Best Calming Medicines for Dogs: Natural and Vet-Approved Solutions

Published on December 2 by Julia

Dogs, like people, can experience stress, anxiety, and fear. Whether it’s due to separation anxiety, thunderstorms, car rides, or visits to the vet, many dogs struggle with situations that trigger overwhelming emotions. If your dog is prone to anxiety, calming medications and supplements can help ease their discomfort and help them feel more relaxed.

In this article, we’ll look at the best calming medicines for dogs, ranging from natural remedies to veterinarian-prescribed options. By understanding the different treatments available, you can choose the right solution to help calm your dog in stressful situations.

Types of Calming Solutions for Dogs

There are several types of calming solutions available, including:

1. Prescription Medications – Medications that require a prescription from a veterinarian. They are typically recommended for severe anxiety, aggression, or panic attacks.
2. Over-the-Counter Supplements – Natural supplements and calming chews that can be purchased without a prescription, often used for mild to moderate anxiety.
3. Behavioral Solutions – Techniques that can be used in conjunction with medications to address the root causes of anxiety, like crate training, desensitization, and counter-conditioning.

Best Prescription Calming Medications for Dogs

If your dog’s anxiety is severe or persistent, a veterinarian may prescribe medication to help manage their symptoms. These medications are generally used when behavioral changes or over-the-counter solutions have not been effective.

1. Fluoxetine (Prozac)

Best For: Long-term anxiety management

Fluoxetine, commonly known by the brand name Prozac, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat separation anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and other anxiety-related behaviors in dogs. It works by balancing serotonin levels in the brain, which helps regulate mood and behavior.

Pros:

• Effective for long-term management of anxiety.
• Helps with a variety of anxiety-related issues, including separation anxiety and compulsive behaviors.
• Non-sedating in most dogs.

Cons:

• Takes several weeks to show full effect.
• May cause side effects like appetite changes, lethargy, or gastrointestinal issues in some dogs.
• Requires a prescription from a veterinarian.

2. Trazodone

Best For: Short-term anxiety relief

Trazodone is an antidepressant commonly used to treat anxiety and stress-related behaviors in dogs, particularly in stressful situations like visits to the vet, grooming, or travel. Unlike SSRIs, trazodone is often used for short-term relief and can be a good option when your dog needs immediate calming.

Pros:

• Provides quick relief for anxiety, typically within 30 minutes to an hour.
• Effective for situational anxiety, like vet visits or traveling.
• Can be used in conjunction with other medications.

Cons:

• May cause sedation or grogginess, especially in higher doses.
• Requires a prescription.

3. Acepromazine

Best For: Situational anxiety (e.g., car rides, vet visits)

Acepromazine is a tranquilizer that is often used in emergency situations or for dogs with extreme anxiety. It works by calming the central nervous system, making it useful for short-term sedation. However, it’s not a long-term solution for anxiety.

Pros:

• Quick-acting and effective for situational anxiety.
• Can be used for veterinary procedures, grooming, and traveling.

Cons:

• Sedates your dog heavily, so they may appear "out of it" during the calming period.
• Not effective for anxiety disorders long-term.
• May cause low blood pressure or sedation.

4. Clomipramine (Clomicalm)

Best For: Chronic anxiety and obsessive-compulsive behaviors

Clomipramine, marketed under the brand name Clomicalm, is another medication used to treat separation anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, and other anxiety disorders in dogs. It is a tricyclic antidepressant that helps regulate mood and anxiety symptoms.

Pros:

• Helps with separation anxiety and compulsive behaviors.
• Can be used for long-term anxiety management.

Cons:

• Side effects can include lethargy, dry mouth, and urinary retention.
• May take several weeks to show full effects.

Best Over-the-Counter Calming Solutions for Dogs

If your dog’s anxiety is mild or occasional, there are a variety of over-the-counter (OTC) calming supplements, treats, and solutions that might help. These are typically made with natural ingredients like herbs, amino acids, and vitamins that have calming effects.

1. Zylkene

Best For: Mild to moderate anxiety

Zylkene is a popular calming supplement made from a protein derived from milk (alpha-casozepine). It works by mimicking the calming effects of a mother dog’s milk, helping to soothe your dog without causing sedation. Zylkene is ideal for dogs experiencing mild anxiety, such as during travel or changes in environment.

Pros:

• Natural, safe ingredients.
• Non-sedating.
• Easy to administer, available in capsules or powder form.

Cons:

• May not be as effective for severe anxiety.
• Takes a few days to build up in your dog's system.

2. Adaptil (Dog Appeasing Pheromone)

Best For: General anxiety and stress relief

Adaptil is a product that uses synthetic dog-appeasing pheromones (DAP) to help calm your dog. These pheromones are similar to those produced by nursing mother dogs and have a soothing effect on dogs. Adaptil is available as a collar, diffuser, or spray and is useful in reducing anxiety caused by loud noises, unfamiliar environments, or separation.

Pros:

• Non-invasive and easy to use.
• Good for general anxiety, including fear of storms and separation anxiety.
• Available in various forms to suit your dog's needs.

Cons:

• Effectiveness can vary from dog to dog.
• May need to be used continuously for optimal results.

3. The Anxitane (L-theanine) Calming Supplement

Best For: Anxiety caused by environmental stressors

Anxitane is a calming supplement that contains L-theanine, an amino acid found in green tea that has been shown to reduce anxiety and stress in both humans and dogs. It works by promoting relaxation without sedation, making it ideal for dogs who need help during stressful situations like thunderstorms or car rides.

Pros:

• Natural ingredient with proven calming effects.
• Non-sedating and well-tolerated by most dogs.
• No prescription required.

Cons:

• May take a few days to start showing effects.
• Best for mild anxiety.

4. VetriScience Composure

Best For: Situational anxiety and stress

VetriScience Composure is a chewable calming supplement that contains a combination of natural ingredients like thiamine, L-theanine, and colostrum. It’s effective in helping dogs manage stress caused by thunderstorms, traveling, and separation anxiety.

Pros:

• Easy-to-administer chewable tablets.
• Fast-acting (works within 30–60 minutes).
• Good for short-term stress management.

Cons:

• May cause mild drowsiness in some dogs.
• Not as effective for chronic anxiety disorders.

5. Pet Naturals of Vermont Calming Chews

Best For: Mild anxiety and stress management

These calming chews are made with a combination of L-theanine, casein, and thiamine, designed to promote relaxation in dogs. They are particularly useful for managing anxiety caused by travel, grooming, or changes in routine.

Pros:

• Natural ingredients that are gentle on your dog’s system.
• Easy-to-feed, palatable chews.
• Good for managing occasional anxiety.

Cons:

• May not be strong enough for severe anxiety or panic attacks.

When to Seek Veterinary Help

If your dog’s anxiety is persistent, severe, or affecting their quality of life, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian. Chronic anxiety can lead to behavioral issues and even health problems, so early intervention is important. A vet can help determine the best course of treatment, which may include a combination of behavioral therapy, prescription medications, and natural supplements.

Whether your dog experiences occasional stress or chronic anxiety, there are many options available to help calm their nerves. Prescription medications like fluoxetine and trazodone are effective for long-term and situational anxiety, while over-the-counter calming supplements like Zylkene, Adaptil, and Anxitane offer more natural alternatives. By working with your veterinarian to find the right solution, you can help your dog feel more comfortable and relaxed, allowing them to enjoy a higher quality of life and a happier, more stress-free existence.

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