Best dog anxiety treatments

Have you noticed signs of anxiety in your dog like trembling, panting, chewing, or withdrawing from normal activities? Dog anxiety affects many pets and often disrupts daily routines, training, and overall health. The good news is that there is effective care available. When you recognize these behaviors early, you can address them before they become more severe and help your dog feel calmer and more comfortable.

This article explains the best dog anxiety treatment options, from prescription medications to natural alternatives like supplements and training. Understanding these choices helps you manage stress in your dog and support their long-term well-being.

Best dog anxiety treatments

When a dog’s anxiety is persistent or severe, veterinarians may recommend prescription medications to help manage symptoms. These drugs work by altering brain chemistry to reduce stress responses and improve your dog’s ability to cope with their anxiety. Below are the most commonly prescribed options, with details on how they work, what they’re best for, and potential side effects.

1. Gabapentin

Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant and analgesic that is widely prescribed off-label in veterinary medicine for anxiety, chronic pain, and seizures. It works by reducing the release of excitatory neurotransmitters (brain chemicals that increase activity and make nerve cells more likely to fire) in the brain, which helps calm nerve activity and lower the body’s stress response. 

Best for: Neuropathic pain, seizures, and anxiety

Potential side effects:

• Drowsiness or tiredness
• Loss of coordination (ataxia)
• Vomiting or diarrhea

2. Clomipramine (Clomicalm)

Clomipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) approved for treating separation anxiety in dogs. It works by increasing serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which helps regulate mood and reduce destructive or anxious behaviors. Unlike a tranquilizer or sedative, it does not alter personality or memory but instead supports more stable emotional responses over time.

Best for: Separation anxiety, compulsive behaviors, and mild aggression

Potential side effects:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Drowsiness
• Excessive thirst

3. Fluoxetine (Reconcile or Prozac)

Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed in veterinary medicine to manage behavioral disorders in dogs. By blocking serotonin reuptake in the brain, it prolongs serotonin’s effects and helps stabilize mood, reduce anxiety, and limit compulsive behaviors. It is available as brand-name formulations such as Reconcile (a chewable tablet for dogs) and Prozac (capsule or liquid), and is often combined with behavior modification therapy for best results.

Best for: Separation anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and aggression

Potential side effects:

• Reduced appetite
• Drowsiness or tiredness
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

4. Sertraline

Sertraline is an SSRI prescribed to treat anxiety-related disorders, compulsive behaviors, and aggression in dogs. It’s often prescribed alongside behavior modification strategies, as medication alone is rarely sufficient for long-term resolution of behavioral problems.

Best for: Generalized anxiety, compulsive behaviors, and noise sensitivity

Potential side effects:

• Drowsiness
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Reduced appetite
• Restlessness or agitation

5. Promace (Acepromazine)

Acepromazine is a dopamine antagonist tranquilizer approved for dogs and cats in both oral tablet and injectable forms. Veterinarians often prescribe it before surgery, during travel, or for stressful events such as thunderstorms or fireworks. While it can help reduce agitation, it is usually not considered a first-line treatment for chronic anxiety and is often combined with other medications for better effect.

Best for:  Pre-anesthetic sedation and travel stress  

Potential side effects:

• Sleepiness or weakness
• Low blood pressure
• Increased heart rate
• Confusion or aggression
  

6. Cerenia

Cerenia is the first medicine approved by the FDA for dogs to prevent and treat vomiting. Its main ingredient, maropitant citrate, blocks signals in the brain that cause nausea and vomiting. While it is mostly used to stop upset stomach and motion sickness, it can also make some dogs feel a little calmer during travel or stressful events.

Best for: Motion sickness, nausea, and adjunctive pain control

Potential side effects:

• Loss of appetite
• Tiredness
• Excessive drooling
• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Pain or swelling at the injection site (if injected)
  

7. Trazodone

Trazodone hydrochloride is a fast-acting medication that typically begins working within 1–2 hours, making it useful for acute anxiety triggered by loud noises, travel, or veterinary visits. Because its effects are temporary, it is often combined with long-term medications or behavior therapy for comprehensive management.

Best for: Supplemental treatment for separation anxiety and noise phobias

Potential side effects:

• Tiredness
• Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea, or decreased appetite)
• Increased appetite in some dogs

• Risk of serotonin syndrome if combined with other serotonin-enhancing drugs
  

8. Sertraline (Zoloft)

Sertraline is a type of antidepressant that helps balance brain chemicals linked to mood. In dogs, vets often use it to treat anxiety, compulsive behaviors like constant licking, and aggression. It usually works best when combined with training or behavior therapy.

Best for: General anxiety, compulsive behaviors, and aggression

Potential side effects: 

• Sleepiness or tiredness
• Upset stomach (vomiting or diarrhea)
• Restlessness or agitation

9. Alprazolam (Xanax)

Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine that enhances the effect of gamma‑aminobutyric acid (GABA), a calming neurotransmitter. It is given before predictable stressors like fireworks or vet visits and works within an hour. Because it can become habit-forming, it is used for short periods.

Best for: Acute panic episodes and situational stress

Potential side effects:

• Drowsiness
• Loss of coordination
• Increased appetite

10. Lorazepam (Ativan)

Lorazepam is another benzodiazepine that slows the central nervous system by enhancing GABA activity. It lasts slightly longer than alprazolam, and vets often use it to treat acute seizures and short‑term anxiety.

Best for: Emergency seizure control and short‑term anxiety, such as travel or vet visits

Potential side effects: 

• Drowsiness
• Loss of balance
• Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea, or decreased appetite)

11. Paroxetine (Paxil)

Paroxetine is an SSRI used off-label for aggression, anxiety, and obsessive behaviors in dogs. It increases serotonin levels and helps regulate mood and impulse control. This medication can help dogs feel more balanced and less reactive in stressful situations.

Best for: Aggression, anxiety, and compulsive behaviors

Potential side effects:

• Sleepiness 
• Decreased appetite
• Drooling
• Vomiting or diarrhea

Dog anxiety symptoms and diagnosis

Anxiety in dogs can look very different from one pet to another. Some signs are easy to notice, while others are more subtle. Learning what to watch for can help you recognize when your dog may need support.

Common symptoms of anxiety in dogs include:

• Shaking or trembling
• Heavy panting, even when temperatures are cooler
• Pacing or restlessness
• Whining, barking, or crying more than usual
• Hiding or avoiding people
• Chewing or scratching furniture and doors
• Trying to escape or run away

• Peeing or pooping indoors, even if house-trained

If you see several of these behaviors, it’s a good idea to consult a veterinarian. A vet can check for medical issues that might cause similar symptoms, like pain or illness. In some cases, they may recommend a behavior specialist who can make a plan to help manage your dog’s anxiety.

Dutch allows you to connect to licensed vets online without the stress of an in-person clinic visit. This is especially helpful for anxious dogs, who may find travel or waiting rooms overwhelming. Dutch makes it simple to get expert guidance, personalized treatment plans, and medications delivered to your door, so your dog can get help in the comfort of home. 

Talk to a Dutch vet today to learn about the best dog anxiety treatments.

Common causes of dog anxiety

Dogs can develop anxiety for many reasons, and the triggers aren’t always obvious. Understanding the most common causes can make it easier to spot patterns and help your dog cope.

Frequent causes of anxiety in dogs include:

• Separation from family: Dogs may become distressed when left alone, leading to barking, whining, or destructive behavior.
• Loud noises: Sounds from thunderstorms, fireworks, or construction can trigger fear and panic.
• New environments or changes at home: Moving, new pets, or other changes in routine can cause uneasiness and stress.
• Poor socialization: Limited exposure to people, animals, or varied settings early in life can make dogs fearful later on.
• Trauma or negative experiences: Past abuse, neglect, or frightening events can create lasting anxiety.
• Aging and cognitive decline: Senior dogs may become anxious as their memory, vision, or hearing begin to fail.
• Health problems or pain: Medical issues such as arthritis or neurological disorders can increase restlessness and anxiety.

Recognizing what triggers your dog’s anxiety is an important step toward choosing the right treatment. Once the cause is clear, you and your vet can decide whether medication, training, lifestyle changes, or a combination of any of these options will help the most.

Long-term vs. short-term anxiety medications for dogs

Long-term anxiety medications work to change brain chemistry and reduce overall anxiety. Examples include SSRIs, such as fluoxetine and sertraline, and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), such as clomipramine. Veterinarians use these drugs for dogs with chronic or generalized anxiety, and they usually take several weeks to show results.

Short-term anxiety medications act quickly and provide relief during stressful events. Examples include trazodone or benzodiazepines like alprazolam and lorazepam. Veterinarians prescribe these drugs for predictable situations like fireworks, thunderstorms, travel, or vet visits.

Dog anxiety treatment alternatives to medication: calming aids for dogs

There are various alternatives to medication that help reduce stress and promote relaxation in dogs. These options can manage mild anxiety on their own or support prescription treatments for more severe cases.

Calming supplements for dogs

Supplements can help reduce anxiety in some dogs without prescription medication. These products use natural ingredients that influence brain chemistry and promote relaxation.

• Probiotics: Probiotics are live microorganisms that support a healthy gut microbiome, which can influence behavior and stress levels.           Probiotics are generally safe, but veterinarians use them cautiously in dogs with weakened immune systems.
• Alpha-casozepine: Alpha-casozepine is a milk protein derivative that acts on GABA receptors in the brain to promote relaxation. It can help reduce anxiety and fear of strangers, though it does not provide immediate relief during acute stress. It is the active ingredient in Zylkene Capsules, which dogs can take daily or during stressful events.
• Melatonin: Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and also helps reduce situational anxiety. Pet-safe formulations can ease stress during thunderstorms, fireworks, or veterinary visits. Owners should avoid human products that contain  xylitol, as it is toxic to dogs.
• L-theanine: L-theanine is an amino acid found in green tea that helps control brain chemicals like GABA, serotonin, and dopamine. Supplements with L-theanine, like Anxitane Chewable Tablets, can lower fear and noise sensitivity in dogs.
• L-tryptophan: L-tryptophan is an amino acid that the body uses to make serotonin, a key neurotransmitter for mood regulation. Diets enriched with L-tryptophan may reduce fear and improve emotional balance. Some veterinary diets combine L-tryptophan with alpha-casozepine for stronger effects.
• Valerian: Valerian is a herbal sedative that may increase GABA activity in the brain. It can cause drowsiness and interacts with certain anesthetics and seizure medications. Because of these risks, veterinarians recommend using valerian only under professional guidance.
• Magnolia officinalis and Phellodendron amurense: These plant extracts have been studied for their calming and neuroprotective effects. Products such as Solliquin use this combination and may help dogs cope with thunderstorm anxiety or environmental stress. 
• CBD oil: CBD oil is a popular supplement for dogs. It may increase appetite or cause sedation, and it can interact with other medications by affecting liver enzymes. Pet owners should consult their veterinarian before trying CBD for anxiety management.

• Zylkene: Zylkene is a behavior supplement containing alpha-casozepine that helps dogs relax without causing drowsiness. Dogs can take it daily or during stressful events such as travel or household changes. 

Training and counterconditioning

Training and counterconditioning are behavior techniques that help dogs feel less anxious about situations that scare them. Training focuses on teaching new, calm behaviors, while counterconditioning may help change how a dog feels about a trigger.

For example, if a dog fears thunderstorms, you can play a soft thunder sound while giving treats. Over time, the dog starts to connect the sound with something positive instead of with fear. Practice and patience with these strategies help make the trigger less stressful.

Dog pheromones for anxiety

Dog-appeasing pheromones (DAP) are natural chemical signals that dogs release while nursing to help puppies feel safe. Synthetic versions are available as diffusers, sprays, or collars and can create a calming environment for anxious dogs.

Dog anxiety vests

Dog anxiety vests, or thunder shirts,  are snug-fitting garments that apply gentle, constant pressure around the body. This pressure creates a calming effect, similar to how swaddling soothes infants.

Interactive dog toys

Interactive dog toys provide mental stimulation that helps distract dogs from stressful triggers. These include puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing balls, and lick mats, which keep a dog focused on solving a task instead of reacting to anxiety.

Help your dog feel calmer with the best dog anxiety treatments

Anxiety shows up in many ways, from pacing and whining to chewing furniture or hiding. The good news is that you can manage it. With the right mix of medication, calming supplements, and training, your dog can feel more relaxed and enjoy daily life. When you act early, you also make it easier to stop anxiety from getting worse.

Dutch makes care simple. You skip the stressful clinic trip and talk to a licensed vet online the same day. Your vet will help you build a treatment plan and prescribe medication if needed. Dutch ships the meds straight to your door and includes unlimited follow-ups, so you always have support for your dog’s health.

Talk to a Dutch vet today and start the best anxiety treatment for your dog.

Dog anxiety treatment FAQs

How do dog anxiety medications work?

Dog anxiety medications work by changing the way chemicals in the brain send signals that control mood and stress. 

Some drugs, like SSRIs and tricyclic antidepressants, increase serotonin and norepinephrine levels to reduce overall anxiety. Others, such as benzodiazepines, enhance the calming effects of GABA (a brain chemical that slows nerve activity and promotes relaxation) and work quickly during stressful events. These medications help raise a dog’s tolerance for triggers so they can stay calmer and more comfortable.

How can I calm my anxious dog down?

You can calm an anxious dog by creating a safe, quiet space where they feel secure. Tools like anxiety vests, pheromone diffusers, and interactive toys can also provide comfort and distraction. 

For predictable stressors such as thunderstorms or travel, veterinarians may recommend short-term medications to give additional relief. Consistency in routines and gentle reassurance from you also play an important role in helping your dog manage anxiety.

Can you train anxiety out of a dog?

Training cannot completely remove anxiety, but it can greatly reduce how strongly a dog reacts to triggers. Techniques like desensitization and counterconditioning help dogs build new, calmer associations with stressful events. With time, patience, and consistency, many dogs learn to cope better and show fewer anxious behaviors. 

In more serious cases, combining training with medication or supplements gives the best results.

Can I give my dog Benadryl for anxiety?

Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is an over-the-counter antihistamine that can cause mild drowsiness in dogs. While some owners try it for anxiety, studies show it does not work reliably as an anti-anxiety medication. 

Veterinarians usually recommend more effective options for managing stress or phobias. If you are considering Benadryl for your dog, talk to your vet first to confirm safety and correct dosing.

Can I give my dog melatonin for anxiety?

Melatonin is a natural hormone that helps regulate sleep cycles and can also ease situational anxiety in dogs. Veterinarians sometimes recommend it for stress during thunderstorms, fireworks, or veterinary visits. Dog-specific formulations are generally safe, but owners should avoid human melatonin products that contain xylitol, since it is toxic to dogs. 

Always check with your veterinarian before starting melatonin to make sure the dose and product are appropriate.