Dog Calming Aids

Dog calming aids utilize one of several methods to help calm nervous dogs and promote relaxation. Some calming aids work in the form of prescription medications that can calm a dog’s mental state. There are also special collars, sprays, and diffusers that fill the area with dog-specific calming pheromones (that mimic the scent a mother releases while nursing her puppies) that are believed to provide a calming effect over time. 

Dutch also offers food supplement powders that provide probiotics to support calm behavior and help control digestive issues due to anxiety. All of these calming aids for dogs can help support dog anxiety treatment.

The best calming aid for your dog is the one that works, and it may take some experimentation to find the right fit. Some of the most popular, non-prescription calming aids for dogs are:

• Purina Calming Care for Dogs: Probiotic supplement
• ThunderEase Calming Collar for Dogs: Collar that releases calming pheromones
• ThunderEase Calming Diffuser Kit: Diffuser that releases calming pheromones

If you choose to take advantage of a prescription for dog calming aids, remember that Dutch members get free shipping on pharmacy orders.

How long even the best calming aid for dogs will last depends on the type of aid, the individual dog’s response, and the intensity of the situation.

Prescription anxiety medicine for dogs will provide a decidedly more powerful effect on your dog for as long as it is used. Many non-prescription options, like treats or supplements, provide only a few hours of calming effects between doses but do not contain any additive or risky chemicals. Pheromone sprays will usually continue to provide mild calming effects for however long they are used.

Side effects for most non-prescription calming aids for dogs are generally minimal. For diffusers and calming collars, there is a small chance that your dog will be allergic to the components; keep an eye out for excessive sneezing or irritated skin.

When using calming probiotics, some dogs may show gastrointestinal upset while their system adapts. Consider contacting a veterinarian if it is severe or lasts more than a few days.

With prescription dog calming aids, it is always best to ask your veterinarian about side effects. Make sure your vet knows of any other meds your dog is taking.

Just like humans, dogs all have their own unique threshold for loud noises, new people, strange places, and loneliness before they become stressed or anxious and begin showing signs like trembling, shivering, barking, or destructive behavior. 

Successfully treating dog anxiety long-term requires a mix of dog calming aids and careful attention from the owner. Environmental and/or behavior modification plans are a great way to make sure the stressor doesn’t continue to set your dog on edge.

If you think your pet is experiencing dog anxiety, take this quick online quiz to learn more about what you can do.