An anxious dog leads to an anxious owner. While it can be difficult to help your furry companion overcome their fears, there are some simple things you can do to give them a helping hand. Supplementing your pup’s diet with natural ingredients specifically formulated to help reduce anxiety is one of the best ways to start tackling those issues head-on.
Here’s a list of some common supplement ingredients that have been proven to help anxious dogs:
Chamomile – This herb has long been used as a natural sedative and can often be found in calming chews, tablets, or powders for dogs. It relaxes the nervous system and helps your pup to stay calmer during stressful situations.
L-Theanine – This amino acid helps to reduce stress in humans and dogs alike by encouraging the production of alpha waves which relaxes the mind. It’s found naturally in green tea but is also available in supplement form.
B-Complex Vitamins – B vitamins such as thiamine, riboflavin, pyridoxine, and niacin help to reduce stress and anxiety levels. These vitamins can also be found in many different types of supplements such as calming chews, powders, and liquids.
Valerian Root – This time, we come to a natural herb known for its sedative properties and often used to treat insomnia in both humans and animals. It helps to soothe the nervous system and can be found in various forms such as liquid extracts, chews, and powders.
Omega-3s – Found naturally in fish oil, these fatty acids are great for reducing inflammation which helps to reduce anxiety levels. Not only that, but Omega-3s have also been linked to improved brain function which can further help your pup stay calm.
L-Tryptophan – Finally, this amino acid reduces stress and anxiety levels while also aiding in the production of serotonin, a hormone that plays a role in stabilizing moods. It can be found naturally in turkey, eggs, and dairy but is also available as a supplement.
These are just a few of the most common supplement ingredients that can help anxious dogs. Always be sure to speak with your vet before beginning any new mineral supplements for dogs as some may not be appropriate for your pup depending on their size, breed, or existing health conditions. With the right combination of natural supplements and behavioural training, you can help reduce your dog’s anxiety levels and give them the best life possible.
Lastly, don’t forget to reward your pup for any improvements by giving them lots of love and extra treats! By doing this, you reinforce the positive behaviour that led to the decrease in anxiety and show your dog that they are being rewarded for their progress. Doing so will help your pup stay on track and continue to make progress in overcoming their fears.
Why do dogs get anxious? Anxiety can stem from fear, past traumatic experiences, loud noises, or changes in routine; all of which can be difficult for dogs to handle. As a pet parent, you need to recognize the signs early on and take proper steps to reduce their anxiety quickly!