“Effective Calming Aids for Dogs”
When your dog feels stressed—whether it’s due to thunderstorms, fireworks, car rides, or vet visits—finding the right calming aids can make all the difference. From supplements and calming chews to anti-anxiety vests, pheromone sprays, collars, and interactive puzzle toys, there are many options designed to help dogs feel more relaxed and comfortable.
After consulting with experienced trainers, veterinarians, and real dog owners, we personally tested a variety of calming aids with our own dogs to ensure safety and effectiveness. Dr. Alejandro Caos, DVM, emphasizes, “While calming aids can be helpful, they should never replace proper training, socialization, or necessary medical treatment. If you’re unsure whether a calming aid is right for your dog, always check with your veterinarian first.”
Veterinarian Dr. Chris Roth, DVM, also reminds us, “Every dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Finding the right calming solution often requires some trial and error, and sometimes a combination of products.”
Our Top Picks for Calming Aids for Dogs
- Best Overall: VetriScience Composure Calming Chews for Dogs — $21
Proven supplements that promote relaxation and reduce anxiety in dogs of all ages. - Best Wearable: ThunderWorks ThunderShirt Classic Calming Vest — $48 $37 (On Sale)
A gentle, pressure-based vest that helps calm dogs during stressful situations. - Best Diffuser: ThunderEase Calming Diffuser for Dogs — $25
Diffuses natural pheromones to create a calming environment in your home. - Best Spray: ThunderEase Dog Calming Pheromone Spray — $24
Easy-to-use spray that helps soothe your dog before and during stressful moments. - Best Collar: Adaptil Calming Pheromone Collar for Dogs
Long-lasting pheromone release designed to reduce anxiety on the go. - Best Puzzle Toy: West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl Dog Puzzle Treat Toy — $26
Engages your dog mentally and distracts from anxiety with fun treat puzzles. - Best Treat for Calming: Odor-Free Bully Stick — $50
A natural, long-lasting chew that promotes relaxation. - Best Jerky Treat: REAL MESA Beef Kabobs Dog Jerky Treat — $19
Healthy, high-protein treats that keep your dog occupied and calm.
Best Overall
VetriScience Composure Calming Supplement for Dogs
CREDIT: AMAZON
What We Like:
- Can take effect within 30 minutes for some dogs
- Effects may last up to 4 hours
- Available in several tasty flavors
- Backed by the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) seal of approval
What We Didn’t Like:
- May not work for every dog
Veterinarians frequently recommend VetriScience Composure Calming Chews as a natural way to reduce anxiety without resorting to prescription medications. For example, my nervous border collie mix, Brodie, tends to relax noticeably with just half a chew during stressful situations like heavy rain or nearby construction noise.
Each soft chew contains a blend of active ingredients such as colostrum, L-theanine, and thiamine—components that have been scientifically shown to promote calmness and relaxation in dogs. These chews are easy to give, making them ideal for moments of acute stress like fireworks or vet visits, or even as a daily supplement for managing ongoing anxiety.
The chews come in appealing flavors like peanut butter, bacon, and chicken, making them palatable for most dogs. Dosage is weight-based, with up to three bone-shaped chews recommended per day depending on your dog’s size. For extreme stress events, the manufacturer suggests it may be safe to increase the dose—but always consult your veterinarian first and start with the smallest amount to gauge your dog’s response.
VetriScience proudly holds the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) seal, meaning the product meets rigorous standards for quality, safety, and labeling. Although not every product works for all dogs, Composure comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.
Additionally, VetriScience offers variations such as a longer-lasting formula, an unflavored liquid version, and a clinical strength option, allowing you to choose what fits your dog’s needs best.
TIPS: Composure chews may begin working within 30 minutes and provide relief for several hours, making them a convenient and trusted choice for calming anxious dogs naturally.
Best Wearable
ThunderWorks ThunderShirt Classic Calming Vest for Dogs
CREDIT: AMAZON
What We Like:
- Easy to put on and take off
- Available in seven sizes, from XX-small to XX-large
- Comfortable enough to be worn for extended periods
- Made with breathable, stretchy fabric
- Recommended by veterinarians
What We Don’t Like:
- May not work for every dog
The ThunderShirt Classic Calming Vest provides a soothing, gentle hug that helps calm anxious dogs by applying gentle, constant pressure. Crafted from a soft, stretchy blend of polyester, rayon, and spandex, this vest wraps snugly around your dog and fastens easily with adjustable hook and loop straps.
Offered in seven sizes, the ThunderShirt fits dogs ranging from just 8 pounds up to 110 pounds, making it accessible for nearly all breeds and sizes. There’s also a polo-style version with the same fabric blend but a slightly different design.
Perfect for use during stressful situations such as car rides, vet visits, thunderstorms, fireworks, or times of separation anxiety, the vest can be worn for several hours at a time. During the initial uses, it’s a good idea to monitor your dog closely to ensure the vest fits comfortably without causing any irritation or rubbing.
More We Recommend
ThunderEase Calming Diffuser for Dogs
CREDIT: AMAZON
What We Like:
- Drug-free, natural therapy
- Recommended by veterinarians
- Portable and easy to use anywhere
- Lasts up to 30 days per refill
What We Don’t Like:
- Not effective for all dogs
The ThunderEase Calming Diffuser is a plug-in device designed to release synthetic dog-appeasing pheromones (DAP) that mimic those produced by a nursing mother dog. These pheromones help soothe and calm dogs by triggering a natural, comforting response.
Simply plug the diffuser into any standard 120-volt outlet at home or in unfamiliar environments like hotel rooms, and enjoy continuous pheromone release for up to 30 days. Refills are widely available and straightforward to replace. Many dog owners use it 24/7 to help with separation anxiety, while others activate it only during stressful events such as thunderstorms or fireworks.
Importantly, the diffuser emits no detectable scent to humans, making it discreet and non-intrusive. If you prefer, the same calming pheromone formula is also available in spray form or incorporated into collars.
ThunderEase Dog Calming Pheromone Spray
CREDIT: AMAZON
What We Like:
- Calming effects start within about 15 minutes
- Effects can last for several hours
- Odorless to humans
What We Don’t Like:
- May not work for all dogs
The ThunderEase Dog Calming Pheromone Spray delivers a quick mist of calming pheromones that help relax anxious dogs. Similar to the pheromone diffuser, this spray mimics the natural comforting scents released by a mother dog to soothe her puppies.
Using the spray is simple and convenient—ideal for on-the-go situations like car rides or visits to unfamiliar places. The brand suggests spraying 8 to 10 pumps in the targeted area (such as your car, dog’s bed, or crate) and waiting about 15 minutes before introducing your dog. The calming effect typically lasts several hours, though reapplication every 4 to 5 hours may be necessary for extended relief.
For added benefit, you can spray it directly onto a ThunderShirt calming vest to enhance its soothing effects or combine it with calming chews.
Adaptil Calming Pheromone Collar for Dog
CREDIT: CHEWY
What We Like:
- Easy to put on and adjust for a snug fit
- Can be paired effectively with other calming aids
- Suitable for dogs of all ages
What We Don’t Like:
- Not effective for every dog
- Calming potency lasts about one month before replacement is needed
Recommended by veterinarians, the Adaptil Calming Collar helps reduce anxiety and nervousness in dogs without medication. Infused with natural pheromones similar to those released by a mother dog, the collar works by releasing these calming scents activated by your dog’s body heat.
Available in three sizes—puppy, small, and medium/large—the collar is made of durable plastic and designed to fit comfortably without restricting your dog’s movement. It should be worn alongside your dog’s regular collar during walks, not as a replacement.
For best results, many pet owners combine the Adaptil collar with other calming products like calming chews or diffusers to provide comprehensive anxiety relief. The pheromone effect lasts about a month, after which you should replace the collar to maintain its soothing benefits.
West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl Dog Puzzle Treat Toy
CREDIT: AMAZON
What We Like:
- Holds spreadable treats like peanut butter and bully sticks securely
- Available in two sizes for different dog breeds
- Dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning
- Floats, making it perfect for water play and fetch
- Made from durable, tough Zogoflex material
What We Don’t Like:
- Not suitable for loose treats or kibble alone
The Qwizl by West Paw is an exceptional calming and enrichment toy designed to keep dogs engaged and relaxed. Its unique design features a long opening running through the center and smaller holes along the sides, perfect for stuffing with soft spreads like peanut butter or yogurt. You can also insert bully sticks for a challenging chew session. Because licking is soothing for many dogs, the Qwizl helps reduce anxiety by occupying your pup with a long-lasting, tasty activity.
Constructed from Zogoflex, a tough, rubber-like material, this toy is built to withstand strong chewers. It comes in small and large sizes, suitable for a range of dogs, and three bright colors. Plus, it floats, so it doubles as a fun water toy at the beach or lake.
Easy to clean and dishwasher-safe, the Qwizl is a durable, versatile addition to your dog’s calming toolkit.
Understanding Dog Anxiety
All animals, including dogs, experience anxiety at times. Dogs live in a human world where they often have little control, and the environment can become hectic and confusing for them. Anxiety can be a serious issue, especially if you notice persistent signs of stress that impact your dog’s quality of life. In such cases, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian or a skilled dog trainer.
A good first step is to identify and adjust aspects of your dog’s environment that may be causing stress. By making these changes, you can encourage calmer behaviors that help everyone feel a little more relaxed and comfortable.
What To Look For in Calming Aids for Dogs
When To Use Calming Aids
Calming aids can be helpful in situations where dogs might experience stress or anxiety, such as:
- Travel: Many dogs become stressed during car or plane rides.
- Separation Anxiety: Dogs may feel anxious when left alone.
- Loud Noises: Thunderstorms, fireworks, and other loud sounds can frighten dogs.
- Vet Visits: Some dogs get nervous or stressed at the vet, especially if they’ve had unpleasant past experiences.
- New Places: Being in unfamiliar environments like a new home can cause anxiety.
Predicting these anxiety triggers can make all the difference. For example, packing calming chews in your dog’s travel kit or giving calming aids about two hours before predictable events like fireworks (e.g., July 4th or New Year’s Eve) can help your dog stay relaxed.
Remember, calming aids should never replace proper training, socialization, or veterinary treatment when needed. If you’re unsure whether a calming aid is right for your dog, always consult your veterinarian.
Common Active Ingredients in Calming Aids
Various natural substances have been studied for their calming effects, though effectiveness can vary by dog and situation:
- L-theanine: An amino acid found in green tea and some mushrooms, known to reduce anxiety in some dogs.¹
- Valerian Root: An herb with sedative properties used to treat sleep issues and anxiety.
- Chamomile: Popular herb for calming and anxiety relief.
- Passionflower: Traditionally used to ease anxiety and improve sleep.
- Pheromones: Chemicals that mimic the comforting scent of a nursing mother dog.
- Melatonin: A hormone that regulates sleep cycles and may help ease anxiety.
Side Effects and Risks
While calming aids are generally safe, dogs can react differently. Always follow dosage instructions and observe your dog’s response. Possible side effects include:
- Allergic Reactions: Itching, swelling, or breathing difficulties caused by sensitivity to ingredients.
- Medication Interactions: Some calming aids can interfere with other medications—always check with your vet.
- Behavioral Changes: Some dogs may become more agitated instead of calmer according to some studies.
- Overdose Risks: Excessive doses can cause drowsiness, lethargy, respiratory problems, or seizures.
FAQ
How long do calming aids for dogs last?
The effectiveness and duration of calming aids vary depending on the product and your dog’s individual response. “Some natural calming aids, such as chamomile or valerian root, may take longer to kick in and usually last only a few hours,” explains Dr. Caos.
On the other hand, calming vests or collars can last anywhere from several hours up to a few days. Supplements containing natural ingredients like L-theanine or melatonin may provide effects lasting 8 hours or more.
“The duration also depends on your dog’s size, age, and overall health,” adds Caos. “Always follow the recommended dosage and carefully observe how your dog responds.”
How do you know if your dog needs a calming aid?
An anxious dog often shows behaviors that differ from their usual demeanor. Common signs of anxiety include:
- Hiding or trying to escape
- Pacing or restlessness
- Panting excessively
- Tail held low or tucked
- Excessive barking or whining
- Shaking or trembling
- Decreased appetite
- Urinating or defecating indoors or in unusual places
- Flattened ears
This list is not exhaustive, and your dog may only display some of these signs.
If you notice any of these behaviors, it’s best to discuss them with your veterinarian. We recommend filming your dog during anxious episodes, which can help you and your vet better understand the source of anxiety and decide on the most appropriate calming aid or treatment.