Like humans, dogs also experience anxiety due to various reasons. The reasons can be separation from their owners, loss of their partner/children, loud noise, or other unfamiliar conditions. Anxiety and stress among dogs can sometimes become a serious issue when not carefully observed or treated on time. This is where anxiety supplements for dogs from trusted and vet-approved brands can help.
There are many brands offering calming and anxiety supplements for dogs. But not every supplement is tested and vet approved. As a pet parent, you must verify all the ingredients in supplements before buying the one.
In this post, you will find a list of essential ingredients in stress and anxiety supplements for dogs.
Signs Your Dog Might Be Suffering from Anxiety or Stress
Your dog communicates in ways you might miss if you're not paying close attention. Some signs of anxiety and stress in dogs include:
1.Sudden aggression or withdrawal
2.Excessive barking or howling
3.Tail-chasing or self-licking
4.Loss of appetite
5.Shaking or trembling
6.Destructive chewing, especially when left alone
7Accidents in the house
These behaviours often signal something deeper than just “bad behaviour.” It’s your dog’s way of expressing discomfort. Recognising these signs early can help you act before minor stress develops into chronic anxiety.
Essential Ingredients to Look for in Calming Dog Supplements
When selecting canine calming supplements, don’t fall for fancy packaging alone. Check the label for these proven ingredients that support relaxation and ease anxiety naturally:
1. L-theanine
L-theanine is a non-protein amino acid found primarily in green tea leaves. It’s known for promoting calmness without causing sedation.
L-theanine boosts the production of serotonin and dopamine – the brain chemicals that regulate mood, emotions, and sleep. It encourages alpha brain waves, which are linked to a state of relaxed alertness. For dogs, this means reduced fear and anxiety, especially in situations like thunderstorms, fireworks, or being home alone. (Source: NIH)
How much is safe:
Most calming dog supplements contain 10–50 mg of L-theanine per chew or tablet. Safe daily doses are typically:
- Small dogs (under 10kg): 10–20 mg
- Medium dogs (10–25kg): 20–30 mg
- Large dogs (over 25kg): 30–50 mg
You can give it daily or about 30–60 minutes before a stressful event.
2. Magnesium
Magnesium is an essential mineral that supports muscle and nerve function, and it plays a key role in how the body responds to stress.
Low magnesium levels can increase nervousness and irritability in dogs. Supplementing magnesium can reduce cortisol (the stress hormone), help muscles relax, and regulate the nervous system — making dogs less likely to react aggressively or anxiously to triggers.
How much is safe:
The typical recommended daily intake of magnesium for dogs is:
- Dogs under 10kg: 25–75 mg
- Dogs 10–25kg: 75–150 mg
- Dogs over 25kg: 150–300 mg
Too much can cause diarrhoea, so stick to vet-approved supplements or check dosage on labels.
3. Tryptophan
Tryptophan is an amino acid that helps the brain make serotonin — a neurotransmitter that stabilises mood, improves sleep, and reduces anxiety.
Tryptophan has a calming effect on dogs, especially those with generalised anxiety, aggression, or restlessness. It works by promoting serotonin production, which helps regulate emotional responses and reduce impulsive behaviour.
How much is safe:
A safe and effective range is about 6.5–15 mg of tryptophan per kg of body weight daily. For example:
- 10kg dog: 65–150 mg
- 25kg dog: 160–375 mg
Many calming supplements offer between 50–250 mg per dose depending on the dog's size.
4. Chamomile
Chamomile is an herb used for centuries as a mild natural sedative. It has anti-inflammatory and soothing effects.
Chamomile targets the central nervous system, helping to relieve tension and promote relaxation. It’s particularly effective for acute anxiety — like vet visits, car travel, or grooming. It also helps with minor digestive upsets caused by stress.
How much is safe:
Chamomile is typically included in calming treats at 20–100 mg per chew. You can also brew weak chamomile tea (1 tea bag in 250ml water) and add 1–2 teaspoons to your dog’s food or water. Avoid giving concentrated extracts unless under vet guidance.
5. Passionflower
Passionflower is a climbing vine with calming, sedative properties. It's a common ingredient in both human and anti-anxiety supplements for dogs.
Passionflower increases the levels of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) in the brain — a neurotransmitter that lowers brain activity and reduces anxiety. It’s effective for dogs that struggle with separation, fear, or overexcitement.
How much is safe:
You’ll usually find passionflower in calming formulas at 50–200 mg per chew or dose. General guidelines are:
- Small dogs: 25–75 mg
- Medium dogs: 75–150 mg
- Large dogs: 150–200 mg
Check product labels and avoid giving passionflower alone unless it's in a balanced supplement.
6. Ginger Root
Ginger is a root herb commonly used for digestive support but also offers calming benefits.
Ginger helps ease nausea, which is often triggered by anxiety (especially in travel or motion sickness). It also has natural anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic effects, which reduce physical tension and mental stress in dogs.
How much is safe:
- Small dogs: 50–100 mg
- Medium dogs: 100–200 mg
- Large dogs: 200–250 mg
You can give ginger as a part of a supplement or fresh (grated) mixed into food. Use caution in dogs with bleeding disorders or on blood thinners.
7. Valerian Root
Valerian is a strong herb known for its sedative effect. It calms the nervous system and promotes restful sleep.
Valerian root is one of the most effective natural ingredients for dogs with insomnia, severe anxiety, or fear-based behaviours. It can slow down overstimulated nerves and reduce nervous excitement.
How much is safe:
Standard safe dose is around:
- 10kg dog: 50–75 mg
- 25kg dog: 100–200 mg
- 40kg+ dog: up to 300 mg
Because of its potency, it’s best to give valerian in a vet-approved supplement, not raw or homemade form.
Inactive ingredients: Glycerol, Potassium Sorbate, brewer yeast, naturox, potato, pea protein
You might overlook the inactive ingredients, but they can impact how effective and safe a supplement is for your pup. Quality calming products should have:
1.Glycerol – A safe stabiliser for chewy supplements
2.Potassium Sorbate – A natural preservative
3.Brewer’s Yeast – Supports coat and skin health
4.Naturox – A natural antioxidant
5.Potato and Pea Protein – Plant-based binders and protein sources
Avoid artificial colours or flavourings, excess sugar, and unpronounceable chemicals. Your dog deserves clean nutrition, especially for their emotional wellbeing.
MIHIJO Calming & Anxiety Supplements for Dogs: Best Vet-Recommended
MIHIJO believes every dog deserves a stress-free, happy life. Our calming & anxiety supplements for dogs are vet-approved, made in New Zealand, and free from artificial additives. Whether your pet struggles with fireworks, travel, or being left home alone, MIHIJO’s blend of L-theanine, chamomile, magnesium, and passionflower help support calm behaviour naturally.
Our customers love that us dog anxiety supplements are chewable, tasty, and easy to give — no hiding in peanut butter required!
Read more and discover why ingredient sourcing is the key to choosing the best pet health supplements in our latest blog.
FAQs:
What are the best canine calming supplements I can give?
Look for vet-approved options with L-theanine, chamomile, and valerian root. These ingredients naturally calm nerves without making your dog drowsy.
Do stress and anxiety supplements for dog’s work?
Yes, when chosen carefully and given consistently, they can reduce anxiety and improve behaviour in most dogs.
How can I calm my pet's anxiety?
Use a combination of calming supplements, a stable routine, exercise, and a safe space to help your dog feel secure.
