You know that jittery feeling before a big exam or any stressful situation? Dogs experience similar emotions, and their anxiety can be just as real and intense. Seeing your dog shake during storms or hide from everyday noises can be really upsetting. Such prolonged anxiety in dogs doesn’t just affect their mood; it can make them restless and even affect their health. As a result, many pet parents today are turning to herbal remedies as an alternative or complement to behavioral training and medications for gentle, natural ways to calm your pup. Many herbs have been used for centuries to soothe nerves and stress, plus promote relaxation, not just in humans, but in dogs too. These remedies don’t just cover up symptoms; they support your dog’s body and mind, helping them feel calmer, sleep better, and regain balance.
So, in this blog, we’ll explore some easy ways to use these herbal solutions at home that can fit naturally into your dog’s daily routine to reduce their anxiety. By properly studying and understanding how they work and using them correctly can make a real difference, helping your anxious dog feel safer and more confident.
What is Dog Anxiety?
Dog anxiety is a natural emotional response that happens when a dog feels stressed, worried, or uneasy. Just like humans, dogs can experience feelings of nervousness or tension in different situations. Anxiety in dogs can be caused by changes in their environment, loud noises, separation from their owners, or unfamiliar experiences. Some dogs pace, whine, hide, or shake when they are anxious. Even a normally calm dog can show signs of anxiety when faced with something new or stressful.
Anxious dogs may feel restless, uneasy, or more sensitive than usual. Over time, anxiety can affect their overall health, sleep, and behavior and it can become a persistent issue that impacts their quality of life. Dogs, like people, have their own personalities, and some may naturally be more prone to anxiety than others. This is why understanding dog anxiety is important because it helps pet parents respond with proper care and support. While professional advice is also advised, natural and herbal remedies are increasingly being used to promote relaxation and emotional balance.
6 Herbal Remedies That Actually Help Dog Anxiety
CBD (Cannabidiol)
CBD or cannabidiol, is a natural substance found in the hemp plant. It has become very popular for helping dogs who feel anxious, stressed, or uncomfortable. Dogs can get nervous for many reasons, like loud thunderstorms, fireworks, car rides, new environments, or even being left alone at home. CBD can help calm these feelings and it is also known to reduce pain and discomfort, which is helpful for older dogs with stiff joints or arthritis.
How it works for Dog Anxiety
CBD works by interacting with the dog’s endocannabinoid system, which helps control mood, sleep, stress, and overall balance in the body. This system helps the body respond to stress and maintain calm. CBD does not make your dog ‘high’ like some other compounds from hemp. Instead, it gently supports the nervous system, helping reduce anxious behaviors like shaking, barking, or pacing. It can also improve sleep in restless dogs and make them feel more comfortable in situations that usually make them nervous.
How to use it
CBD is available in oils, treats, and capsules made specifically for dogs. The right dose depends on your dog’s size, weight, and the level of anxiety. It’s best to start with a small amount and watch how your dog reacts. Always follow the instructions on the product and check with your vet if you’re unsure.
Valerian
Valerian is a natural herb that has been used for hundreds of years to help people and animals feel calm. In dogs, it is especially helpful for situational anxiety, which basically means anxiety caused by specific events like thunderstorms, fireworks, vet visits, or car rides. Dogs that are nervous or have trouble relaxing can benefit from valerian. It helps them feel calmer without making them sleepy, which is why many pet parents prefer it over stronger medications for short-term anxiety relief.
How it works for Dog Anxiety
Valerian works by gently affecting the brain and nervous system. It increases certain chemicals in the brain that help dogs feel relaxed and reduce the physical symptoms of stress, like trembling, pacing, or whining. Unlike some sedatives, valerian does not completely knock dogs out but calms them naturally while still allowing them to stay alert. This makes it ideal for temporary anxiety or stressful situations when you want your dog to feel safe but not drowsy.
How to use it
Valerian is available in several forms for dogs, including capsules, tinctures, and powders that can be added to food. The correct dose depends on your dog’s size and weight, so always follow the product instructions. Always make sure to start with a small amount to see how your dog responds and you can give it before situations that usually make your dog nervous.
Skullcap
Skullcap is a traditional herb that has long been used in herbal medicine for its natural calming effects. It is well-known for supporting relaxation and easing nervous tension. In dogs, Skullcap helps promote a sense of calm as well as balance and is additionally valued for its gentle nature, as it supports calmness without causing heavy drowsiness.
How it works for Dog Anxiety
Skullcap contains natural compounds that work on the nervous system to encourage relaxation and reduce feelings of restlessness. It supports the body’s ability to handle stress in a gentle and balanced way. Unlike stronger sedatives, skullcap does not knock dogs out but helps them stay calm while still being alert and active. This makes it an excellent herb for dogs that need steady support in maintaining a relaxed state.
How to use it
Skullcap can be found in tinctures, capsules, or as part of calming herbal blends made for pets. The right dosage depends on your dog’s size, so always follow the instructions on the product or consult a vet for guidance. It can also be added to food or given directly as recommended.
Passionflower
Next, Passionflower is a natural herb known for its calming and relaxing properties and it has been used for centuries in herbal medicine to support a calm mind and reduce stress. In dogs, passionflower helps promote relaxation and a sense of overall well-being as its natural compounds work gently on the body, supporting a balanced mood and helping dogs feel more peaceful without sedation.
How it works for Dog Anxiety
The active ingredients in passionflower interact with the nervous system to encourage a natural state of calm. This way, they help increase calming chemicals in the body while reducing tension, promoting relaxation in a gentle way. Unlike strong sedatives, passionflower works subtly, supporting emotional balance and helping maintain overall calmness.
How to use it
Passionflower comes in forms like tinctures, powders, and capsules that can be added to food or given directly. Additionally, the proper dose depends on your dog’s size and weight, so it’s important to follow product instructions carefully.
Theanine
Theanine is a natural amino acid found mainly in green tea leaves. It is known for its relaxing and calming effects without causing drowsiness. In dogs, theanine helps support emotional balance and a calm mood. It is widely used to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and maintain overall well-being. Unlike stronger sedatives, theanine allows dogs to stay alert while feeling naturally relaxed.
How it works for Dog Anxiety
Theanine works by supporting the production of calming chemicals in the brain. It helps regulate stress responses and promotes a sense of mental calm and focus. Its non-drowsy nature makes it gentle and safe, encouraging a relaxed state without affecting energy or alertness. This makes theanine an ideal natural supplement for daily support or during mildly stressful situations.
How to use it
Theanine is available in capsules, chews, or powders designed for dogs. The proper dose depends on your dog’s size and weight, so it’s important to follow product instructions carefully. Theanine can also be added to food or given directly as recommended.
German Chamomile
German Chamomile is a gentle herb known for its calming and soothing properties. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to support relaxation, reduce tension, and promote overall well-being. In dogs, German Chamomile helps maintain a sense of calm and comfort. It is also known for its mild anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits, making it a versatile herb for overall health.
How it works for Dog Anxiety
The natural compounds in German Chamomile, such as flavonoids and essential oils, work on the nervous system to support relaxation. They gently encourage a state of calm while also soothing the digestive system and reducing minor inflammation. This also makes it a gentle, natural way to support a dog’s emotional and physical balance without causing drowsiness or strong sedation.
How to use it
German Chamomile can be given as a tea, tincture, or in capsule form specifically designed for dogs. It can also be added to food or used in calming herbal blends. The correct dosage depends on your dog’s size and weight, so it’s important to follow product instructions.
Conclusion
To sum it up, helping your dog stay relaxed doesn’t always need medicines. Many herbs like chamomile, valerian, and CBD provide safe, natural solutions and with proper guidance, these remedies can ease dog anxiety and create a more peaceful life for your furry friend.