Best Dog Calming Supplements for Anxiety (2026) – Top 10 Reviewed
If your dog struggles with thunderstorms, fireworks, separation anxiety, or general nervousness, a calming supplement may help take the edge off. These supplements typically contain natural ingredients like melatonin, hemp, L-theanine, and ashwagandha to support relaxation without sedation.
The best calming supplements use clinically studied ingredients at effective doses and come in palatable forms your dog will actually eat. Here are our top 10 picks for 2026.
| Product | Key Ingredients | Count | Form | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Melatonin for Dogs Sleep Aid Treats | Melatonin 6mg | 120 | Chews | Best Overall |
| Advanced Calming Chews with 7 Mushrooms | Mushrooms, Ashwagandha, Omega-3 | 90 | Chews | Best for Brain Support |
| Calming Chews with Hemp Oil (Duck) | Hemp Oil | 180 | Chews | Best Value |
| Vet Recommended Calming Chews | Melatonin, Hemp | 90 | Chews | Best Vet Recommended |
| GABA & Melatonin Fast-Acting Chews | GABA, Melatonin, Ashwagandha | 180 | Chews | Best Fast-Acting |
| Hemp Calming Chews with Melatonin | Hemp, Melatonin | 120 | Chews | Best Budget Option |
| Deley Naturals Calming Chews | Hemp | 90 | Chews | Best for Travel |
| Hemp Calming Chews (Chicken) | Valerian, L-Tryptophan, Hemp | 120 | Chews | Best Multi-Ingredient |
| VetriScience Composure Chews | Clinically Tested Formula | 120 | Chews | Best Clinically Tested |
| BARK&SPARK Hemp Calming Treats | Hemp Oil, Melatonin | 60 | Chews | Best for Aggressive Behavior |
1. Melatonin for Dogs Sleep Aid Treats – Best Overall
Why it stands out: This extra-strength formula delivers 6mg of melatonin per treat, making it one of the most potent sleep-supporting options on the market. It’s specifically designed for medium and large breed dogs who need help settling down at night.
The 6mg melatonin dosage provides meaningful sleep support for dogs 30 lbs and up. Made in the USA, these chews work well for dogs with anxiety-related sleep issues or those who struggle to wind down after stressful events. The 120-count bottle offers excellent value for daily use.
Pros:
- Extra-strength 6mg melatonin dosage
- Made in USA with quality ingredients
- 120-count provides extended supply
Cons:
- May be too strong for small dogs
Best for: Medium to large dogs with sleep difficulties or nighttime anxiety.
2. Advanced Calming Chews with 7 Mushrooms – Best for Brain Support
Why it stands out: This innovative formula combines adaptogenic mushrooms with ashwagandha and omega-3 fatty acids for comprehensive brain and composure support. It’s designed to address anxiety at a deeper level by supporting cognitive function.
The 7-mushroom blend includes functional varieties known for their calming and cognitive benefits. Added DHA and EPA omega-3s support brain health while ashwagandha helps regulate stress hormones. The salmon flavor appeals to most dogs, and the formula works for all breeds and sizes.
Pros:
- Unique mushroom blend for cognitive support
- Includes omega-3 DHA & EPA
- Salmon flavor is highly palatable
Cons:
- Premium price point
Best for: Dogs with chronic anxiety who could benefit from cognitive and adaptogenic support.
3. Calming Chews with Hemp Oil (Duck) – Best Value
Why it stands out: With 180 chews per bag and a duck flavor that dogs love, this hemp-based formula offers exceptional value for pet parents managing ongoing anxiety issues like thunderstorms, fireworks, and separation.
Hemp oil is the star ingredient here, providing natural calming support without sedation. The duck flavor is a nice change from the typical chicken or bacon options, making it appealing to picky eaters. At 180 chews, you’re getting a solid 3-6 month supply depending on your dog’s size.
Pros:
- 180-count offers excellent value
- Duck flavor appeals to picky eaters
- Hemp-based natural formula
Cons:
- Takes time to build up in system
Best for: Budget-conscious pet parents needing long-term anxiety support.
4. Vet Recommended Calming Chews – Best Vet Recommended
Why it stands out: This Made-in-USA formula carries a vet-recommended designation and combines melatonin with hemp for dual-action calming support. It’s formulated for behavior support during stressful situations.
The combination of melatonin and hemp provides both immediate relaxation and sustained calming effects. Designed with vet input, this extra-strength formula targets stress from separation, fireworks, travel, and other anxiety triggers. Works well for dogs of all sizes when dosed appropriately.
Pros:
- Vet recommended formula
- Dual-action melatonin + hemp
- Made in USA
Cons:
- 90-count runs out faster
Best for: Pet parents who prefer vet-backed products for situational anxiety.
5. GABA & Melatonin Fast-Acting Chews – Best Fast-Acting
Why it stands out: The GABA and melatonin combination is specifically formulated for fast-acting relief, making it ideal for predictable stressors like thunderstorms or vet visits when you need calming support quickly.
GABA works on the nervous system to promote relaxation quickly, while melatonin supports the body’s natural calming pathways. Ashwagandha provides additional adaptogenic support for long-lasting effects. The 180-count bag offers great value for dogs needing regular anxiety support.
Pros:
- Fast-acting GABA formula
- Long-lasting ashwagandha support
- 180 chews per bag
Cons:
- May cause drowsiness in sensitive dogs
Best for: Dogs needing quick relief from predictable anxiety triggers.
6. Hemp Calming Chews with Melatonin – Best Budget Option
Why it stands out: This affordable 120-count option combines hemp with melatonin for reliable anxiety relief without breaking the bank. Made in the USA with quality ingredients.
The hemp and melatonin combination addresses both nervous energy and sleep-related anxiety issues. These chews work well for separation anxiety, barking, thunderstorms, fireworks, and travel stress. The USA manufacturing ensures quality control at an accessible price point.
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Made in USA
- Effective hemp + melatonin combo
Cons:
- Basic formula without adaptogens
Best for: Pet parents on a budget who want reliable calming support.
7. Deley Naturals Calming Chews – Best for Travel
Why it stands out: Specifically marketed for travel, vet visits, and situational stress, this hemp-based formula helps dogs stay relaxed during car rides and new environments.
Deley Naturals focuses on hemp-based relaxation that doesn’t cause excessive drowsiness—important when you need your dog calm but alert during travel. The formula also addresses fireworks, thunderstorms, and restless behavior. Works well given 30-60 minutes before stressful events.
Pros:
- Designed specifically for travel anxiety
- Non-drowsy formula
- Addresses multiple anxiety triggers
Cons:
- Smaller count than some competitors
Best for: Dogs who get anxious during car rides, flights, or vet visits.
8. Hemp Calming Chews (Chicken) – Best Multi-Ingredient
Why it stands out: This comprehensive formula combines valerian root, L-tryptophan, and hemp oil for a multi-pathway approach to anxiety. The chicken flavor is highly palatable for picky dogs.
Valerian root has been used for centuries to promote relaxation, while L-tryptophan (the amino acid in turkey) supports serotonin production. Combined with hemp oil, this formula addresses anxiety from multiple angles. The 120-count at a reasonable price makes it a solid choice.
Pros:
- Multi-ingredient approach
- Popular chicken flavor
- Includes valerian and L-tryptophan
Cons:
- Some dogs may not respond to valerian
Best for: Dogs who haven’t responded well to single-ingredient calming supplements.
9. VetriScience Composure Chews – Best Clinically Tested
Why it stands out: VetriScience’s Composure formula has been clinically tested for efficacy, giving pet parents confidence that this supplement actually works. It’s a trusted name in veterinary supplements.
The clinically studied formula is designed to reduce stress and fear during thunderstorms, fireworks, and travel. VetriScience is a respected brand in the veterinary space, and the 120-count chicken-flavored chews offer good value. This is a go-to recommendation from many veterinarians.
Pros:
- Clinically tested formula
- Trusted veterinary brand
- 120-count good value
Cons:
- Premium brand pricing
Best for: Pet parents who want clinical evidence backing their dog’s supplements.
10. BARK&SPARK Hemp Calming Treats – Best for Aggressive Behavior
Why it stands out: Formulated to address aggressive behavior alongside general anxiety, this hemp and melatonin combination targets dogs with more intense stress responses including excessive barking.
BARK&SPARK designed these treats specifically for dogs whose anxiety manifests as aggression or intense barking. The hemp oil and melatonin work together to calm the nervous system. At 60 chews, it’s a good starter size to see if the formula works for your dog.
Pros:
- Targets aggression and barking
- Hemp + melatonin combination
- Good trial size
Cons:
- Smaller count (60 chews)
Best for: Dogs whose anxiety leads to aggressive behavior or excessive barking.
How to Choose the Right Calming Supplement for Your Dog
Key Ingredients to Look For
The most effective calming supplements contain ingredients like melatonin (supports natural sleep-wake cycles), hemp/CBD oil (promotes relaxation), L-theanine (amino acid that reduces stress), ashwagandha (adaptogen for stress regulation), valerian root (herbal relaxant), GABA (neurotransmitter that calms the nervous system), and chamomile (gentle relaxation support).
Size & Breed Considerations
Most calming supplements are dosed by weight. Small dogs under 25 lbs typically need half the standard dose, while large dogs over 75 lbs may need double. Some breeds like German Shepherds, Border Collies, and rescue dogs may be more prone to anxiety and benefit from daily supplementation.
Form Factor: Chews vs Tablets vs Liquid
Soft chews are the most popular format because dogs see them as treats. Tablets can be hidden in food but may be spit out by picky dogs. Liquids can be added to food but may affect taste. Choose based on what your dog will consistently accept.
What to Avoid
Skip products with artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Avoid supplements with vague “proprietary blends” that don’t disclose ingredient amounts. Be wary of products making medical claims about curing anxiety disorders—supplements support wellness but don’t treat conditions.
Signs Your Dog May Need a Calming Supplement
- Excessive panting or drooling when there’s no obvious cause like heat or exercise
- Destructive behavior when left alone, including chewing furniture or scratching doors
- Hiding or cowering during storms, fireworks, or when guests arrive
- Excessive barking or whining in response to normal household sounds
- Pacing or restlessness especially in the evening or during stressful events
- Trembling or shaking during car rides or vet visits
- Loss of appetite around stressful situations or changes in routine
If your dog shows severe anxiety symptoms or sudden behavior changes, consult your veterinarian to rule out underlying health issues.
Side Effects and Safety
Most calming supplements are well-tolerated, but some dogs may experience mild drowsiness, digestive upset, or changes in appetite when starting a new supplement. Introduce gradually by starting with half the recommended dose and working up over a week.
Consult your vet before giving calming supplements to pregnant dogs, puppies under 12 weeks, dogs on medications (especially sedatives or anti-anxiety drugs), or dogs with liver or kidney conditions. Some ingredients like valerian may interact with certain medications.
FAQs
How long before a stressful event should I give calming chews?
Most calming supplements work best when given 30-60 minutes before the anticipated stressor. For daily maintenance, give at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in your dog’s system.
Can I use calming supplements every day?
Yes, most calming supplements are safe for daily use and may work better with consistent use. Some ingredients like hemp and adaptogens build up in the system over time for enhanced effects.
Will calming supplements make my dog sleepy?
Supplements with melatonin may cause drowsiness, which is helpful for nighttime anxiety but may not be ideal for daytime use. Hemp-based and L-theanine formulas typically promote calm without sedation.
Can puppies take calming supplements?
Most manufacturers recommend waiting until puppies are at least 12 weeks old. Always check the specific product label and consult your vet for puppies, as their developing systems may be more sensitive.
Do calming supplements work for all types of anxiety?
Calming supplements work best for situational anxiety like storms, travel, or separation. Dogs with severe anxiety disorders or fear-based aggression may need behavioral training or veterinary intervention alongside supplements.
Can I give calming supplements with other medications?
Consult your veterinarian before combining calming supplements with any medications, especially sedatives, anti-anxiety drugs, or supplements that affect the liver. Some ingredients may interact with prescription medications.
Final Verdict
For most dogs with anxiety, we recommend the Melatonin for Dogs Sleep Aid Treats as the best overall option thanks to its potent formula and Made-in-USA quality. If your dog needs cognitive support alongside calming benefits, the Advanced Calming Chews with 7 Mushrooms offers a unique approach.
Budget-conscious pet parents will appreciate the Calming Chews with Hemp Oil at 180 count, while those wanting clinical backing should consider VetriScience Composure Chews. For fast-acting relief before storms or vet visits, the GABA & Melatonin Fast-Acting Chews deliver quick results.
