If you’ve ever been around an anxious dog, you know that this unsettling feeling is as real for our four-legged companions as it is for us humans — we must address it accordingly. At DogTime, our experts understand this well and have curated a list of the best calming treats for dogs that will help you either calm down your beloved pooch in times of distress or entirely prevent a stressful situation.
All breeds can experience anxious episodes, and the way that these calming supplements work is by addressing your dog’s fight, flight, or freeze response to a stimulus. The list of things that can trigger your pet’s anxiety is seemingly endless — vet visits, car drives, firecrackers, thunderstorms, mailmen, sirens, etc.
While some of them will catch you and your pet by surprise, it might be wise to prevent possible anxiety triggers and give them calming aids ahead of the occurrence of the event. Additionally, consulting with your veterinarian before giving your dog any dietary supplements is always a good idea.
Do Calming Treats for Dogs Really Work?
While taking into account that calming treats are not a one-size-fits-all approach to stress management in dogs, the overwhelming anecdotal evidence suggests that they do work. The different ingredients in calming treats work in different ways. The most common ones are:
- L-theanine: This amino acid, found in tea leaves and some mushrooms, is renowned for its relaxation-promoting properties.
- Chamomile: A plant often used in herbal medicine, it is popularly used for its calming and soothing effects.
- Valerian root: A sedative-type herb typically used to promote relaxation and alleviate insomnia and anxiety.
- Melatonin: This hormone helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle and can address anxiety in dogs.
- Passionflower: Used to reduce anxiety and improve sleep, this plant is known for its calming properties.
- Hemp: Typically used in its omega-3-rich seed oil form, it supports brain health and mood regulation in dogs.
Experts opine that while calming treats help address short-term and long-term stress in dogs, they should be treated as a part of a more extensive, holistic approach to managing anxiety. Understanding the root cause of anxious behavior is an important step, as is tailoring the treatment to each individual dog.
Additionally, it is always good to remember that calming treats are not a replacement for giving your pet the right training, socializing them well, or seeking medical help when needed.
The Best Calming Treats for Dogs in 2025
Making our furry friends comfortable when they are stressed is extremely important, and finding a supplement that does its job well is half the battle won.
Our experts at DogTime have evaluated the market and chosen the following calming treats for dogs that can effectively address any anxiety that your pup may be facing. As with any dietary supplement, please consult your vet before starting your pet on any one of them.
Best Vet-formulated
Grateful Pawz Hemp Calming Chews
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Why We Love
Vet-formulated
Contains melatonin and hemp
Suitable for dogs of all breeds and sizes
Promotes composure during stressful events
Soft chew format
Made in the USA with high-quality standards
But…
May not be effective for extremely high-anxiety dogs
Made by veterinarians, Grateful Pawz Hemp Calming Chews give you a science-backed solution to everyday stressors for your pup. These soft chews are meant to help your dog calm down without making them sleepy or out of sorts. The expert blend of calming ingredients, like melatonin and hemp, helps them feel calm and in control of their emotions.
Because these chews are vet-formulated and made in the USA, you can trust that each bite meets high-quality standards for safety and effectiveness. They’re suitable for dogs of all sizes — from tiny nervous pups to larger breeds prone to overexcitement — and work to reduce behaviors like barking, pacing, or scratching.
BEST OVERALL
VetriSCIENCE Composure Calming Chews
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
NASC certified
It does not contain sedatives
Gets to work within 30 minutes
Promotes calm and balanced behavior
No unwanted side effects
Available in three flavors
But…
Not necessarily made for daily use
Although you can use these daily, the VetriSCIENCE Composure chews have been clinically proven to decrease anxiety during a specific stress-inducing event. For instance, if you are expecting a thunderstorm or planning a vet visit, you should keep them handy. These NASC-approved supplements take effect within 30 minutes of administration and can keep your furry friend calm for up to 4 hours.
Containing ingredients such as L-theanine, thiamine, and a bioactive protein blend, these chews act quickly to soothe your dog and promote balanced behavior. They are available in three flavors: peanut butter, bacon, or chicken, making them appealing to fussy dogs. Since they do not contain any sedatives, you can easily double or triple the dose without worrying about side effects such as extreme drowsiness.
Best Vet-recommended
VET IQ Calming Treats
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Why We Love
Promotes relaxation
Made from natural ingredients
Supports soft skin
Delicious flavor
USA-made
More affordable than others
But…
Individual responses may vary
Sometimes, there is no escaping a stressor, such as fireworks on the 4th of July. If you have a dog that is scared witless around loud noises, you’ll likely need more than just earplugs to help them get by. Vet IQ calming treats are formulated to not just promote relaxation during a stressful event but also balance the dog’s emotional state.
Made from calming natural ingredients such as chamomile powder, L-tryptophan, theanine, and lavender extract, these treats can be an effective tool in your canine stress management arsenal. Next time you know that your dog is going to have a stressful episode, give your dog these hickory smoke-flavored chews according to their weight and see the difference for yourself!
Best Travel-friendly
NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid
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Why We Love
Has the NASC Quality Seal
It contains melatonin, which promotes rest
Reduces stress
It contains natural calming ingredients like chamomile and passionflower
Available as soft chews, chew tablets, and drops
Formulated by veterinarians
But…
Not flavored
If you believe in sleeping away your troubles (or your dog’s), you may want to try these melatonin-infused treats from NaturVet. Featuring a Quality Seal from the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) and formulated by veterinarians, you can rest assured that you’re picking a quality calming aid for your pooch.
Intended for use in dogs older than 12 weeks, these treats contain additional calming ingredients, including chamomile, passionflower, thiamine, and L-tryptophan, in addition to melatonin. For daily stressors, such as separation anxiety, when you go to work, you can give your pet the recommended dose of soft chews 30 minutes before stepping out. This way, they will calm down ahead of the stressful situation and may fall asleep when you leave home.
Best for Fireworks
Solid Gold Calming Supplement
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Why We Love
Delicious flavor
Suitable for dogs of all sizes and ages
Soft chew formulation
Provides composure
Supports digestive and immune health
Reduces hyperactivity
But…
Bigger breeds may require a single dose of up to six chews
What is better than a calming chew treat? A yummy calming chew treat. Solid Gold calming chews for dogs come in a delicious smoked bacon flavor that your dog will love. Packed with a proprietary blend of camomile, valerian root, L-theanine, ashwagandha, L-tryptophan, and melatonin, these chews are effective in helping your furry friend cope with their anxiety. Plus, it contains a unique blend of ingredients that support your pup’s digestive and immune health, a win-win.
Apart from promoting relaxation, soft chews also reduce restless behavior or hyperactivity, making them ideal for use during stressful events for your dogs, such as thunderstorms, fireworks, or car rides. The soft chews are safe for daily use — start with half of the suggested dose and increase it gradually.
Best for Separation Anxiety
PremiumCare Hemp Calming Chews
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Why We Love
Promotes relaxation
It contains organic hemp seed oil and hemp protein powder
No preservatives
Available in two flavors: bacon and duck
Promotes overall well-being
100% hassle-free return and refund
But…
Not suitable for puppies under 12 weeks of age
Some calming supplements work better on certain dogs than others, and the reason usually boils down to the combination of ingredients. These chews from PremiumCare are made from common calming substances like chamomile and valerian root, but have the added benefit of organic hemp seed oil and hemp protein powder, which helps promote your pup’s overall health.
Helpful in maintaining healthy stress levels in your dog, the chews are also free from preservatives or synthetic ingredients, reducing the risk of unwanted allergens. Consistent use over four to six weeks will give you a more relaxed and emotionally balanced version of your dog.
Best for Hyper Dogs
Zesty Paws Lil’ Zesties Calming Squares
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Why We Love
NASC quality seal
Available in smoked chicken flavor
No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
Helps with hyperactivity
Promotes focus and clarity
Suitable for dogs of all ages
But…
The squares break easily
You can never be sure of what stressors a day might bring you or your furry friend, but you can be sure of the quality of supplements you use to combat them. Zesty Paws calming squares have the NASC quality seal and contain melatonin, chamomile, and passionflower — natural calming ingredients that help reduce nervousness and hyperactivity in dogs.
These chews also feature a premium form of ashwagandha called Sensoril, which aids in your four-legged companion’s clarity, focus, and relaxation. Made from high-quality ingredients and available in smoked chicken flavor, the chewable squares are intended for use in dogs of all ages. The dosage depends on their weight, so be sure to check the correct dose for your furry friend.
Best for Vet Visits
Pet Honesty Hemp Calming Chews
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Why We Love
NASC member company
Promotes relaxation
Non-drowsy formulation
Eases anxious behaviors
Reduces hyperactivity
No artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors
But…
More expensive than other options
Certain stressful situations, such as a vet visit, can require your pooch to be calm and composed yet active. So, if you are looking for a calming supplement for your pooch that does not make them drowsy, these vet-approved calming chews from Pet Honesty may be just the product for you. The brand is also a NASC member company, ensuring its products are quality-compliant.
Specially formulated with valerian root, organic chamomile, organic hemp seed powder, and ginger root, these supplements are ideal for anxious dogs exhibiting hyperactivity. Additionally, these chews contain an all-natural blend of ingredients that support your dog’s digestive and immune health.
Best Calming Chews
SmartBones Calming Care
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Why We Love
Satisfies a dog’s natural chewing instinct
Supports a sense of calm
Made from real chicken and vegetables
A healthy alternative to rawhide chews
Easy to digest
Vitamin and mineral-enriched
But…
Not made for daily consumption
Sometimes, when your dog is in distress, just the simple act of chewing may help them recalibrate their system and calm down. This is when SmartBones chew sticks can come in handy. Not only do they promote chewing behavior, but they are also infused with the goodness of chamomile and lavender, natural ingredients known for their soothing properties.
Since these chew sticks do not contain any rawhide and are made from real chicken and vegetables, they are easy on your precious pooch’s digestive system. Safe to use in adult dogs, these chews are recommended for intermittent feeding only. So the next time you find your dog in a stressful event, give them these sticks and help them ease into a calmer state.
Best With Hemp
STRELLA LAB Calming Hemp Chews
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Combines natural hemp oil and melatonin
Safe for dogs of all ages and breeds
Aids restful sleep
Vet-approved formula
Long-lasting results
90-day guarantee
But…
Available in only one flavor
Do you have a dog that is a light sleeper or one that startles easily at night? Then consider these calming hemp chews from STRELLA LAB. Made from natural ingredients and enriched with natural hemp oil and melatonin, these treats not only provide relief from anxious behaviors but also act as a sleeping aid.
Even anxious pups can’t resist the comforting taste of bacon-flavored soft chews. Our special blend caters to dogs of all ages, from the energetic young pups to the more mature adults. With regular daily use, you’ll notice a significant improvement in your dog’s composure and calmness, making usual triggers much easier to handle.
Best for Sleep-Aid
Native Pet Calm Chews
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Made with 100% real chicken
Air-dried chew treats for maximum efficacy
Formulated by experts
Suitable for dogs of all ages
No additives or fillers
Supports sleep and relaxation
But…
It comes in only one flavor
Some dogs don’t do well in new environments or when introduced to new people or pets. If you foresee such a situation for your pooch, you can keep these chews from Native Pet handy for a one-time use. Alternatively, you can give them to your dog daily in the recommended dose.
When it comes to soothing your stressed pooch, our expert-formulated chews contain all the right stuff — hemp seed powder, dried casein, L-theanine, and even melatonin. And because they have been air-dried, the treats retain every bit of the raw ingredients’ wholesome benefits.
Best for Large Dogs
ThunderWunders Hemp Seed Calming Chews
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Vet recommended
Ideal for situational anxiety
Promotes rest and relaxation
It contains hemp seed oil and melatonin
Reduces stress
Money-back guarantee
But…
Not suitable for puppies under 12 weeks of age
When a brand knows what they are doing, it is easy to trust them. ThunderWorks is a company known for inventing the ThunderShirt, a popular stress-relieving vest that veterinarians recommend. ThunderWunders Hemp Seed chews, a product from the same brand, is not just another option; they are effective in reducing your dog’s situational anxiety.
Use these chew treats before a stressful event, such as a thunderstorm, fireworks, or a grooming session, and watch them visibly relax. Enriched with hemp seed oil, hemp seed powder, chamomile, thiamine mononitrate, passion flower, ginger, L-tryptophan, and melatonin, these bite-sized treats are ideal for dogs that need support in reducing their stress levels.
Best for Grooming Sessions
Pet Naturals Busy Butter Calming Peanut Butter
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Calming peanut butter formulation
Non-drowsy
No added sugar or salt
No artificial ingredients
Keeps dogs engaged when used in occupier toys
Safe to be used daily
But…
May not squeeze out of the pouch smoothly
Distraction is a great way to help dogs deal with their anxiety. Lick mats or occupier toys can take their mind off their nervous state. Designed for use with toys and mats, this butter from Pet Naturals will not only keep your furry friends engaged for extended periods but also help them relax, thanks to its unique formulation of calming ingredients.
The peanut butter is formulated without any salt or sugar, making it safe for your beloved furry companion to consume. Add to it the stress-relieving properties of ingredients like L-tryptophan, thiamine, and L-theanine, and your pooch will be sure to thank you for this smooth treat that also makes them feel calmer.
Best for Motion Sickness
Natural Dog Company Anxiety Relief Chews
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Vet approved
All natural ingredients
Safe for dogs of all ages
Hand-crafted in small batches
Soothes an upset stomach
But…
Available in only one flavor
When you know an event is coming up, and it may distress your fur baby, you can be better prepared to handle it. Formulated by vets to address stressful situations, these anxiety-relief chews from Natural Dog Company help your dog address restlessness while also soothing upset stomachs.
Made from a potent blend of melatonin, valerian Root, L-tryptophan, and ginger root, these peanut butter and bacon-flavored chew treats have a calming effect on your dog’s nerves and, in turn, help reduce destructive hyperactivity.
How Long Do Calming Treats for Dogs Last?
The duration of a calming treat’s effect varies depending on the specific product, your dog’s size and sensitivity, and the severity of their anxiety. Typically, you can expect the calming effects to last anywhere from 2 to 8 hours.
It’s essential to follow the dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer. Some treats might require multiple doses throughout the day for optimal results. Always monitor your dog’s behavior and adjust the dosage accordingly under the guidance of your veterinarian.
For dogs with severe anxiety, combining calming treats with other management strategies and consulting with a veterinarian is recommended.
How We Chose the Best Calming Treats for Dogs
At DogTime, our experts curated this list of the best calming treats for dogs by assessing factors such as ingredients, quantity, possible side effects, ease of use, and safety. They further consulted with industry professionals to gain more insight into the top-selling products, using their guidance and experience to bring our readers the very best. When you choose one of our recommended products, you can rest assured that you’re making an informed purchase from the best brands available on the market.
FAQ
What are the best dog-calming treats?
The best dog-calming treats will typically contain natural ingredients like chamomile, valerian root, passionflower, or hemp extracts, which have calming properties. Brands like Zesty Paws, VetriScience, NaturVet, and Purina calming care for dogs are popular among vets and pet parents. Remember to consult with your vet to choose suitable treats for your dog.
Do vets recommend calming treats?
Yes, many vets recommend calming treats for dogs, especially for situational anxiety or stress. However, you must remember that these are dietary supplements and definitely consult a vet before starting your dog on them.
What should I give my dog to relax?
You can consider options like calming treats that contain ingredients such as chamomile, valerian root, or even melatonin. In certain instances, using a calming vest, soothing music, or soothing activities like a gentle massage may also help relax your dog.
How long do calming treats last for dogs?
It’s different for different types of calming treats. The ones used for situational anxiety typically have effects that can last from a few hours to several hours, depending on the ingredients in the product and the dog’s response. Others are daily calming supplements that take longer to show effects but also have long-lasting changes in the dog’s composure.
What calms dogs the most?
The answer to this question entirely depends on individual dogs. But broadly, consistent routines, regular exercise, mental stimulation, comfortable environments, soothing music, massage, and calming supplements may help calm most dogs.
Can you give dogs calming treats daily?
Yes, some of them are formulated with ingredients that are absolutely safe to give to dogs daily. However, you must strictly follow the brand’s recommended dosage based on your dog’s weight.
Do calming treats make dogs sleepy?
This depends on the ingredients in the treats. If they contain melatonin, known for its sedative properties, they may make a dog drowsy when given in the correct dosage. Individual responses to melatonin, however, will vary. So, monitor your dog once you provide them with a treat with melatonin in it.
What is the best stress reliever for dogs?
Different things work for different dogs. While some dogs might find physical activity or mental stimulation to be good stress relievers, others might do better with the support of calming aids such as treats, chews, or vests.
What is the most calming way to pet a dog?
The answer to this question would differ from dog to dog, but before you approach a dog to pet them, make sure you are calm. This is because dogs tend to pick up on the human’s emotions. Start by placing your flat palm on their neck and make long strokes downwards. Additionally, if you are unsure of the dog’s response, you could always give them the correct dose of calming treats to be more receptive to your touch.
