Best Calming Treats For Dogs

What are the Best Calming Treats For Dogs?

• Best Overall Calming Dog Treats: Honest Paws Calm Bites
  The CBD formula in these calming dog treats provides powerful relaxation for dogs suffering from stress, anxiety, and behavioral problems.
• Extra Strength Calming Treats for Dogs: Penelope’s Bloom CBD Treats
  Oven-baked and full-spectrum 600mg treats enriched with CBD for dog anxiety.
• Best Organic Hemp Calming Treat: Batch CBD Pet Treats
  Each treat contains 25mg of cannabidiol with a pet-friendly peanut butter flavor.
• Best Soft Chew Calming Dog Treats: Open Farm Calming Supplement Chews for Dogs
  Uses only beneficial ingredients that are 100% traceable.
• Best Hemp Oil Calming Dog Treats: Vet-Virtue Calming Treats for Dogs
  These bite-sized treats are easy to administer with a beef flavor dogs love.
• Best Vet-Recommended Calming Dog Treats: Vets Preferred Calm Hemp Soft Chew
  The L-tryptophan in these calming dog treats offers dogs a mild sedation effect that is useful in reducing anxiety.
• Most Reviewed Calming Dog Treats: NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid Dog Supplement
  These treats have over 30,000 reviews on Amazon alone, which makes them the most reviewed dog treats on this list by a large margin.
• Best Textured Calming Dog Treats: Zesty Paws Calming Soft Chews for Dogs
  These treats contain suntheanine, a premium and pure form of L-theanine, as the calming agent.
• Most Eco-Friendly Calming Dog Treats: Only Natural Pet Calming Hemp Soft Chews
  The ingredients in these treats are 100% carbon neutral ad sustainably sourced to reduce the impact on the environment.
• Best Filler-Free Calming Dog Treats: PetHonesty Hemp Calming Chews
  While most calming dog treats are made with few fillers, the only ingredients in these treats are active calming ingredients and vegetables.
• Best Limited Ingredient Calming Dog Treats: Vetriscience Composure Calming Treats
  There are only three active ingredients in these dog treats that offer stress and anxiety relief in dogs, but they are all effective in doing so.

What are Calming Treats For Dogs?

Calming treats for dogs are healthy dog treats that contain active ingredients with calming properties. Classified as calming supplements, they usually contain CBD oil, chamomile, or melatonin.

Calming dog treats make dogs feel safe and relaxed. The active ingredients interact with the brain to promote a state of calmness.

Are Calming Treats Safe?

Yes, calming treats for dogs are safe.

Calming supplements are made with dog-friendly ingredients and usually feature a flavor and texture dogs love. Here are some of the situations in which calming treats are useful:

• Traveling (car, train, plane)
• During thunderstorms
• Noise phobias
• Separation anxiety episodes
• Generals nervousness
• Destructive behaviors and hyperactivity
• Easing stressful situations
• Curbing excessive barking

Do Calming Dog Treats Work?

Yes, calming treats for dogs work.

Calming treats for dogs promote relaxation in anxious and stressful situations. They can also be useful in helping to curb destructive behavior and unwanted behavior.

Calming treats for dogs can also be used to manage the stress that arises from medical problems such as joint pain and stiffness in older dogs with arthritis.

How do Dog Calming Treats Work?

Calming treats for dogs work by interacting with the brain and changing the brain chemistry in a way that promotes calmness and relaxation.

When a dog is in a stressful situation, their fight, flight, or freeze response kicks in. This is a dog’s natural reaction to a perceived threat, and it can make it unpredictable, destructive, or dangerous. If this reaction is a response to something it can’t see, like thunder, the anticipation can compound the stress a dog is feeling.

Calming treats helps to subdue the anxiety brought on in these scenarios in several ways, based on the active ingredient.

For example, they can make increase serotonin production to ease stress. CBD oil interacts with the brain’s endocannabinoid receptors, thus promoting a state of calmness. Amino acids like L-theanine and L-tryptophan quell aggressive behavior, while passionflower increases gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels and relieves anxiety.

What are the Benefits of Calming Treats for Dogs?

Using calming dog treats makes the dog relaxed and puts the owner’s mind at ease. Here are the benefits of using calming treats for dogs:

• Calmer Dog. Giving dogs a calming treat before a stressful event can help provide anxiety relief and stress relief so dogs can better enjoy, or at least ignore, the moment of stress.
• Disorder Relief. Dogs can suffer from mental disorders the same way humans do. Calming treats can help ease symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, and stress in dogs.
• Increased Safety. A stressed or anxious dog can be unpredictable and lash out or run out of fear. This can lead to unfortunate scenarios for the dog, and calming treats can help them to feel more secure at the moment, lowering the chance of a mishap.
• Overall Wellness. Many calming dog treats feature additional active ingredients that support overall health. For example, they can contain vitamins, minerals, immune boosters, probiotics, or antioxidants.

The Best Calming Treats For Dogs Reviewed

There are dozens of calming treats for dogs on the market. We have reviewed the top seven products to help you find the right calming supplement for your dog.

Honest Paws Calm Bites

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Summary: This high-quality health supplement is formulated for times when your dog is stressed, like traveling, storms, or when dealing with separation anxiety. In addition to promoting calmness and managing behavioral problems, these CBD-infused peanut butter treats support cognition.

They contain 5 mg of CBD oil per treat and are made with all non-GMO ingredients. As a bonus, an auto-delivery option is available at checkout. Also, there are discounts for subscription plans, and the brand offers a 30-days money0back guarantee.

Best for: Adult dogs

Flavor Options: Peanut Butter Flavor

Price: $2.63/oz

Ingredient Analysis: Active ingredients in these calming treats for dogs include organic full spectrum hemp oil, and this gives the treat its calming effects on dogs. Inactive ingredients include organic MCT oil, barley flour, oats, and peanut butter, and these are used for texture and flavor.

Review: Customers like that these calming treats for dogs are chewable enough to be eaten by their dogs who have dental issues, and the treats worked their magic in helping to ease their dog’s anxiety. There were over 500 reviews on the brand’s website, and we could find no negative or overtly critical reviews anywhere within them.

Penelope’s Bloom CBD Treats

Get it on Penelope’s Bloom

Summary: Penelope’s Bloom is a small CBD brand that cares about quality. Their treats are oven-baked in small batches to ensure the best standard. The Penelope’s Bloom CBD treats are all-natural and specifically made for dogs with stress and anxiety. They feature full-spectrum hemp oil and come in two different potencies, thus being perfect for large and giant anxious dogs.

Hemp Source: Non-GMO hemp

Extraction Method: Co2 extraction

Potency Options: 10 mg per chew, 20 mg per chew

Subscription Program: Yes, with discount

Review: Pet owners say the Penelope’s Bloom CBD treats bring their pets “to the most mellow place ” and praise the treats for “really working.” All in all, Penelope’s Bloom offers the best extra-strength CBD treats for dogs with anxiety.

Batch CBD Pet Treats

Summary: Batch CBD treats are infused with premium cannabidiol that is 100% organic hemp grown in Wisconsin. Each treat contains 25mg of cannabidiol with a pet-friendly peanut butter flavor, making them easy to administer. These treats are designed to help dogs struggling with stress and anxiety while also containing ingredients that can help with joint health. At Batch, each formula is developed in-house to ensure your dog is getting the best quality.

Best for: Dogs of all ages

Flavor Options: peanut butter

Price: $59.99

Ingredient Analysis: The first ingredient in these premium dog treats is CBD isolate derived from hemp. Each treat contains 25mg of cannabidiol that contains less than 0.3% THC so they are perfectly safe for dogs. This is paired with vitamin C to help reduce inflammation and safflower oil which is an excellent source of omega-6 fatty acids. Additionally, they contain Glucosamine, MSM, and Chondroitin for an added boost of joint support for dogs.

Review: Many happy pet owners report that Batch CBD has been a great addition to their dog’s daily routine. Dogs love the rich peanut butter flavor these treats contain and have no problem gobbling them up.

Open Farm Calming Supplement Chews for Dogs

Summary: Open Farm’s Calming Supplement Chews for Dogs were created using only beneficial ingredients that are 100% traceable and suggested by veterinarians to assist and encourage relaxation and lessen anxiety, whether from temporary owner separation to frightful vehicle rides. Get 20% off your first auto-ship order with code VET20.

Best for: Dogs of all ages

Flavor Options: Hemp Seed & Passion Flower

Price: $0.39 Per Chew

Ingredient Analysis: The active ingredients of this product are hemp seed oil, passion flower, chamomile, Valerian root, L-Theanine, and L-Tryptophan. Review: Plenty of dog owners are happy and satisfied with this product. They reported that these chews really helped calm their dogs’ anxiety, especially during New Year’s Eve when fireworks were blasting from outside their homes.

Vet-Virtue Calming Treats for Dogs

Vet-Virtue Calming Treats for dogs is a calming supplement that helps dogs with anxiety and stress-related behaviors using organic hemp oil. These treats contain a blend of ingredients including organic chamomile, organic valerian root extract, and magnesium. These bite-sized treats are easy to administer with a beef flavor dogs love.

Best for: Dogs of all ages

Flavor Options: Beef

Price: $20.99

Ingredient Analysis: The first ingredient in these soft chews is organic hemp oil, which promotes calmness and composure. This is paired with organic chamomile, organic ginger root, L-tryptophan and organic passion flower, organic valerian root extract, and magnesium. This blend of ingredients balances a dog’s disposition naturally and reduces anxious behaviors and compulsions.

Review: Pet owners are pleased with Vet-Virtue Calming Treats for dogs, stating it has really helped calm their anxious dogs. From car rides to thunderstorm anxiety, these calming supplements have helped relieve the stress of both dogs and their owners.

Vets Preferred Calm Hemp Soft Chew

Get it on Amazon

Summary: The 100% non-GMO formula in these calming treats is tested by a third party to ensure the best quality product is sent to store shelves. They feature the amino acids L-theanine and L-tryptophan that help reduce anxiety and stress in dogs.

The veterinarian grade, premium organic hemp is formulated for consistent absorption and effectiveness and is made exclusively for dog consumption. Effects these treats are meant to have include relaxation, reduced aggression, and mild sedation. Plus, the treats have an enjoyable chewy texture.

Best for: Adult dogs

Flavor Options: Poultry Flavor

Price: $6.60/oz

Ingredient Analysis: Organic full-spectrum hemp oil is the first ingredient in these calming treats for dogs. These oils are free of GMOs, soy, corn, and other contaminants and are tested by a third party to ensure the best quality. L-theanine and L-tryptophan are used to promote anxiety relief and better sleep quality through the occasional anxiety episode.

Review: Numerous pet parents state these calming treats for dogs helped reduce their dogs’ anxiety. The treats have helped their pet’s quality of life increase and are safe for everyday use. Negative reviews were sparse, but the most common complaint was that their dog wouldn’t eat these treats.

NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid Dog Supplement

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Summary: These treats are made into small soft chews that offer dogs peace in stressful moments using ingredients like chamomile, ginger, and melatonin. These treats contain no wheat or dairy products, so they are not likely to upset a dog’s stomach.

The treats are made in the USA for dogs who are fearful or anxious when exposed to loud noises or left alone for extended periods. These treats are meant to be used with dogs 12 weeks or older and are soft enough to be chewed at almost any life stage.

Best for: Dogs older than 12 weeks

Flavor Options: Quiet Moments

Price: $2.64/oz

Ingredient Analysis: Active ingredients include chamomile, thiamine, passion flower, melatonin, ginger, and L-tryptophan, all of which are safe stress reducers for dogs. Inactive ingredients include canola oil, brewer’s yeast, maltodextrin, tapioca starch, and flaxseed which give these calming treats for dogs their flavor, texture, and consistency.

Review: Customers praise these calming treats for dogs saying they “work like a charm” and were an “absolute lifesaver” for their dogs. Other buyers complain about their dogs having negative reactions to the treats and customer service appearing to be apathetic to their concerns, although they mention they were reimbursed without issue.

Zesty Paws Calming Soft Chews for Dogs

Summary: The organic ingredients in these calming dog treats are formulated to ease anxiety by stimulating the alpha brain waves in a dog to promote composure and relief. They are formulated with suntheanine, a pure and premium form of L-theanine.

They also include additional stress-relievers like passion flower, valerian root, and ginger root to help combat aggressive behavior. This formula is dedicated to easing dogs into a calm state. With organic ingredients and safe, natural chemistry, these treats are safe for dogs of all ages.

Best for: Dogs of all ages

Flavor Options: Peanut Butter Flavor

Price: $2.59

Ingredient Analysis: Organic hemp powder is the first ingredient, and this gives the treats part of their calming power. Thiamine, organic chamomile, valerian root, and organic passion flower make up most of the remaining active ingredients, and all are safe for dogs but also provide a great calming effect. Overall, these are great calming treats for dogs.

Review: Dog owners were thrilled with the effects these calming treats for dogs had on their pets. Most said their dog had separation anxiety or issues with loud noises that were mitigated by these treats, while a smaller number said these treats allowed them to take their dogs off daily medication for anxiety. Critical reviews, however, made up almost 15% of total reviews. The most common complaint was that their dog wouldn’t eat them.

Only Natural Pet Calming Hemp Soft Chews

Get it on Amazon

Summary: Hemp seed, chamomile, and magnesium are the main relaxing, active ingredients in these dog treats. They are formulated by holistic veterinarians, specifically for dogs experiencing stress and anxiety.

Balanced with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, the natural ingredients in these treats are easy to digest and promote healthy brain function and nervous system support. They are made in the US and formulated with 100% carbon natural and sustainably sourced ingredients for dogs of all ages.

Best for: Adult dogs

Flavor Options: Original

Price: $2.83/oz

Ingredient Analysis: Active ingredients in these calming treats for dogs include hemp seed meal, taurine, hemp seed oil, and chamomile flower to provide a safe and effective means of calming anxious dogs. Inactive ingredients include things like brewer’s yeast, calcium sulfate, and glycerin for taste and texture.

Review: Most customers were satisfied with the effect these calming treats for dogs had on their pets. They most commonly left remarks stating simply that the product works on their dog to reduce barking and anxious behavior. Negative reviews were often just as simple, with comments saying the treats did no work or that they had made their dog sick.

PetHonesty Hemp Calming Chews

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Summary: Organic hemp mixed with other natural ingredients like hemp oil, valerian root, and chamomile provide the power to these calming supplements. They are formulated to provide relief for motion sickness, aggression, anxiety, and fearful behavior.

These chews are easy to eat and digest for dogs at any life stage. Their new and stronger formula includes more hemp oil for a more calming effect without harmful side effects and is suitable for dogs of all ages.

Best for: Dogs of all ages

Flavor Options: Beef Liver; Chicken; Max Strength Duck

Price: $2.56/oz

Ingredient Analysis: Valerian root, organic chamomile, organic hemp seed powder, and ginger root are the active ingredients. These are safe and effective foods that offer dogs a calming effect with little to no adverse side effects. Other ingredients include carrots, sweet potato, and flaxseed. Overall, this is an excellent ingredients list for calming treats for dogs.

Review: Reviews were mixed with these calming treats for dogs. Only 56% of total ratings were 5-stars, which is relatively low for a product like this. Those who left positive reviews loved this product and said their dogs were thankful for the effect these treats had on them during stressful periods. One and two-star reviews, however, made up over 15% of ratings, with the most common complaint being an off-putting odor.

Vetriscience Composure Calming Treats

Get it on Amazon Get it on Chewy

Summary: The bite-size calming chews in this package have clinically shown to be effective within 30 minutes of consumption. The formula of L-theanine and thiamine have been recognized to support calmer behavior and relaxation in anxious dogs.

The treats can be administered daily and feature flavors dogs enjoy so they won’t grow tired of them anytime soon. They are made in the USA and formulated to be safe for consumption by dogs of all ages.

Best for: Dogs of all life stages

Flavor Options: Chicken Liver; Peanut Butter

Price: $2.56/oz

Ingredient Analysis: The only three active ingredients are colostrum, L-theanine, and thiamine which are all safe and effective in reducing a dog’s stress and anxiety. Brewer’s yeast, canola oil, and hydrolyzed chicken flavor are all added for flavor, and rosemary extract helps to provide a small number of antioxidants. This is a good list of ingredients for calming treats for dogs.

Review: Consumers were happy with the price of these calming treats for dogs and said they worked “better than Prozac” for their dogs. Several reviewers said, “at this price, they’re worth a try,” and recommended them. Several buyers, however, made comments that their dogs woke up drooling excessively or became hyperactive when eating these treats, and they were let down by these reactions.

What Ingredients Should I Look for in Dog Calming Treats?

When shopping for calming treats for dogs, you should look for several ingredients such as:

• CBD Oil. CBD oil is derived from hemp, not from cannabis, and has been shown to interact with receptors in the central and peripheral nervous systems to help maintain balance in the body and keep the brain working normally.
• Passionflower. Passionflower increases the production of GABA – one of the main inhibitory neurotransmitters in the central nervous system. This reduces nerve cell activity in an anxious dog’s brain.
• Valerian Root. Valerian root is an herbal supplement with a mild sedative effect in dogs that can help reduce anxiety.
• Melatonin. Melatonin is a sleep hormone that encourages dogs to become relaxed by making them feel sleepy.

Overall, just like with dog food, calming treats should be made with natural ingredients. They tend to have better nutrient values and are easier and safer for the dog to digest.

Petlab Co. Calming Chew for Dogs

• Supports calmness, composure, and relaxation in your dogs without causing drowsiness or lethargy
• Helps alleviate occasional anxiety, nervousness, or even aggression
• Made using high-quality ingredients from the US and prime locations worldwide

Get it on Chewy

When Should You Give a Dog Calming Treats?

It is best to give calming dog treats about 40 minutes before an anticipated stressful event such as fireworks or storms. This is only helpful if you know the event is coming, though.

There are supplements that can be used on a daily basis that provide a more mild calming effect, and these can be used in dog training for hyperactive dogs, as long as the dog does not become too lethargic after taking the supplement.

How Many Calming Treats can a Dog Have?

The number of calming treats a dog can have per day depends on the dog’s size and the level of active ingredients within the treats.

For example, if using the Honest Paws Calm Bites, you can give one treat a day to dogs less than 25 lbs; two treats to dogs between 25 and 50 lbs; and three treats to dogs over 50 lbs.

It is imperative to consult with your veterinarian before using calming treats for dogs. It is also important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

How Long do Calming Treats For Dogs Take to Kick In?

Typically, calming treats take about 40 minutes to take effect.

During that time, you may want to distract your dog with a dog chew or some activity. Taking your dog for a walk will stimulate their metabolism and help the active ingredient kick in faster.

Giving them a distraction of any kind will be helpful to keep their minds busy and engaged. This can be especially useful during things like storms as it can help them stay focused on what they are doing for more extended and ignore the beginning of whatever event stresses your dog out.

What Are the Side Effects of Calming Treats For Dogs?

Feeding too many calming treats for dogs can cause stomach upset and, based on the ingredients, side effects such as drooling, lethargy, increased sleepiness, and uncoordinated walking. If high in fillers and added sugars, these treats can even lead to weight gain and obesity.

Do Vets Recommend Calming Treats?

Yes, most veterinarians recommend calming treats for dogs. 

They help curb unwanted behavior such as trying to escape, shaking, hiding, aggression, and in some cases, destructive behavior.

Calming treats are also handy in reducing general and situational pet anxiety brought on by loud noises, car rides, and situations in which the dog is frightened or uncomfortable.