14 Best Calming Treats for Dogs in 2024

When my Cocker Spaniel was a puppy, some random kids on bicycles tossed fireworks at him while we were out on a walk. The kids quickly sped away, but left me with a dog who freaks out at fireworks and thunderstorms to this day. Fortunately, calming treats for dogs have made a big difference in how my dog reacts to loud sounds. 

If a dog becomes stressed, separated from their owner for too long, or is hyper in general, calming dog treats are a viable option to take the edge off without a prescription. 

In this article, we’ll provide answers to questions including ‘are calming chews safe for dogs,’ ‘do dog calming chews work,’ and what the top rated calming chews for dogs are and why.

We always recommend you talk to your dog’s veterinarian before administering any calming treats or new supplements. Keeping my dog calm without turning to chemicals or traditional medication is very important to me and millions of other dog moms and dads. 

Our Top Calming Treats for Dogs

All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the author. However, Vetstreet may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

• Best Calming Treats for DOgs with CBD: Honest Paws Calm CBD Bites
• Best Calming Chews for Hyper Dogs: ElleVet Calm and Comfort Chews
• Best Organic CBD Treat for Dog Anxiety: Evn CBD Dog Treats
• Best for Travel: NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid
• Best Crunchy CBD Dog Treat: Vive CBD Pet Treats
• Best Calming Hemp Treat for Dogs: PetHonesty Advanced Calming Hemp + Treats For Dogs
• Best Homeopathic Calming Formula: Bach Rescue Remedy
• Best Calming Dental Sticks for Dogs: Zesty Paws Hemp Elements Calming Orastix
• Best Calming Tablet for Dogs: Maxxidog Maxxicalm Calming Aid
• Best Calming Treats for Large Dogs: Heavenly Hounds Dog Stress and Anxiety Relief Treats
• Best Calming Treats for Small Dogs: BONIES Calming Formula Small Dog Treats
• Best Calming Chews for Dogs with Dental Benefit: PetHonesty Hemp Calming Fresh Sticks
• Best Everyday CBD-Free Calming Bites for Dogs: This Dog’s Life Bye Bye Pup Worries Calming Chews
• Best Calming Bar for Dogs: Kradle Calming Bliss Bar

Best Calming Treat for Dogs with CBD

Our pick: Honest Paws Calm CBD Bites

Get 15% off your order with code VETSTREET

Active Ingredients	Organic full-spectrum hemp oil 40mg (contains 5mg of naturally occurring CBD)
Other Ingredients	MCT oil, organic barley flour, organic coconut oil, organic oats, organic peanut butter, whole dried eggs
Dosage	Under 25 pounds = 1 whole bite/day;  25-50 pounds = 2 whole bites/day, Over 50 pounds = 3 whole bites/day
Treat Type	Crunchy bites

With 5 milligrams of organic, full-spectrum CBD per crunchy bite, these peanut butter-flavored calming treats from Honest Paws are formulated to naturally reduce a dog’s stress and anxiety. Whether your pup deals with separation anxiety when you leave the house, chronic stress, or noise phobias, these Calm CBD Bites can be used situationally or daily as a preventative measure. In fact, you may notice calming effects within as little as one hour after your dog eats them. An Honest Paws best seller, these treats are crunchier and bigger than their soft chews but can still be easily broken along the partition line for smaller dogs.

Highlights

• Contains U.S. grown full-spectrum hemp
• Formulated to help maintain calmness, manage behavioral issues, and provide cognitive support
• Third-party tested and NASC certified for quality
• No GMOs, soy, dairy, gluten, xylitol, or artificial flavors 
• Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients
• 30-day money back guarantee

Things to Consider

• Although these are human-grade treats, they are not for human consumption and the bag should be kept out of reach of pets and children
• An exam by a veterinarian is recommended before using this product
• Pet parents with larger dogs who require 3 bites per day will run through the bag pretty quickly (there are about 30 bites per bag)

Best Calming Chews For Hyper Dogs 

Our Pick: ElleVet Calm and Comfort Chews

Get 20% off with code vetstreet20

Active Ingredients	Hemp oil
Other Ingredients	Brewer’s yeast, glycerin, guar gum, molasses, organic sesame seed oil, pea protein digest, peanut butter, pork flavoring, potato starch, rice bran, rice starch, sorbic acid, sugar, sweet potato, tapioca starch, water
Dosage	5-11 pounds = ¼ chew, 12-20 pounds = ½ chew, 21-34 pounds = 1 chew, 35-60 pounds = 2 chews, 61-100 pounds = 3 chews, 100+ pounds = 4 (or more) chews
Treat Type	Soft chew

Sometimes dogs can be overly excitable, at which point channeling that energy into an activity, sport, walk, or play session is best. If a dog is overly excitable, work in conjunction with a veterinarian and/or positive reinforcement behaviorist in addition to adding in a calming chew for hyper dogs. 

Hyper dogs who are food motivated will find extra pleasure in these calming treats. In a clinical trial at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, over 80 percent of participating dogs showed significant or dramatic improvement while using products from ElleVet Sciences.

Highlights

• ElleVet products contain less than .3% THC, which will not cause a psychoactive effect.
• Ideal to have on hand for situational hyper behavior such as nail trims, grooming visits, meeting new people or being in a new environment. 
• Designed to provide situational support within 45 minutes.
• Cannabinoid concentration of 46 mg per chew.
• Completely organic product. 
• Veterinarian recommended.

Things To Consider

• These chews do contain CBD.
• 3 chews per pack, so they won’t last long.
• Contains peanut butter, rice bran, brewer’s yeast, sweet potato, tapioca starch, pea protein digest, and natural prebiotic.
• If dogs are over 100 pounds, Ellevet Sciences recommends giving more than four chews.

Best Organic CBD Treat for Dog Anxiety

Our pick: Evn CBD Dog Treats

Active Ingredients	4 mg of organic full-spectrum CBD per treat
Other Ingredients	Organic oat flour, organic molasses, organic oat bran, organic coconut oil
Dosage	Under 20 pounds = ½ to 1 treat, over 20 pounds = 1 to 2 treats
Treat Type	Crunchy dog treats, CBD oil for dogs also available

Evn is a CBD brand that prides itself on the purity and quality of its products, which include a wide range of CBD gummies, oils, capsules, powders, and topicals for people, as well as 100% organic CBD treats for dogs. Given that Evn’s CBD line is used by humans ranging from Olympic athletes to high-powered entrepreneurs, pet parents can feel good about giving these crunchy, calming, clean-ingredient CBD dog treats to their pups. In addition to using 100% organic ingredients, the treats contain only CBD derived from hemp that’s organically grown on family-run farms. And Evn adds an extra processing step to isolate and remove even trace elements of THC, so you can be sure your dog treats contain 0.0% of the psychoactive ingredient. That makes Evn CBD dog treats a healthy, great-tasting organic treat that offers a wide range of benefits, from alleviating your dog’s stress and anxiety to pain relief and general wellness.

Highlights

• Tasty, crunchy CBD treats are 100% organic, vegan, gluten-free, and made with only five non-GMO ingredients.
• Each treat contains 4 mg of broad-spectrum CBD derived from organically grown hemp sourced from family-run farms.
• Treats may help ease stress, anxiety, and pain in dogs and promote overall wellness.
• Contains 0.0% THC, which is even lower than the limits set by federal regulations.
• Third-party tested by ISO 17025 accredited labs to ensure purity and potency.
• Free ground shipping on US orders.
• 30-day satisfaction guarantee or your money back.

Things to Consider

• Package contains only 20 treats, which could get pricey if you have a larger dog. However, the brand offers a 20% discount if you subscribe for regular shipments.
• Additional discounts available on the Evn app.
• CBD Oil for Dogs also available.

Best Calming Dog Treats for Travel

Our Pick: NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid

Active Ingredients	Chamomile flower, passion flower, thiamine mononitrate, ginger, L-tryptophan, melatonin
Other Ingredients	Brewer’s dried yeast, canola oil, dried potato product, flaxseed, glycerin, lecithin, maltodextrin, mixed tocopherols, natural flavoring, rosemary extract, sorbic acid, tapioca starch, vegetable oil, water
Dosage	Up to 26 pounds = 1 chew, 27-50 pounds = 2 chews, 51-99 pounds = 4 chews, 100+ pounds = 6 chews
Treat Type	Soft chews. Also available in tablets.

NaturVet has been making veterinary-formulated dog supplements since 1994, and these calming treats are a great option if your dog gets anxious while traveling. While they contain calming ingredients like melatonin, thiamine, and L-tryptophan, they are also formulated with ginger to reduce motion sickness. If you plan to use them for traveling, just give your dog the recommended dose 30 minutes prior to departing. In addition to the high-quality ingredients, these calming aids for dogs are made in the USA in a cGMP facility and have the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) seal of approval. 

Highlights

• Contain ginger to help reduce anxiety while traveling
• Available in 60, 180, 240-count jars
• Soft, palatable chews that dogs enjoy
• Made in the USA
• NASC seal

Things to Consider

• If you have a large dog, you’ll need to administer 4-6 treats per dose

Best Calming Crunchy CBD Treat for Dogs

Our Pick: Vive CBD Pet Treats

Active Ingredients	5 mg CBD per treat
Other Ingredients	Peanut Butter (peanut, sugar, 2% or less cottonseed oil, soybean, rapeseed oil. dextrose, salt, molasses, monoglycerides), organic refined coconut oil, non-GMO organic gluten-free coconut flour, gluten-free honey, coconut flakes(coconut, sugar, water, sodium metabisulfite, propylene glycol), cinnamon, citric acid, propriety blend hemp extract in Hemp Seed Oil.
Dosage	Unavailable
Treat Type	Crunchy biscuit

Some dogs love a crunchy treat, one feature of Vive CBD’s peanut butter pet treats. These THC-free treats are made in a non-GMO facility, so pet parents have peace of mind. According to the company, dosing is contingent on your dog’s weight. Since many dogs can sense a pill buried in their food, Vive’s treats are much more palatable and easy to give to your pup.

These crunchy CBD treats for dogs are designed to take the edge off during anxious situations like moving, meeting new people, and staying calm during thunder or fireworks. If you’d prefer to never run out of these snacks with a purpose, consider going on the company’s subscription program.

Highlights

• THC-free treats so your dog will never get ‘high’
• Manufactured in a non-GMO facility. 
• Made with organic ingredients
• Most dogs enjoy the delectable peanut butter taste
• Made in the USA.
• Available in 30 mg or 100 mg CBD
• Peanut butter does not contain any unsafe sugars for dogs

Things to Consider

• Only available in one flavor
• Amount to give depends on your dog’s weight, so pay attention to calorie consumption

Best Calming Hemp Treats For Dogs

Our Pick: PetHonesty Advanced Calming Hemp + Treats For Dogs

Active Ingredients	Organic hemp oil and powder, organic chamomile, organic ginger root, valerian root, L-tryptophan, melatonin, suntheanine
Other Ingredients	Barley, carrot, coconut glycerin, duck, flaxseed, mixed tocopherols, natural bacon flavoring, oat flour, palm fruit oil, rosemary extract, sorbic acid, sunflower lecithin, sweet potato
Dosage	1-25 pounds = 1 chew, 26-75 pounds= 2 chews, 75+ pounds = 3 chews
Treat Type	Soft chew

Many pet parents turn to hemp treats for dogs for anxiety, cognitive dysfunction, pain, arthritis, and even seizures. Though results vary and each dog is different, hemp-based treats remain a viable option for some dogs. 

PetHonesty’s CalmingHemp+ claims to reduce stress in 30 to 45 minutes for situations such as car rides, vet visits, thunderstorms, and hyperactivity. No need to hide this in food or sneak it into a treat, as these maximum strength soft chews seem like treats to your dog. 

Highlights

• Tremendous amount of positive reviews. 
• Made in the USA without GMOs or wheat, corn, and preservatives.
• Ingredients include suntheanine, a clinically researched form of an amino acid in green tea leaves.
• Coupled with melatonin, organic chamomile, and hemp seed without any THC or CBD. 
• Based in carrot, sweet potato, and flaxseed for a taste most dogs love.

Things To Consider

• Some reviews say it works but the affect wears off rather quickly. 
• May become expensive depending on size of the dog (bigger dogs = more treats).
• Contains duck and barley. 
• Best when given on a full stomach.

Best Homeopathic Calming Formula for Dogs

Our Pick: Bach Rescue Remedy

Active Ingredients	5 x dilution of: Prunus cerasifera HPUS (Crab Apple), Clematis vitalba HPUS (Clematis), Impatiens glandulifera HPUS (Impatiens), Helianthemum nummularium HPUS (Rock Rose), Ornithogalum umbellatum HPUS (Star of Bethlehem)
Other Ingredients	80% glycerine, 20% water
Dosage	4 drops in mouth or added to dog’s food or water
Treat Type	Tincture

While this calming formula for dogs may not be your typical “treat,” Bach Rescue Remedy has been a trusted all-natural pet stress reducer for years. This tincture uses a blend of five different natural flower essences to alleviate anxiety symptoms in dogs, cats, and other pets. The formula was developed by a doctor and it’s plant-based and free of sugar, artificial flavors, gluten, and major allergens. Because it is natural, this tincture can be used in conjunction with other stress relief supplements and products, but make sure to discuss it with your veterinarian before administering it.

Highlights

• Doctor developed and all-natural
• Plant-based formula without additives
• Can be used for all breeds and all sizes
• Can be administered to cats, horses, birds, rabbits, and lizards, too

Things to Consider

• Some dogs may not like being given drops in their mouths
• Could be a little messy for travel

Best Calming Dental Sticks For Dogs

Our Pick: Zesty Paws Hemp Elements Calming Orastix

Active Ingredients	Suntheanine, melatonin, magnesium citrate, chamomile, valerian root, taurine, hemp seed
Other Ingredient	Chickpea, tapioca flour, coconut glycerin, hemp protein, brewer’s yeast, bone broth powder, lactic acid, kelp meal, sorbic acid, magnesium citrate, rosemary, peppermint oil, citric acid
Dosage	Up to 25 pounds = ½ stick, 26-50 pounds = 1 stick, 50+ pounds = 1-2 sticks
Treat Type	Dental stick

Some dogs love to sit and work on a treat, so Zesty Paws created a dental stick snack that helps to clean teeth as dogs gnaw on it. As a bonus, the sticks contain melatonin, magnesium citrate, chamomile, and valerian root to help calm nervous pups. 

To support periodontal health, Zesty Paws includes peppermint oil, rosemary extract, and kelp in the sticks to keep doggy breath at bay. Feed your dog a Zesty Paws stick before a thunderstorm, car ride, or vet visit and minimize stressful situations.

Highlights

• Zesty Paws is a member of NASC (National Animal Supplement Council).      
• Made in the USA from globally-sourced ingredients.
• Simple to dispense with a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee.
• Smaller dogs get one stick where larger pets over 75 pounds require up to 3 sticks. 
• Amounts can be split between morning and night. 

Things to Consider

• 12 to 13 sticks per bag can get expensive to dispense regularly, especially for larger dogs. 
• Contains bone broth powder but not clear on flavor. 
• Some dogs may not like the peppermint taste.
• As with all dental chews and sticks, dogs should be supervised when chewing on these.  

Best Calming Tablet For Dogs

Our Pick: Maxxidog Maxxicalm Calming Aid

Active Ingredients	Taurine, inositol, chamomile, passion flower, L-theanine, thiamine, magnesium
Other Ingredients	Dicalcium phosphate, isomalt, liver, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, natural flavor
Dosage	Under 25 pounds = .5-1 tablet, 25-50 pounds = 1-2 tablet(s), 50+ pounds = 2-4 tablets
Treat Type	Tablet supplement

Some pet parents (and dogs) prefer palatable tablets to avoid caloric treats. Maxxidog’s calming tablets for dogs are designed to work in tandem with training your dog to better behavior. Designed to promote a balanced dog without inducing drowsiness, taurine and inositol are two of the active ingredients. 

Highlights

• Use at the rate of one tablet per 25 pounds.
• Designed to relax dogs and not make them sleepy. 
• Contains 120 liver-flavored tablets.
• Many multiple-star reviews on Amazon. 
• All-natural ingredients. 

Things to Consider

• Dogs over 50 pounds require two to three tablets daily.
• Available in liver flavor only. 
• Contains taurine, an amino acid found naturally in fish and meat.
• Manufacturer recommends using it for a few weeks before a specific stressful event. 

Best Calming Treats for Large Dogs

Our Pick: Heavenly Hounds Dog Stress and Anxiety Relief Treats

Active Ingredients	Valerian root, passion flower, niacin, thiamin
Other Ingredients	Baking powder, brown sugar, egg yolk, eggs, ginger, gluten-free flour, invert syrup, palm oil, peanut butter, peanuts, water
Dosage	Under 10 pounds = ¼ square, 10-20 pounds = ½ square, 20+ pounds = 1 square
Treat Type	Soft, chewable square

Large dogs often need a larger serving of calming treats to experience the benefits. And that can get frustrating for pet parents who have to give their dogs multiple chews or treats per day. But these squares from Heavenly Hounds are a great size for dogs over 20 pounds, who only need to be given one full square to reduce anxiety. These tasty, peanut-butter-flavored squares contain ingredients like valerian root, niacin, and thiamin to help calm down dogs. They are made without hemp and manufactured in the USA.

Highlights

• One square is enough for larger dogs.
• Made in the USA.
• Individually wrapped for convenience.
• Contain active, natural ingredients like valerian root, niacin, and thiamin.
• Tasty, peanut-butter flavor.

Things to Consider

• These can get really pricey if using on a daily basis. We recommend them for once-in-a-while calming benefits. 
• Only available in peanut-butter flavor.
• If giving these to smaller dogs, the squares need to be broken up for correct dosing.

Best Calming Treats For Small Dogs 

Our Pick: BONIES Calming Formula Small Dog Treats

Active Ingredients	Chamomile, lavender
Other Ingredients	Brown rice powder, rice powder, vegetable glycerin, water, tapioca starch, pea powder, natural chicken flavor, carrageenan, calcium carbonate, brewers dried yeast, lecithin, parsley powder, citric acid, peppermint oil, mixed tocopherols
Dosage	Recommended for dogs 5-25 pounds
Treat Type	Chew bone

BONIES are all-natural, low calorie dog treats that are infused with brown rice, lavender, and chamomile. Designed with small dogs in mind, they are recommended for those weighing 15 to 25 pounds. In addition to helping ease nervousness and anxiety, the chew helps scrape off tartar to promote good oral hygiene in a dog’s mouth between brushings.

Highlights

• Made in the USA.
• Natural chicken flavor that dogs love.
• 66 calories per treat.
• Targeted at small dogs who are nervous, anxious, and have anxiety.
• Feed one bone daily as a healthy treat.

Things to Consider

• Supervision of dogs while eating any treat is advised. 
• Only available in one flavor.
• Some say the texture seems rubbery, but it is designed as a chew.

Best Calming Chews for Dogs with Dental Benefit

Our Pick: PetHonesty Dental Health Fresh Sticks

These 2-in-1 calming chews for dogs help promote calmness along with oral health benefits. Each fresh stick contains hemp oil, chamomile, valerian root, and melatonin. Proudly boasting the NASC quality seal, per parents who prefer a canine calming chew that also supports gum health should consider this product. Each chew is manufactured in the United States in a a GMP certified facility that is FDA registered. The yummy pumpkin/peanut butter flavor appeals to most dogs.

Active Ingredients	Hemp oil, chamomile, melatonin
Other Ingredients	Passional Flower, Cinnamon, Turmeric, Melatonin, Brown Rice Flour, Apple Cider Vinegar, Chickpeas, Coconut Glycerin, Natural Peanut Flavor, Pea Fiber, Peanut Flour, Pumpkin, Sea Salt, Tapioca Flour.
Dosage	Recommend 1/2 stick per day for dogs 1-25 lbs. 1 stick per day for dogs 26 lbs+. Give sticks daily – break in half for dogs 25 lbs and under.
Treat Type	Chew bone

Highlights

• Targets anxiety and gum health in one handy product.
• Ideal for all dogs over one year of age.
• PetHonesty reports most pet parents see an improvement within 30 days of consistent and correct usage.
• Formulated without chemical preservatives.
• Ridges in each chew are designed to ‘brush off’ plaque and tartar.

Things to Consider

• PetHonesty recommends starting with half the suggested amount, and gradually increasing to the suggested daily amount.
• Provide one stick daily per 25 pounds of weight.
• Best when consumed on a full stomach.

Best Everyday CBD-Free Calming Bites for Dogs

Our Pick: This Dog’s Life Bye Bye Pup Worries Calming Chews

Active Ingredients	Lemon balm, thiamine, L-theanine, L-tryptophan
Other Ingredients	Arabic gum, brewers yeast, citrus pectin, glycerin, hydrolyzed vegetable flavor, mixed tocopherols, oat flour, propionic acid, safflower oil, sunflower lecithin, water
Dosage	Under 44 pounds = .5 chew, 45-66 pounds = 1 chew, 66+ pounds = 2 chews
Treat Type	Soft chew

Some dogs get stressed out by specific triggers, like fireworks, thunderstorms, or trips to the vet. Others experience low-key nervousness or anxiety every day. Bye Bye Pup Worries from This Dog’s Life eases all kinds of stress, from persistent to occasional, slight to severe. And because these calming bites for dogs are made with all-natural calming ingredients and no CBD, you can use them as often as you like to help settle and soothe your dog.

Bye Bye Pup Worries uses powerful natural ingredients like lemon balm, green tea, amino acids, and vitamins to boost mood and alertness, support relaxation, and reduce overexcitement. Best of all, you can treat your dog to these calming chews as needed or every day. In times of extreme stress, you can even double or triple the recommended dose. Bye Bye Pup Worries is completely CBD-free and safe for long-term use, so that means less stress and worry for pet parents, too!

Highlights

• Made with natural, high-quality ingredients, including lemon balm for calmness and alertness, thiamine (known as the “anti-stress” vitamin), and serotonin-bosting, aggression-reducing L-Tryptophan.
• Chewable treat helps with hyperactivity or destructive behavior.
• Free of corn, artificial ingredients, and wheat that may cause stomach upset.
• Vet-formulated and proudly made in the USA. 
• For dogs under 44 lbs, daily dose is half a chew, a full chew for dogs 45-66 lbs, and two chews for dogs over 66 lbs.
• Safe to double or triple the dose in times of increased stress and anxiety.
• Fast-acting formula typically produces results within 20-30 minutes, though this can vary.
• Save 10 percent off with a subscription and you’ll never have to worry about running out.

Things To Consider

• Has not been proven safe for pregnant animals or animals intended for breeding. 
• Tub contains approximately 80 chews, so it might not last as long if you increase dosage or have a large dog.

Best Calming Bar for Dogs

Our Pick: Kradle Calming Bliss Bar

Active Ingredients	Proprietary BotaniTek Blend (SAMe (S-Adenosyl methionine), GABA (gamma-Aminobutyric acid), Shoden Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root extract, L-theanine, Passionflower extract (aerial parts), L-Tryptophan)
Other Ingredients	Bacon, Baking Powder, Brown Rice Syrup, Brown Sugar, Egg Whites, Ginger, Gluten Free Flour (Brown Rice Flour, White Rice Flour, Millet Flour, Sorghum Flour, Xanthan Gum) Mixed Tocopherols (To Maintain Freshness), Peanuts (Roasted Unsalted), Peanut Butter (Sugar Free)
Dosage	5-25 pounds = 1/2 bar, 26-50 pounds = 2/3 bar, 51+ pounds = 1 bar
Treat Type	Soft chew bar

Imagine being able to give your dog a tasty snack bar infused with a plant-derived formula of natural ingredients. It’s a win-win for the dog and you. Kradle’s soft bake bars are infused with ashwagandha, passionflower, and more in their very own BotaniTek™ plant-derived innovation. The convenient nature of each breakable bar makes them ideal for travel. For dogs who just aren’t fond of oils or tinctures, Kradle’s soft, chewy bars provide the ideal solution.

Each bar breaks easily into three pieces so you can decide how much or how little to serve your dog. Smaller dogs would get 1/3 of the bar, while larger dogs over 51 pounds receive the entire bar. Made with real peanut butter and bacon bits, dogs can’t resist the chewy texture and mouthwatering flavor in each bite. Results vary by dog, but most dogs react within 30 to 60 minutes.

Of note, Kradle Calming Chews are also available for those who prefer a soft chew supplement for dogs. They are chicken flavored and made for dogs of all sizes.

Highlights

• Made with a proprietary blend of human-grade ingredients to calm anxious dogs
• Can easily be broken into smaller pieces
• Contains no melatonin which generally makes dogs drowsy
• Manufacturer instructs they are safe for daily use
• Bacon bits and peanut butter flavor that most dogs drool for
• Made in the USA
• Contains no artificial flavors or colors
• NASC certified

Things to Consider

• A bit on the pricey side
• Contains no CBD
• Manufacturer indicates safe for dogs of all ages, but always check with your veterinarian first.

How We Ranked Our Picks

We narrowed our list down to treats that we’ve personally tried, received positive reviews, are third-party tested, veterinary recommended, and have a good overall reputation. 

We scoured through the feedback from pet parent reviews and looked at cost, availability, and ease of administration. 

Best Calming Treats For Dogs 

Calming treats for dogs are not medicinal but they are categorized as nutraceuticals, much like nutritional supplements consumed by their human counterparts. 

We can’t make specific claims but we have gathered together what we consider to be calming treats worth considering for your dog in times of fear, distress, or anxiousness. 

Calming Dog Treats Buying Guide

Even the most chill and laid-back dogs may get a bit tense now and then. Perhaps a dog doesn’t like road trips, car travel, nail clippings, or veterinary visits. Some dogs freak out and get nervous if their parents are moving to a new home, a new baby is in the family, or they are left alone for a long period of time. 

Positive reinforcements can help with some canine behaviors, but calming treats are designed to calm a dog and help them stay calm. With some preparation, dogs can feel safe and pet parents will have peace of mind. 

Like all products for dogs, not all calming treats are created equal. Fears, phobias, and anxiety can cause stress for dogs and their owners, so here’s what to look for when considering a calming treat for your pooch. 

Look for Testing or Veterinary Formulation

Forego the claims and promises on a label or social media ad and look for trusted ingredients that are veterinary formulated and third-party tested. Ingredients commonly used in calming treats for dogs include melatonin, chamomile, CBD, and L-tryptophan (the ingredient that makes us sleepy after eating turkey).

Determine Your Dog’s Type of Anxiety

Another key thing when shopping for calming treats is to determine what type of anxiety your dog has and base your search on those results. If your dog displays anxiety when alone, she could be suffering from separation anxiety. If your dog cowers, shakes, or hides from loud noises, fear-related anxiety could be to blame. Does your dog have any other symptoms that accompany anxiety? Illness or disease can also cause anxiety in dogs.  

Calming treats aren’t a cure all, and it’s best to get to the source of the anxiety or fear before giving your dog a treat to chill out. Alternatively, calming meds for dogs may be an option for dogs where nothing else is working. Your veterinarian can discuss prescription medications with you.

Find The Right Delivery System

Calming products for dogs are available in many forms such as sprays, tinctures, tablets, chews, pills, and even plug-in diffusers that release calming canine pheromones. Before administering anything to your pup, know whether she is amenable to swallowing a pill or if a chew is a better option. Fortunately, we live in a day and age where calming treats for dogs are plentiful. 

Dog Calming Treats FAQs

Are calming treats safe for dogs?

Yes, in general, calming treats are safe for dogs. Most are made with natural ingredients such as melatonin, chamomile, valerian root, L-tryptophan, and hemp to promote calming and stress relief.

That being said, all dogs react differently to active ingredients in calming treats. So, it’s important to talk to your veterinarian before offering new treats and to monitor your dog for any side effects or reactions. Calming treats may produce a drowsy or sedative effect.

Make sure to look for calming dog treats that are veterinarian formulated or recommended, that undergo testing to verify ingredients and potency labels, and that have transparent and high-quality manufacturing processes.  

Are hemp calming treats safe for dogs?

Yes, hemp calming treats—made with or without CBD—are safe for dogs. Hemp dog treats made with cannabidiol (CBD), contain less than .03 percent THC and will not get your pet high. While most hemp dog treats are safe for dogs, make sure to check the ingredient label and discuss the treats with your veterinarian to make sure they are a good fit for your individual pet. 

Can I use calming dog treats for nail clipping?

The best calming treats for dogs can also help if your dog isn’t fond of nail clipping. It’s best to use calming dog treats in conjunction with positive reinforcement, including praise and working in short sessions. You may try working on one nail at a time to help condition your dog to the process. Yes calming dog treats for nail clipping is an op

Can I give my dog calming treats every day?

Always talk to your veterinarian before starting any new supplements. Overdosing can lead to problems, including gastrointestinal distress or worse. In most cases and following manufacturer’s guidelines, you can use calming treats on a daily basis or as needed under veterinarian orders.

Are calming chews safe for puppies?

Before giving a calming treat to your puppy, it’s a good idea to check the dosing instructions to ensure the treat is safe for young dogs. Many calming treats are formulated for all life stages, but some are not recommended for puppies. Follow the manufacturer directions and reach out to your veterinarian if you have any questions about giving your puppy calming treats. 

Do calming dog treats work?

Calming treats do provide a reduction in stress and anxiety for some dogs. However, all dogs are different, and there is no guarantee that calming treats will work for an individual dog. You may need to try different types of calming treats with different ingredients to find a formulation that works for your dog.