As pet parents, many of us have experienced the heartache of watching our beloved dogs struggle with anxiety. Dog calming products can be a game-changer in these stressful situations.
But with so many options on the market for anxious dogs, it can be difficult to determine which products really work.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore various dog calming products and their effectiveness to ease anxiety.
Table of Contents:
- Calming Toys for Dogs: The Best Options for Anxious Pups
- How to Calm an Anxious Dog Naturally
- Do Pet Calming Products Work?
- FAQs in Relation to Dog Calming Products
- Conclusion
Calming Toys for Dogs: The Best Options for Anxious Pups
Calming toys can help to alleviate anxiety in dogs. Some will have relaxing features such as heartbeat sounds, warming centres or soothing scents.
Other toys will focus on distracting your dog during times of anxiety with mental stimulation.
You can offer these toys to your dogs daily or just during stressful events such as storms or vet visits.
We recommend the below toys to help relieve anxiety:
- Little Buddy Heart Beat Sheep: This cute plush toy has a battery operated heart inside that mimics the sound and feel of a mother's heartbeat. This is especially comforting for lonely puppies.
- Calming Pals Peanut Shake: Apply treats onto the mat's surface. As your dog licks it off, it will be distracted from feelings of anxiety or loneliness. The act of licking also naturally helps dogs to feel relaxed.
- Dog Sokudo Puzzle Toy: Designed for intelligent dogs, this puzzle toy encourages your dog to interact in order to reveal hidden treats. It is extremely stimulating and therefore can help to minimise and relieve anxiety.
With these calming toys in your arsenal, you'll be well-equipped to help your dog relax. For more options, check out our selection of dog toys.
The Best Calming Products for Dogs
Other than toys, there are a range of anti-anxiety products on the market that promise to help your dog relax.
Let us break down the options for you:
- Pheromone Products: These products can mimic the soothing pheromones released by mother dogs, providing comfort and helping to ease anxiety. They can come in the form of sprays, diffusers or collars. Adaptil is a popular brand that makes these products.
- Calming Beds: Calming dog beds are super fluffy, soft and cosy. This can help to reduce anxiety in dogs, particularly separation anxiety in dogs left home alone.
- Herbal Supplements: Some natural ingredients (such as chamomile or valerian root) can have a calming effect on dogs. They can come in the form of treats (aka. calming chews) or a daily supplement tablet. Always purchase herbal products that are specially formulated for dogs, not humans.
Different products work best for different dogs. You may need to try multiple until you find something that works.
It is also important to remember these products are not miracle workers. You will need patience and they may need to be used in conjunction with training or medication, depending on the cause and severity of your dog's anxiety.
How To Calm An Anxious Dog Naturally
Are you a pet parent looking for ways to help your furry friend relax without resorting to medications?
You're in luck. We've got some fantastic natural methods for calming your anxious dog.
- Exercise: A tired dog is a happy dog. Ensure your pup gets plenty of physical activity throughout the day. Regular physical activity helps release pent-up energy and improves overall health.
- Mental Stimulation: Keep their minds engaged with puzzle toys or training exercises - boredom can contribute to anxiety.
- Create a Safe Space: Provide a quiet, comfortable area where your dog can retreat when feeling stressed or overwhelmed. It can be comforting for your dog to be able to retreat to a small space such as a kennel, crate or small bedroom in your house.
- Aromatherapy: Essential oils like lavender have been known to help calm dogs naturally. Just make sure they are pet-safe.
- Diet Changes: Sometimes, what your dog eats can affect their anxiety levels. Consider switching to a high-quality diet, made from natural ingredients and rich in essential nutrients that reduce stress hormones in dogs. Some dogs may benefit from switching to a diet that includes calming ingredients such as chamomile or tryptophan-rich foods like turkey.
Incorporating these natural solutions into your dog's routine can make a world of difference when it comes to easing their anxiety.
If you're unsure which method will work best for your pup, don't hesitate to consult with a professional like your veterinarian or an animal behaviourist.
Remember, patience and consistency are key when helping your dog overcome anxiety naturally.
Do Pet Calming Products Work?
As a pet owner, you may be wondering if calming products are just another marketing gimmick or if they genuinely help reduce anxiety for your furry friend.
The good news is that many of these products have been proven to have a calming effect on dogs. But results vary!
It's important to remember that every dog is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Factors that impact how effective a calming aid is include:
- Cause of the anxiety
- Severity of the anxiety
- Dog's age, breed, temperament and medical history
- Quality of the product
- Proper use of the product
- If behaviour modification training is also being offered
To ensure success with calming products, we recommend combining them with other anxiety-reducing techniques such as regular exercise, consistent training, and creating a safe environment for your pet.
If you find nothing is working for your pet, we recommend booking an appointment with your local veterinarian. There could be an underlying cause to the problem.
Pet calming products can be very effective at treating anxiety. Different things work for different dogs. There are multiple factors that can effect the success of calming aids including if they are used in conjunction with behaviour modification training.
FAQs in Relation to Dog Calming Products
Do Dog Calming Products Work?
Yes, many dog calming products can be effective in reducing anxiety and stress in dogs. These include calming toys, specially formulated natural supplements, pheromone diffusers, and calming beds.
However, dog owners should remember that results may vary depending on the individual dog's temperament and the specific product used.
What Do Vets Recommend for Calming Dogs?
Vets often recommend a combination of behavioral training techniques along with various calming aids such as pressure wraps (Thundershirts), pheromone diffusers (Adaptil), or prescription medications if necessary.
It is essential to consult your veterinarian before using any medication or supplement for your pet.
Are Calming Meds Safe for Dogs?
In general, most prescription medications prescribed by veterinarians are considered safe when administered correctly.
However, it is crucial to follow your vet's advice regarding dosage and monitoring potential side effects. Natural alternatives like Vetalogica Hemp Clinical 5-in-1 Canine Multivitamin Treats can also provide a safer option for some pets.
What Helps Makes Dogs Calm?
To help keep dogs calm, consider providing them with:
- A Comfortable Environment: a quiet, safe space with their bed and toys.
- Routine: regular feeding times, walks, and playtime to reduce stress.
- Mental Stimulation: interactive toys or puzzle feeders to keep them engaged.
- Dog Calming Products: such as pressure wraps, pheromone diffusers, or supplements.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a variety of effective dog calming products available on the market.
Calming toys can provide comfort and distraction for anxious pups, while natural solutions like aromatherapy and pheromone sprays can also help to soothe nerves.
Vet-recommended options such as prescription medications or supplements may be necessary for severe cases of anxiety.
At Zach's Pet Shop, we offer a variety of top-notch calming products to meet the requirements of your pup. Whether you're looking for fun toys or vet-approved solutions, our selection has got you covered.
