Best Calming Dog Food for Anxious Pups
Dogs are known for being man’s best friend, but sometimes our furry companions can become anxious and stressed. This can be due to a variety of reasons, such as separation anxiety, loud noises, or changes in routine. One way to help calm your dog is through their diet, specifically by choosing the right calming dog food.
Calming dog food is designed to help reduce anxiety in dogs by incorporating ingredients that promote relaxation and reduce stress. These ingredients can vary but often include things like tryptophan, chamomile, and L-theanine. It’s important to note that calming dog food should not be used as a substitute for behavioral training or medication prescribed by a veterinarian.
When looking for the best calming dog food, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s essential to choose a food that is appropriate for your dog’s age, breed, and size. Second, take a close look at the ingredient list to ensure it contains high-quality, natural ingredients that are free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Finally, consider the flavor and texture of the food, as picky eaters may be less likely to eat a new food if they don’t like the taste or texture.
At our team, we understand the importance of finding the best calming dog food for your furry friend. That’s why we spent hours researching and testing various brands to identify the top options on the market. With our recommendations, you can feel confident that you’re choosing a high-quality, effective calming dog food that will help keep your dog relaxed and happy.
Best Calming Dog Food
We understand how important it is to provide the best nutrition for our furry friends, especially when it comes to their mental well-being. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various calming dog food options to bring you the best products on the market. Our list includes only the highest quality dog food that is specifically formulated to reduce stress and anxiety in dogs. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best calming dog food.
Purina Pro Plan Calm -amp; Balanced Adult Chicken -amp; Rice Calming Dog Formula
If you are looking for a complete and balanced dog food that supports calm behavior, then Purina Pro Plan Adult Dog Food Calm -amp; Balanced Chicken -amp; Rice Dog Calming Formula is worth considering.
Pros
- Includes Omega-3 fatty acids at optimized levels to promote calm dog behavior when fed daily for 12 weeks.
- Brain-supporting nutrients DHA, EPA, antioxidants, B Vitamins, and arginine boost cognitive health.
- Features high-quality protein and chicken as the #1 ingredient for a high protein dog food promoting strong muscles.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste.
- May not work for all dogs with anxiety or stress-related behaviors.
- Contains grains, which some dogs may be sensitive to.
We have been using Purina Pro Plan Calm -amp; Balanced Adult Chicken -amp; Rice Calming Dog Formula for a few weeks now, and we have noticed some positive changes in our dog’s behavior. The Omega-3 fatty acids have helped to promote calmness, and the brain-supporting nutrients have boosted cognitive health. We have also noticed an improvement in our dog’s skin and coat health.
The high-quality protein and chicken as the #1 ingredient have helped to promote strong muscles, and the live probiotics and highly digestible formula have provided digestive support for our dog. However, some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, and it may not work for all dogs with anxiety or stress-related behaviors.
Overall, we would recommend Purina Pro Plan Calm -amp; Balanced Adult Chicken -amp; Rice Calming Dog Formula to dog owners looking for a high-quality dog food that supports calm behavior and cognitive health.
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements Calming Care – Calming Dog Supplements – 30 Ct. Box
If you’re looking for a way to help your anxious dog cope with stressful situations, Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements Calming Care Canine is an excellent choice. This calming dog food supplement contains a proprietary blend of beneficial bacteria that has been shown to help dogs maintain calm behavior, reducing symptoms of separation anxiety, changes in routine, and loud noises.
Pros
- The number one veterinarian-recommended dog probiotic brand to support calm behavior, making it an excellent dog supplement.
- Helps dogs cope with external stressors like separation, unfamiliar visitors, novel sounds, or changes in routine and location.
- Promotes a positive emotional state and healthy immune support for dogs.
Cons
- May take up to six weeks for full effect.
- Safe use in pregnant animals or animals intended for breeding has not been proven.
- The product is expensive compared to other calming dog food supplements.
We have been using Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements Calming Care for our anxious dog for several months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his behavior. He used to bark excessively and pace around the house, but now he is much calmer and more relaxed. We add one packet of the powder supplement to his food every day, and it’s easy to administer.
The product contains Bifidobacterium longum BL999, which is a strain of beneficial bacteria that helps maintain a positive cardiac activity during stressful events. It also supports a reduced cortisol response, which helps dogs maintain a positive emotional state. The powder supplement is safe and effective, and we have not noticed any negative side effects in our dog.
Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements Calming Care Canine to anyone looking for a way to help their anxious dog. It’s an excellent dog supplement that promotes calm behavior and helps dogs cope with external stressors. While it may be expensive compared to other calming dog food supplements, we believe it’s worth the investment for the positive impact it has had on our dog’s behavior.
Purina Pro Plan Calm -amp; Balanced Adult Chicken -amp; Rice Formula Dry Dog Food – 5 lb. Bag Chicken -amp; Rice 5 Pound (Pack of 1)
If you’re looking for a complete and balanced dog food that supports calm behavior, Purina Pro Plan Adult Dog Food Calm -amp; Balanced Chicken -amp; Rice Dog Calming Formula is worth considering.
Pros
- Includes Omega-3 fatty acids at optimized levels helps promote calm dog behavior when fed daily for 12 weeks
- Brain-supporting nutrients DHA, EPA, antioxidants, B Vitamins and arginine boost cognitive health
- Features high-quality protein and chicken as the #1 ingredient for a high protein dog food promoting strong muscles
Cons
- May not be suitable for dogs with chicken allergies
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- More expensive than some other dog food brands
We’ve been using Purina Pro Plan Calm -amp; Balanced Adult Chicken -amp; Rice Formula Dry Dog Food for a few weeks now and have noticed some positive changes in our dog’s behavior. She seems to be less anxious and more relaxed, which is exactly what we were hoping for.
One thing we really like about this dog food is that it includes Omega-3 fatty acids at optimized levels to help promote calm behavior. We’ve noticed a difference in our dog’s behavior since switching to this food, and we’re happy to see that it’s working as promised.
Another thing we appreciate about this dog food is that it includes brain-supporting nutrients like DHA, EPA, antioxidants, B Vitamins, and arginine to boost cognitive health. We want our dog to be as healthy as possible, and we feel good knowing that this food is supporting her brain health.
Overall, we’re happy with our purchase of Purina Pro Plan Calm -amp; Balanced Adult Chicken -amp; Rice Formula Dry Dog Food. While it may be more expensive than some other dog food brands, we feel that the benefits it provides are worth the extra cost. If you’re looking for a dog food that can help promote calm behavior and support cognitive health, this is definitely a product worth considering.
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements Calming Care – Calming Dog Supplements – 30 Ct. Box
If you’re looking for a natural way to help your dog deal with anxiety and stress, Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements Calming Care Canine is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The proprietary use of a beneficial bacteria strain known as BL999 has been shown to help dogs maintain calm behavior.
- Calming dog food powder supplement supports dogs with anxious behaviors such as excessive vocalization, jumping, pacing, and spinning.
- Purina Calming Care for dogs helps dogs cope with external stressors like separation, unfamiliar visitors, novel sounds, or changes in routine and location.
Cons
- It may take up to six weeks to see the full effects of the supplement.
- Safe use in pregnant animals or animals intended for breeding has not been proven.
- The product is relatively expensive compared to other calming supplements on the market.
In our experience, Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements Calming Care Canine helped our dog maintain a calmer demeanor during stressful situations. The powder is easy to administer by adding it to your dog’s regular food and the individual packets make it convenient to use.
We noticed a reduction in our dog’s anxious behaviors such as excessive vocalization and pacing, and we also appreciated that the supplement helps dogs maintain positive cardiac activity during stressful events.
However, it’s important to note that it may take up to six weeks to see the full effects of the supplement. Additionally, safe use in pregnant animals or animals intended for breeding has not been proven.
Overall, we would recommend Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements Calming Care Canine to dog owners looking for a natural way to help their furry friend deal with anxiety and stress.
Zesty Paws Calming Chews for Dogs Composure -amp; Relaxation for Everyday Stress -amp; Separation Peanut Butter 90 Count
If you are looking for a supplement to help your dog stay calm and relaxed, Zesty Paws Calming Chews might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- America’s #1 Selling Dog Supplement Brand on Amazon*
- Contains clinically studied Suntheanine for relaxation and calmness
- Features Ashwagandha to promote relaxation and help your dog cope with normal external stresses
Cons
- May not work for all dogs
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- May take a few weeks to see results
We have been using Zesty Paws Calming Chews for a few months now and have noticed a positive change in our dog’s behavior. She used to get anxious during car rides and thunderstorms, but now she seems much calmer and relaxed. The chews are easy to administer and our dog loves the peanut butter flavor.
One of the things we like about Zesty Paws is that they are the #1 selling dog supplement brand on Amazon, which gives us confidence in their products. The chews also contain Suntheanine, a clinically studied form of L-Theanine that helps promote relaxation and calmness. Additionally, they feature Ashwagandha, an adaptogen that may help your dog cope with normal external stresses.
While the chews have worked well for our dog, we understand that they may not work for all dogs. Some dogs may not like the taste, and it may take a few weeks to see results. However, we recommend giving them a try if you are looking for a natural way to help your dog stay calm and relaxed.
Solid Gold Calming Chews for Dogs – Soothing Snacks for Stress -amp; Dog Anxiety Relief – Melatonin -amp; Valerian Root – Dog Treats for Separation Anxiety Relief -amp; Fireworks for All Breeds -amp; Sizes – 120 Ct Smoked Bacon 120 Count
We highly recommend the Solid Gold Calming Chews for Dogs, as they are a great option for pet owners looking for a natural way to help their furry friends relax and calm down.
Pros
- These chews are made with a proprietary blend of natural ingredients, including melatonin, chamomile, valerian root, L-theanine, ashwagandha, and L-tryptophan, which may help support dogs with everyday stress, nervous and hyperactive behavior, and separation anxiety.
- The NutrientBoost feature of these chews provides essential nutrients, plasma, amino acids, and protein to boost nutrient absorption and support the gut and immune system of your dog.
- The smoked bacon flavor of these chews is highly craveable, and most dogs love it.
Cons
- These chews may not work for all dogs, and some may require higher doses than others.
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of these chews, and may not eat them willingly.
- These chews may cause drowsiness in some dogs, so it’s important to monitor your pet’s behavior and adjust the dosage accordingly.
In our experience, these chews are a great option for pet owners looking for a natural way to help their dogs calm down and relax. The proprietary blend of natural ingredients, including melatonin, chamomile, valerian root, L-theanine, ashwagandha, and L-tryptophan, may help support dogs with everyday stress, nervous and hyperactive behavior, and separation anxiety. Additionally, the NutrientBoost feature of these chews provides essential nutrients, plasma, amino acids, and protein to boost nutrient absorption and support the gut and immune system of your dog.
The smoked bacon flavor of these chews is highly craveable, and most dogs love it. However, these chews may not work for all dogs, and some may require higher doses than others. Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of these chews, and may not eat them willingly. It’s important to monitor your pet’s behavior and adjust the dosage accordingly, as these chews may cause drowsiness in some dogs.
Overall, if you’re looking for a natural way to help your dog relax and calm down, we highly recommend giving the Solid Gold Calming Chews for Dogs a try.
Maxxipaws Maxxicalm Natural Non-Drowsy Calming Aid Supplement for Dogs
If you are looking for an all-natural and non-drowsy calming aid supplement for your furry friend, then Maxxipaws Maxxicalm is a great option.
Pros
- Premium all-natural ingredients that help fearful and anxious pets cope better in stressful situations
- Can help with separation anxiety, fear of storms and fireworks, Vet visits, big life changes, travel, sleep problems, fear of strangers, and other behavioral issues
- Comes with supporting canine behavior guide (eBook) that contains advice on common anxieties and behavioral issues that help you to work with your dog
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of the tablets
- It may take some time to see the results
- May not work for all dogs
We have used Maxxipaws Maxxicalm for our dog who has separation anxiety, and we have seen a noticeable improvement in her behavior. The all-natural ingredients give us peace of mind, knowing that we are not giving her anything harmful. The supporting canine behavior guide is also a great resource for us to work with our dog to address her anxiety.
The only downside we have experienced is that our dog is not a big fan of the taste of the tablets, but we have found ways to mask the taste in her food. Additionally, it may take some time to see the results, so it is important to be patient and consistent with the dosage.
Overall, we highly recommend Maxxipaws Maxxicalm as a natural and effective calming aid supplement for dogs.
Vetrica Calming Chews for Dogs
If you’re looking for a natural way to calm your dog down, then Vetrica Calming Chews for Dogs could be the perfect solution.
Pros
- These calming dog treats are made with natural ingredients, including hemp seed oil, organic chamomile extract, and valerian root.
- They are designed to alleviate stress in dogs, providing tranquility during travel, separation, fireworks, and amid loud, anxiety-inducing noises.
- The beef flavor of these treats is a hit with dogs, making them an enjoyable experience for your furry friend.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of these treats and may refuse to eat them.
- The calming effect of these treats may not be as strong as some other products on the market.
- The treats may not be effective for all dogs, and some may require a higher dosage.
In our experience, these calming chews are an excellent option for dogs who need help relaxing. They’re made with pure and natural ingredients, so you can feel good about giving them to your pet. We’ve found that they work well for travel anxiety and separation anxiety, and they’re also effective during thunderstorms and other loud noises.
The easy administration of these beef-flavored treats makes them a hassle-free option for both puppies and senior dogs. We recommend giving them a try if you’re looking for a natural way to calm your furry friend down.
Remember to always consult with a veterinarian before giving your dog any new supplements or medications.
Instinct Raw Boost Mixers Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food Topper
If you’re looking for a dog food topper that will help calm your furry friend, the Instinct Raw Boost Mixers Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food Topper is a great choice.
Pros
- The freeze-dried raw ingredients are packed with nutrients and flavor, and help to provide a calming effect for your dog.
- Made with cage-free turkey and other functional ingredients like valerian root, passionflower, and tryptophan, this topper supports a calm demeanor and helps to reduce stress.
- This topper is made without grain, corn, wheat, soy, white potato, artificial flavors, or preservatives, making it a healthy and natural choice for your pup.
Cons
- Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the freeze-dried raw morsels.
- This topper can be a bit pricey compared to other dog food toppers on the market.
- The packaging is not resealable, so you’ll need to transfer the topper to an airtight container to keep it fresh.
We’ve found that the Instinct Raw Boost Mixers Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food Topper is a great way to add some variety and nutrition to our dog’s diet. The freeze-dried raw morsels are easy to crumble over his kibble, and he loves the taste. We’ve noticed that he seems calmer and more relaxed after eating this topper, which is a big plus.
One thing to keep in mind is that this topper can be a bit pricey, especially if you have a large dog or plan to use it regularly. However, we think it’s worth the investment for the health benefits and peace of mind it provides.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the Instinct Raw Boost Mixers Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food Topper to other dog owners looking for a high-quality, calming topper for their furry friends.
JustFoodForDogs Calm
We highly recommend JustFoodForDogs Calm for anyone looking for a natural solution to help their furry friend stay calm during stressful situations.
Pros
- Reduces anxiety in times of stress such as thunderstorms, travel, and separation anxiety.
- All-natural ingredients that are safe for your pet.
- Produced in FDA-registered and inspected facilities with all products manufactured under GMP guidelines.
Cons
- May not work for all dogs.
- Some dogs may require a higher dosage.
- Expensive compared to other calming supplements.
We have been using JustFoodForDogs Calm for our dog during thunderstorms and car rides, and we have seen a noticeable difference in her anxiety levels. The combination of Valerian Root and Passion Flower helps to relax the canine nervous system, making stressful situations more manageable for your pet.
One of the things we love about JustFoodForDogs Calm is that it is made from 100% human-grade ingredients, so you can be confident that you are giving your pet the best possible care. Additionally, the supplement is allergen-free, making it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
While JustFoodForDogs Calm may not work for all dogs, we have found it to be effective for our furry friend. However, some dogs may require a higher dosage than recommended, so it is important to monitor your pet’s behavior and adjust the dosage as needed.
Overall, we highly recommend JustFoodForDogs Calm for anyone looking for a safe and natural way to help their furry friend stay calm during stressful situations.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best calming dog food, there are several important factors to consider. We recommend looking for the following features when selecting a product:
Ingredients
The ingredients in your dog’s food can have a big impact on their overall health and well-being. Look for products that use high-quality, natural ingredients, and avoid those that contain artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. Additionally, consider the specific ingredients used in the calming formula. Some common ingredients include chamomile, valerian root, and L-tryptophan.
Nutritional Value
It’s important to choose a calming dog food that provides your pet with all the necessary nutrients they need to thrive. Look for products that offer a balanced blend of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Be sure to check the product’s guaranteed analysis to ensure it meets your dog’s nutritional needs.
Flavor and Texture
Dogs can be picky eaters, so it’s important to choose a calming dog food that your pet will enjoy. Consider the flavor and texture of the product, as well as the size and shape of the kibble. Some dogs prefer softer, wetter food, while others prefer a crunchier texture.
Price
Calming dog food can be more expensive than regular dog food, so it’s important to consider the price when making your selection. Look for products that offer good value for money, and consider buying in bulk to save on costs.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best calming dog food for your furry friend. Remember to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated dog foods for reducing anxiety?
We have researched and found that some of the top-rated dog foods for reducing anxiety are Blue Buffalo Life Protection, Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin Calm, Purina Pro Plan Focus, and Nutro Ultra.
Which dog food formulas are recommended for small breeds with anxiety?
For small breeds with anxiety, we recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws, Royal Canin Mini, and Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed.
What are the most effective ingredients in dog food for calming dogs?
The most effective ingredients in dog food for calming dogs are tryptophan, chamomile, valerian root, passionflower, and L-theanine. These ingredients help to promote relaxation and reduce stress in dogs.
How does Science Diet’s formula address canine stress and anxiety?
Hill’s Science Diet has a formula that contains a blend of natural ingredients such as ginger, chamomile, and L-tryptophan, which helps to reduce stress and anxiety in dogs. This formula also contains antioxidants that help to support the immune system.
Is Royal Canin’s Calm dog food effective for anxiety-prone dogs?
Yes, Royal Canin’s Calm dog food is effective for anxiety-prone dogs. It contains a blend of natural ingredients such as tryptophan, vitamin B, and L-theanine that help to promote relaxation and reduce stress in dogs.
What are suitable dog food options for hyperactive dogs?
Suitable dog food options for hyperactive dogs are those that contain high-quality protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Some of the best options include Blue Buffalo Life Protection, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan Focus. These formulas are designed to provide the necessary nutrients to support a healthy and active lifestyle for hyperactive dogs.