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When our beloved four-legged friends struggle with anxiety or restlessness, it tugs at every dog lover’s heartstrings. Whether it’s thunderstorms, fireworks, vet visits, or simply separation anxiety, finding a gentle way to soothe their nerves is crucial. That’s why turning to natural sedatives can be a wonderful solution to help your dog stay calm without relying on harsh chemicals. In this round-up, we explore the best natural sedatives for dogs, carefully chosen to ensure safety, effectiveness, and ease of use. Each product not only promises to help your dog relax but also supports our mission of happy homes, healthy dogs, and empty shelters.
#1 – iHeartDogs Hemp Calming Chews for Dogs – Dog Anxiety Relief Bites with Hemp – Bacon Flavored Dog Calming Treats for Anxiety and Stress
The iHeartDogs Hemp Calming Chews for Dogs are bacon-flavored soft chews designed to relieve anxiety and stress in dogs. These treats are tasty and appealing to dogs, helping them feel like they are getting a treat rather than a medicinal product. They are also formulated to promote a sense of calm in dogs and support natural joint mobility. Additionally, the product has undergone third-party testing and has been approved by the Clean Label Project for its quality and safety.
#2 – Pet Honesty Hemp Calming Chews for Dogs – Natural Soothing Chews with Hemp + Valerian Root, Stress & Dog Anxiety Relief – Helps Aid with Thunder, Fireworks, Chewing & Barking (Beef Liver) – 90 Count
Pet Honesty Hemp Calming Chews for Dogs is a natural and safe way to help combat anxious behavior in dogs. Made with organic hemp and other natural ingredients like Valerian Root and Organic Chamomile, these chews aid in reducing nervousness, hyperactivity, and stress caused by environmental factors. The chews are made in the USA with high-quality ingredients and are free from artificial preservatives, soy, wheat, and corn. Pet Honesty is a reputable company that follows strict safety standards and is a member of the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC).
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#3 – Bach RESCUE REMEDY PET Dropper 20mL, Natural Stress Relief, Calming for Dogs, Cats, & Other Pets, Homeopathic Flower Essence, Thunder, Fireworks & Travel, Separation, Sedative-Free
The Bach RESCUE REMEDY PET Dropper is a stress relief tincture for pets that contains natural flower essences to help alleviate tension, nervousness, and excitability. It can be used for dogs, cats, horses, rabbits, birds, and lizards. The calming drops are sedative-free and can be used in various stressful situations such as vet visits, thunderstorms, fireworks, separation, and travel. The product is trusted by pet owners globally and is made with a doctor-developed formula that includes plant-based active ingredients and is free of artificial flavors/colors, sugar, gluten, and major allergens. It can be used for pets of all breeds, ages, and weights, and can be combined with other health and wellness products.
#4 – pawlife Hemp Dog Calming Chews – Anxiety Relief Treats, 60 Calming Treats for Dogs, Organic Calm Pup Dog Anxiety Relief, Calming Care for Dogs (Bacon Flavor)
Pawlife Hemp Dog Calming Chews are a natural solution to help dogs with anxiety. The veterinarian-formulated formula includes organic hemp and other calming ingredients to support joint health and reduce anxiety. These bacon-flavored treats are made with all-natural ingredients and are free from common allergens, providing a safe option for dogs. This product is recommended for daily use and is suitable for both puppies and older dogs.
#5 – NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid Dog Supplement – Helps Promote Relaxation, Reduce Stress, Storm Anxiety, Motion Sickness for Dogs – Tasty Pet Soft Chews with Melatonin – 70 Ct.
The NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid Dog Supplement is a high-quality health supplement designed to promote relaxation and reduce stress in dogs. It contains melatonin, ginger, L-Tryptophan, and thiamin to help dogs with anxiety during storms or travel. These tasty soft chews are made in the USA and have been trusted by pet owners since 1994.
#6 – Hemp Well Calm Dog Soft Chews Relieves Anxiety, Calms and Relaxes Your Dog, Aids in Stress Relief and Behavioral Issues, Organically Sourced (1 Pack (8 Chews))
Hemp Well Calm Dog Soft Chews are a natural supplement designed to support relaxation and relieve anxiety in dogs. Made with organic ingredients such as chamomile, melatonin, and Omega content, these chews help to keep dogs calm and at ease in stressful situations. They may also assist with separation anxiety, trainability, and other behavioral issues in dogs. Additionally, the product supports a healthy immune system with its perfect ratio of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids and complete proteins. It is organically sourced and produced through sustainable methods, making it a safe option for dogs of all breeds and sizes.
#7 – Zesty Paws OraStix for Dogs – Calming Dental Sticks for Stress with Hemp Melatonin Chamomile Dog Healthy Teeth and Gums Calm Composure for Fireworks and Thunderstorms 12oz
Zesty Paws OraStix for Dogs are dental sticks designed to help calm and relax nervous or hyperactive dogs. They contain Suntheanine, a clinically studied form of L-Theanine, which promotes relaxation and calmness in dogs. The sticks also include ingredients like Melatonin, Chamomile, Valerian Root, Taurine, and Hemp Seed to provide additional support. In addition to promoting calmness, the OraStix also features a Healthy Teeth & Gum Complex to support periodontal health.
What Are Some Supplements That Can Be Used as Natural Sedatives for Dogs?
- Chamomile: This herb has calming properties and is often used in humans to induce sleep or reduce stress. It can have a similar calming effect on dogs.
- Valerian Root: Known for its tranquilizing effect, valerian root can be effective for soothing anxious dogs, especially during events like thunderstorms or fireworks.
- Passionflower: This herb can help reduce nervousness in dogs, especially when combined with other calming herbs like valerian root.
- L-Theanine: This amino acid, found naturally in tea leaves, can help increase levels of dopamine and other neurochemicals that promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
- Melatonin: Often used to regulate sleep patterns in both humans and dogs, melatonin can also be effective in reducing anxiety in dogs, especially during stressful events.
- Lavender: The aroma of lavender is known for its calming properties. While it’s more commonly used in aromatherapy, there are also oral supplements available.
- Hemp Oil/CBD: Cannabidiol (CBD) derived from hemp plants has been shown to have a calming effect on dogs, reducing anxiety without the psychoactive effects associated with THC.
- Bach Flower Remedies: These are dilutions of flower material developed by Edward Bach, an English bacteriologist. “Rescue Remedy” is a popular blend known to help with pet anxiety.
- Lemon Balm: An herb from the mint family, lemon balm can help soothe anxious dogs due to its mild sedative properties.
- Tryptophan: An amino acid commonly associated with turkey, tryptophan is used in the body to produce serotonin, a mood stabilizer.
It’s important to note that while these natural remedies can be effective, they might not work for every dog. Dosage, potential interactions with other medications, and the individual dog’s condition should be discussed with a veterinarian before administering any supplement.
Conclusion: Best Natural Sedatives for Dogs
Choosing the right natural sedative for your dog is about understanding their needs and responding with the gentlest and most effective solution. The products we’ve highlighted offer a variety of natural ways to help your dog cope with stressful situations, all while keeping their well-being at the forefront. Remember, each purchase from our round-up helps fund meals for shelter dogs, bringing us closer to a world where every dog leads a life filled with love, security, and serenity. So, not only do these products help calm your pet, they also give back to those still waiting for their forever homes. Together, we’re working towards a future of empty shelters and happy, healthy dogs.