When your pup’s dealing with stress or occasional anxiety, it’s only natural to want to do whatever you can to help them feel at ease. Whether you have a dog who sometimes struggles with separation anxiety or who gets upset about stressful events like thunderstorms, fireworks or trips in the car, the best calming aids for dogs can help them stay calm, cool and collected. To help you choose the right one for your anxious fur baby, we’ve rounded up the best dog calming aids based on Chewy customer sales, ratings and reviews.
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Best Liquid Dog Calming SupplementGNC Pets ULTRA Calming Tincture Dog Supplement, 60-ml bottle $18 on Chewy
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Best Powder Dog Calming SupplementPurina Pro Plan® Calming Care Powder Supplement for Dogs, 30 count $34 on Chewy
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How To Find the Best Dog Calming Aid
There are a variety of different types of dog calming aids on the market (see more on the types below). Andrea Cermele, DVM, a veterinarian at Best Friends Animal Society, says to consider the following before buying:
- The source of stress or anxiety: Understanding what causes your dog’s anxiety can help determine which type of calming aid is best. Dr. Cermele says anxiety in dogs can stem from various factors, such as separation from their pet parent, changes in their environment, loud noises or even their health. A short-term solution like a dog calming chew may work well for a visit to the vet, while a longer-term solution like a compression vest or plug-in diffuser may be best for separation anxiety or ongoing anxiousness.
- Your dog’s preferences: All dogs are different, so consider what your dog may be more drawn to before buying a calming aid. For example, some may not like to wear items, so a calming collar or anti-anxiety vest wouldn’t work well for them. Others may really enjoy treats, which would make calming treats a good option to try.
- Whether it’s suitable for dogs: Even though DIY remedies (including essential oils) are well-meaning, not all of them are suitable for dogs. Always select a calming aid that is specifically designed for dogs and highly rated and well reviewed. When opting for a calming supplement, look for the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) Quality Seal on the package, which indicates that a company has undergone a third-party audit and meets certain quality-control criteria. Be sure to follow all dosage instructions, too.
- Your vet’s input: Always consult your veterinarian before buying or using any dog calming aids. They can help provide guidance on what to buy, and can also help determine the source of your pet’s stress.
10 Best Dog Calming Aids
Following are the calming products other pet parents just like you use and recommend. As always, remember to consult your veterinarian before trying any calming aid for dogs. They can help you rule out any medical causes for stress and anxiety before you pursue behavioral supplements such as these.
Best Overall Dog Calming Aid
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Best treatment for anxious dogs
I've used thunder jackets on my dog and i've used doctor prescription medication for the dogs for anxiousness from thunderstorms, fireworks, etc. These calming hemp chews are the only thing that has ever worked. They love the taste and they work fairly quick. I highly recommend.
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Works great.
I have a 75lb hound that is terrified of thunder, fireworks etc. I give her a Pet Honesty calming chew and it work fantastic.
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Calm dogs
This really calms our dogs down and is especially great to have for the on and around the 4th of July with all of the fireworks.
Best Dog Calming Chew
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A happy Pet is a CALM Pet...
I give two tablets to my Pet Kids anytime fireworks are scheduled. These have never made them sick and I am grateful for that!
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Helps calm our fur baby
Our 7 yo Sheltie suffers anxiety during summer months from fireworks and thunderstorms. These don’t completely eliminate those problems but she definitely handles things better. I had previously been purchasing a similar item from a company that exclusively deals with CBD products (which I myself take) but when they advised they were out of stock in spite of our being in their subscription plan, I found these at Chewy and am glad I did because they are far more affordable.
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Great product,
I purchased these to assist with the Thundershirt and they do help. He is not perfectly calm in a storm, but is more comfortable. It is going to take time to get him where he is comfortable in a storm, but the Thundershirt and the Calming chews are making a big difference.
Best Liquid Dog Calming Supplement
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Calming meds
This worked really well to calm our 60lb fur baby while visiting family at Christmas. They have an older dog and ours is just 1 yr old. Still springy like a puppy. Very good product.
Best Powder Dog Calming Supplement
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A Calmer Fur-Baby!
Although it says that it takes 6 weeks for Calming Care to be fully functioning, I have seen a difference in just 2 weeks.
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Great Product
Hazel loves the flavor of the calming care. I sprinkle it on her food and she loves it. It has helped to calm her down and help with aggression.
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Calming care works!
I use this product with my dog. Seems to help him with digestive issues. I use the cat calming care as well and it’s made a big difference with my cat’s IB issues
Best Dog Calming Spray
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Great spray
My dog was a basket case during storms. This spray on her blanket calmed her down immediately. I could not believe it.
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Works
My dog, goes nuts during inclement weather, she tries to climb the walls, drools, shakes, and does not settle down. I spray a blanket that sits beside my chair with this spray and the floor. She comes around and starts snuffling the blanket and actually settles down next to me!
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worked like a charm
Within 5 minutes two sprays of this Naturally Calmer Dog my chocolate lab was just "chillin" through the rest of the thunderstorm. I cannot recommend this product high enough and it is so much better to use instead of those powerful sedatives from the vet.
Best Diffuser for Calming Dogs
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Great product!
I have been using Adaptil for years at the suggestion of my VET. It has make a big difference in my dog who also suffers from seizures!
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I have a grouchy dog who likes to police my other dogs and this has helped her calm done very well.
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Tucker relaxed
Tucker has some anxiety issues and if I keep the Adaptil in the room it truly seems to help him. It was recommended by Tucker’s Vet.
Best Dog Calming Collar
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Very helpful
My elderly rottweiler has shown signs if anxiety throughout her older years but this necklace has helped quite a bit. Especially when we have company.
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Hemp helper calm collar
My dog has been so much calmer since we started using this collar. I love the scent. it is really easy to size and it stays on.
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Life savor!
My Boston Terrier is not a huge fan of traveling! I put this hemp collar on him before we went on a road trip and was actually super surprised! The collar calmed him down very very shortly after it was put on& we ended up having a wonderful trip. My dog slept nearly the whole time, very relaxed!
Best Anti-Anxiety Apparel for Dogs
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Thunder Vest
We ordered this for our 13 year old dog that was traumatized by last year's fireworks. This year he wore his new Thunder Vest and was not at all fazed by fireworks in our area.
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Anxiety
I haven’t used it yet fireworks were over when I got it and haven’t had thunder storms either a friend of mine has one and told me it worked great I didn’t know about it until my friend told me wished I would of known about it earlier so I think it will work great
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Thundershirt
My dog has been able to get through a thunderstorm if we put the Thundershirt on at the first sound of thunder. It is easy to put on and he seems comfortable in it even if he has to wear it for an extended period of time
Best Toy for Calming Dogs
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Great enrichment for the shelter dogs
I fill 70 of these at a time and freeze them for the shelter dogs! Best summer day interactive treat. The shelter pups love them.
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Perfect for our Jack Russell
Jack Russell's can be tough on toys. I know because we have had 5 of them over the years using Kong's and they can't wear them out quickly. I insert small Milk Bone or a Chewy and it works great. One of our dogs knows the word Kong and helps me to find it!
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Classic Kong is just right
Our new dog had been chewing things he shouldn't, so we decided to get him several toys to see which would keep him happy. The classic Kong toys was just the right fit.
Best Dog Calming Bed
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She loved it instantly
We’ve tried dog beds off and on for years and my dog would never use them. This one she immediately began using it.
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All four love them
Got short plush this time . The long shag looks terrible after a few washes. They don't care but I do
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Cozy little bed.
The only drawback I found to this bed is that it rocks ititially because of how it's constructed so when your pooch jumps into it the first few times, it's an adventure. Once in it though, the rocking stops. Now that it's been in use, initial entry doesn't seem to be an issue any longer. It's wonderfully comfy (at least from the looks our pooch gives us) and appears to stay cool to the touch which is nice on a hot day. Our dog is 10pounds and we purchased the small size which is just perfect - not too small and certainly not too big!
How We Chose These Products
All the products we’re featuring in our list of dog calming aids are best-sellers at Chewy that are also top-rated, having a 4-star rating or higher. You can rest assured that customers—dog parents just like you—have used these products and love them. We know how tough it can be to navigate the retail space, so we wanted to take that burden off your shoulders so you and your pup can feel better pronto.
Types of Dog Calming Aids
Just as there are many different types of stressful scenarios, there are many different types of calming aids for dogs. Here are some of the most common options.
Calming Supplements
Calming supplements, delivered via dog chews, powder or liquid drops, are a useful way to manage your dog’s occasional anxiety. The chews can be given on their own, while the liquid drops and powder supplements are usually mixed in with the pet’s food. You get the benefit of leveraging a familiar object (that they enjoy) to administer the supplement, and they enjoy the snack.
“These products often contain ingredients such as L-theanine, L-tryptophan, valerian root, chamomile and melatonin,” says Dr. Cermele. “Many dog owners find these effective for reducing stress related to situations like thunderstorms, travel or visits to the vet office.”
Other common ingredients used in these calming chews include ginger and thiamine. What’s not to love about a savory chicken-flavored, pork-flavored or bacon-flavored treat that has wellness benefits, too?
Calming Sprays
Dog calming sprays help reduce reactions to stressful situations either through “dog-appeasing pheromones” (DAP) or natural ingredients known for their calming benefits, such as lavender and chamomile. They work by mimicking natural calming signals that help your pup feel more at ease, making them ideal for short-term stressful events such as thunderstorms, travel or fireworks.
They’re typically sprayed on your dog’s environment, bedding or directly on the fur (if deemed safe). (Note: If you have different types of pets in the home, like a cat, make sure the spray is fully dry before letting your pets interact. Products meant for dogs could be toxic to cats.)
Plug-in Diffusers
Wall diffusers plug directly into an electrical outlet and disperse a calming pheromone into the air to help soothe your pup, Dr. Cermele explains.
They’re similar to sprays, only they emit the scent non-stop versus for short periods of time. That makes them suitable for situations when your dog experiences longer durations of stress—like when you’re away from the house and they have separation anxiety—or in cases where your pup is often on edge.
Calming Collars
Calming collars are placed around your dog’s neck and emit a calming smell via pheromones or herbal ingredients. “The most popular type of calming collar uses synthetic versions of the pheromone that mother dogs produce to soothe their puppies,” Dr. Cermele says. “Studies and subjective evidence suggest that pheromone-based collars can be effective in reducing anxiety in many dogs, particularly for ongoing stressors like periods of separation, changes in the home environment or loud noises like fireworks.”
She adds that herbal-based collars, which use ingredients such as lavender and chamomile, may also have a soothing effect, though their effectiveness can vary more widely among individual dogs.
Generally speaking, calming collars are non-invasive and convenient, making them a practical option for dog parents who may find it challenging to administer supplements or other calming aids regularly.
Anti-Anxiety Apparel
Certain garments are designed to have a calming effect on dogs, including anti-anxiety vests and calming caps. They provide gentle compression similar to swaddling. The light, constant pressure helps calm your dog’s nervous system. Vests compress your dog’s body, while caps create pressure around their head. (Note: For caps, you’ll want to make sure they aren’t so tight as to cause choking.) Since they’re placed over your dog’s ears, they can also help reduce stressful loud noises.
“Many dogs find this pressure comforting, and it can help reduce anxiety during stressful situations such as travel, vet visits or thunderstorms,” Dr. Cermele says. They can also work well for grooming sessions (especially caps to shield pets from the new noises) and other overwhelming environments.
Toys
Stress-relieving dog toys are specifically designed to provide your pup with mental stimulation, comfort and, yeah, a bit of distraction from whatever’s making them feel anxious. These toys often incorporate features such as calming scents, treat-dispensing mechanisms and soft, chewable materials.
Some examples include lick mats, interactive puzzles, and frozen toys or objects that they can chew for long periods of time. These are great for when your pup is left alone or going through a stressful event at home, like a thunderstorm or when you have visitors.
How To Calm Dogs
Stressed or anxious dogs exhibit both clear and subtle signs. Dr. Cermele says that obvious signs include:
- Excessive barking or whining
- Cowering
- Trembling
- Growling
- Snapping
- Biting
- Panting (not related to exercise or heat)
- Pacing
- Digging
- Appetite changes
- Destructive behaviors like chewing or getting into items they shouldn’t
“Less obvious signs of stress include yawning when not tired and excessive lip licking,” Dr. Cermele says. “Dogs may also show avoidance behaviors, such as turning away, hiding or trying to escape from a situation. Excessive drooling, dilated pupils or seeing more of the whites of the eyes—known as whale eye—can also indicate stress.”
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it’s important to get to the bottom of the issue. Follow these expert tips from Dr. Cermele for helping to calm stressed dogs.
Step 1: Identify the Stress Trigger
Observe your dog’s behavior and try to pinpoint what triggers their anxiety. Common causes of stress in dogs include loud noises, separation from their pet parents, new environments or experiences, health issues and a history of trauma. All these sources will require unique approaches to calming your dog’s anxiety.
Step 2: Create a Safe Environment
One of the best things you can do to help ease your dog’s stress levels is to provide them with a safe space with accessibility. Set up a quiet, comfortable area where your dog can retreat, with their bed, toys and blankets. Do what you can to minimize exposure to triggers like loud noises or unfamiliar environments or experiences.
Step 3: Try Calming Aids
Along with a safe environment, it’s often helpful to soothe your pup with calming aids, including the options we’ve included above. You’ll want to choose the best type of calming aid for your dog’s source of anxiety and their personal preferences. Always use these items according to instructions and consult with your veterinarian for advice.
Step 4: Engage in Calming Activities
Dogs require both mental and physical stimulation to help reduce their overall anxiety levels and boost their well-being. Make sure to engage them in regular physical exercise via walks, indoor playtime, or outdoor parks and activities. Mental stimulation can come from interactive games, like puzzles and tug-of-war. Training is another great way to mentally engage your pup.
Step 5: Maintain Consistency
As best as you can, try to maintain consistent schedules for feeding, walking and playtime. Sticking to a schedule helps your dog know what to expect each day. During situations that are out of the norm or stress-inducing, provide your dog with calming aids and activities, adjusting as needed to suit their needs.
Talk to Your Veterinarian
While calming products for dogs are helpful, it’s important to remember that every pup is unique and all situations require individualized treatment. “Consulting with a veterinarian before starting any new calming aid is always a good idea, as they can provide guidance tailored to your dog’s specific needs and ensure there are no underlying health issues contributing to their anxiety,” Dr. Cermele says.
She also recommends veterinary intervention for a stressed or anxious dog anytime signs of stress don’t resolve or worsen with simple behavioral interventions, and in cases where your dog’s anxiety is causing significant behavioral changes, such as aggressive tendencies, excessive barking, destructive behavior or withdrawal.
Dog Calming FAQs
Q: What is the best thing to calm a dog?
A: The best way to calm a dog is to determine the source of their stress or anxiety and do what you can to minimize the stressor. Creating a calm and safe environment can help, as can using a dog calming aid such as a calming collar, vest or treat.
Q: Do calming aids work for dogs?
A: Yes, dog-specific calming aids can work well for dogs. There’s research and anecdotal evidence that supports the use of pheromone-based dog calming products, chew toys, calming treats and beyond. The type of aid you use will depend on the cause of stress and your dog’s preferences.
Q: Are there any side effects associated with dog calming aids?
A: Dog calming aids are generally considered safe, but there are potential side effects to consider. These include digestive issues, sedation, skin irritation from collars, respiratory problems with sprays, discomfort from vests, potential toxicity from aromatherapy, overconsumption with treats and behavioral dependency. Consult a vet before use and monitor for adverse reactions.
Q: Can I give my dog a calming aid before a vet visit?
A: Some pet parents find it very helpful to provide their dog with a calming aid before going to the vet or groomer, which are understandably stressful situations. This can range from giving them a calming supplement (like a chew), giving them a calming toy, or putting them in a calming vest or cap.
Life can be stressful, but that doesn’t mean your dog has to be stressed-out. Give them a new sense of ease, whether they’re faced with loud noises or car rides, with the best calming aids for dogs. Looking for other ways to reduce your dog’s stress? Check out our guide on how to calm dogs with anxiety.
Expert input provided by Andrea Cermele, DVM, a veterinarian at Best Friends Animal Society, a leading national animal welfare organization.
This content was medically reviewed by Chewy vets.
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