that can be given to help reduce your dog’s anxiety. Many of these treats are made with natural ingredients like chamomile, melatonin, or L-theanine, which can help soothe your dog without making them overly drowsy.
One popular option is the Pet Naturals of Vermont Calming Chews, available on Amazon. These treats are highly rated and are often used by pet parents to help their dogs cope with stressful situations like traveling, vet visits, or being home alone.
10. Creating a Safe Space
Providing a safe space for your dog is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to reduce anxiety. This could be a cozy corner in your house, a crate with a comfy bed, or even a whole room where your dog can retreat if they’re feeling overwhelmed. The key is to make sure the space is comfortable and filled with things your dog loves—like a soft blanket, their favorite toys, and maybe even a calming scent.
If your dog feels safe and knows they have a place to go during stressful situations, it can work wonders for their overall anxiety levels. Make sure no one bothers them when they’re in their safe space, and avoid using the area for time-outs or punishment.
11. Training and Behavior Modification
While it’s not a “quick fix,” behavior modification and training can be very effective in reducing anxiety in the long term. Working with a certified dog trainer or a canine behaviorist can help identify the root cause of your dog’s anxiety and create a plan to desensitize and counter-condition them to the triggers that make them anxious.
Positive reinforcement, like rewarding your dog when they stay calm during stressful situations, can go a long way. Over time, your dog will learn that they have nothing to fear and will start to associate formerly scary situations with positive experiences.
12. Bach Flower Remedies
Bach Rescue Remedy is a blend of flower extracts that is often used as a natural stress reliever for both humans and pets. You can add a few drops to your dog’s water or directly to their tongue. Many pet parents have reported success using Rescue Remedy for situations like thunderstorms, trips to the vet, or separation anxiety. You can find Bach Rescue Remedy on Amazon, and it has a lot of positive feedback from other pet owners.
13. Acupuncture and Acupressure
Acupuncture may sound like an unusual treatment for dogs, but it’s an increasingly popular natural therapy for anxiety. Acupuncture works by stimulating certain points on the body to release energy and restore balance, which can help alleviate anxiety. Many holistic veterinarians offer acupuncture services, and some dog owners have seen incredible results from these sessions.
If acupuncture sounds too intimidating, acupressure is another option you can try at home. There are specific pressure points on a dog’s body that can be massaged to help relieve anxiety. Speak with a holistic vet to learn about acupressure techniques you can safely use with your dog.
14. Dietary Considerations
Diet can play a role in your dog’s anxiety levels. Ensuring your dog is eating a balanced diet with high-quality ingredients can help support their overall health and emotional well-being. Omega-3 fatty acids, for instance, are known to support brain health and may help reduce anxiety.
Consider adding a fish oil supplement, like Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet Oil, to your dog’s diet. You can find this product on Amazon, and it’s well-reviewed by pet parents. Always make sure to introduce any new supplement gradually and consult your vet if you’re unsure.
15. Desensitization and Counterconditioning
If your dog has specific anxiety triggers, such as fireworks or car rides, desensitization and counterconditioning can be effective long-term solutions. This method involves gradually exposing your dog to the anxiety trigger at a very low level and then pairing it with something positive, like their favorite treat. Over time, your dog can learn to associate the formerly scary thing with a positive experience, which can reduce their anxiety.
For example, if your dog is afraid of car rides, start by simply sitting in the car without going anywhere and rewarding them with treats. Gradually work up to short drives, always using positive reinforcement.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with anxiety in dogs can be a challenging and sometimes emotional experience. It’s difficult to watch your best friend struggle, but there are many natural ways to help ease their anxiety and improve their quality of life. From calming supplements to aromatherapy, the key is to try different approaches and see what works best for your pup. Every dog is unique, and what works wonders for one might not have the same effect on another.
Always remember to consult with your veterinarian before trying new supplements or making significant changes to your dog’s diet or lifestyle. With a bit of patience, consistency, and plenty of love, you can help your furry friend find relief from their anxiety and enjoy a more relaxed, happy life.
Take the time to observe what makes your dog most comfortable, and don’t be afraid to experiment with combinations of the natural remedies mentioned here. Your dog’s journey to overcoming anxiety might require a mix of these approaches—but with your support, they’ll get there!