Are Calming Chews Safe for Dogs?

What is in calming chews

Common ingredients include L-theanine, an amino acid from green tea; L-tryptophan, an amino acid involved in making serotonin; alpha-casozepine, a milk protein fragment; melatonin; and herbs such as chamomile, valerian or passionflower. Some chews add hemp or CBD, and a few add ginger or vitamins.

Each ingredient has a different evidence level. L-theanine and alpha-casozepine have some early studies suggesting a mild calming effect in dogs. Many herbal blends have little dog-specific research at all. Natural does not automatically mean safe, and the amount in each chew is not always what the label says.

How safe are calming chews?

For most healthy dogs, a calming chew given as labeled causes few problems. The most common side effects are mild stomach upset, loose stools or sleepiness. Allergies or sensitivities to an ingredient, including the flavorings, are possible, so watch for itching, vomiting or diarrhea when you start.

Because supplements are not reviewed by the FDA before sale, quality and labeling vary between brands. Some inactive ingredients may not be listed clearly, and human calming products in particular can contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Only use products made for dogs.

The overdose risk owners forget

Calming chews are made to taste like treats, so dogs will happily eat a whole tub if they find it. In one case reported by Pet Poison Helpline, a small dog ate a bottle of more than 160 tryptophan calming chews and needed overnight monitoring for high blood sodium and serotonin syndrome.

Store chews like medicine, up high and closed. If your dog eats a large number, call your vet or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 with the package to hand; a fee may apply.

When to check with your vet first

Ask your vet before using calming chews if your dog takes any prescription medicine, especially anxiety medicines, antidepressants, tramadol, blood pressure medicines or sedatives. Some calming ingredients affect serotonin or blood pressure and can interact.

Also check first for puppies, pregnant or nursing dogs, and dogs with liver or kidney disease, food allergies or a history of aggression. And if your dog's anxiety is severe, such as panic during storms or self-injury when left alone, a chew is unlikely to be enough, and your vet can help with a fuller plan.

Do calming treats work?

They may take the edge off mild, situational worry for some dogs, but they rarely solve real anxiety on their own. Vets generally suggest using them, if at all, alongside behavior training and changes to routine and environment, such as a quiet, cozy spot with a calming dog bed or other dog calming products.

Give any product a fair trial for a few weeks, note whether you see a real difference, and stop if not. Our guide on how to calm an anxious dog covers the training side.

This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.