Does your furry friend pace, pant, or hide when a thunderstorm rolls in? You’re not alone. Many dogs suffer from anxiety, and it can be tough to watch. It’s heartbreaking to see them stressed and scared. But did you know that what your dog eats can actually play a role in managing their anxiety?
Choosing the right dog food for an anxious dog can feel overwhelming. You might be confused by all the different ingredients and promises. You might be worried about making things worse. There are so many brands, and it’s difficult to know which ones are truly helpful. That’s where we come in! We’ll help you navigate the world of dog food and anxiety.
In this post, we’ll explore the connection between food and anxiety in dogs. You’ll learn about important ingredients to look for, and which ones to avoid. You’ll also discover some of the best dog food options designed to help calm your nervous pup. Get ready to learn how to make mealtime a more peaceful experience for your best friend. Let’s dive in and find the best food to help your dog feel more relaxed!
Our Top 5 Dog Food For Anxious Dogs Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Dog Food For Anxious Dogs Detailed Reviews
1. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements Calming Care – Calming Dog Supplements – 30 ct. Box
Rating: 8.9/10
Does your dog get stressed easily? Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements Calming Care is here to help! This calming supplement is designed for dogs who get anxious. It helps them cope with stressful situations. This product is a simple way to support your dog’s well-being. It comes in a convenient 30-count box.
What We Like:
- It is the number one vet-recommended dog probiotic!
- The supplement helps with many anxious behaviors. These include barking too much, jumping, and pacing.
- It helps dogs deal with things like new people or sounds.
- It helps dogs stay calm during stressful events.
- It supports a good mood and a strong immune system.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product’s effectiveness may vary depending on the dog.
- The price could be a concern for some pet owners.
Overall, Purina Calming Care is a good choice for anxious dogs. It can help your dog feel more relaxed and happy. This product is a trusted supplement that many vets suggest.
2. GOODGROWLIES Advanced Calming Chews for Dogs – Hemp Treat + Melatonin + Valerian – Relaxing Bites – Calming Care – Anti-Anxiety & Stress Relief – Made in USA – Calm
Rating: 8.5/10
GOODGROWLIES Advanced Calming Chews offer a natural way to help your dog relax. These chews use hemp, melatonin, and valerian root. They are designed to reduce stress and anxiety. These treats are made in the USA and are a good alternative to pills. They can help with storms, fireworks, or everyday stress.
What We Like:
- These calming chews use natural ingredients.
- They can help dogs with anxiety from storms and fireworks.
- The chews are easy to give to your dog.
- They are made in the USA.
- These chews can help reduce stress for all dog breeds.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some dogs may not like the taste.
- Results may vary from dog to dog.
In conclusion, GOODGROWLIES calming chews are a good choice for anxious dogs. They offer a natural way to help your dog feel calmer and more relaxed.
3. HIPPIH Dog Puzzle Toy 2 Pack
Rating: 8.8/10
The HIPPIH Dog Puzzle Toy 2 Pack offers fun and mental stimulation for your furry friend. This set includes two durable rubber balls, designed for interactive play and treat dispensing. The blue ball is for chewing and teeth cleaning, while the green ball can hold food to make your dog work for their meal. These toys are perfect for keeping your dog entertained and engaged while also helping to improve their intelligence.
What We Like:
- Durable rubber material is good for chewing and teeth.
- The blue ball helps clean teeth.
- The green ball dispenses treats, making mealtime fun.
- It helps with dog boredom and destructive behavior.
- It helps with IQ training.
- Good for medium and large dogs.
What Could Be Improved:
- Not suitable for small dogs.
- Size of food may need to be considered.
This HIPPIH Dog Puzzle Toy 2 Pack is a great way to keep your dog happy and healthy. It provides fun, mental stimulation, and helps strengthen the bond between you and your pet.
4. Zesty Paws Calming Chews for Dogs Composure & Relaxation for Everyday Stress & Separation Peanut Butter 90 Count
Rating: 9.2/10
Is your dog feeling stressed or anxious? Zesty Paws Calming Chews can help! These tasty, peanut butter flavored chews are designed to help your dog relax. They are perfect for everyday stresses, like thunderstorms or car rides. These chews are packed with ingredients to keep your furry friend calm and happy.
What We Like:
- Calming support for your pup! The chews help dogs with normal stress and nervousness.
- They include Suntheanine! This ingredient promotes relaxation.
- It has Ashwagandha! This helps dogs cope with stress.
- Good for many situations. These chews can help during storms, car rides, and fireworks.
- Amazing ingredients! The chews have Valerian Root, Organic Hemp Seed Powder, and more.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some dogs may not like the peanut butter flavor.
- The price might be a little high for some owners.
Zesty Paws Calming Chews are a good choice for calming your dog. They are a tasty and easy way to help your dog feel relaxed and at ease.
5. Lick Mat for Dogs – Slow Feeder Licking Mat with Suction Cups for Peanut Butter
Rating: 8.6/10
Is your furry friend eating too fast? The Lick Mat for Dogs is here to help! This 2-pack of slow-feeding mats uses suction cups to stick to any smooth surface. You can spread peanut butter, yogurt, or other treats on the textured surface. This helps slow down eating and keeps your dog entertained. It is designed to help with anxiety and boredom. This lick mat is a great way to make mealtime more fun and healthy for your pet!
What We Like:
- Slows down eating to help with digestion.
- Helps reduce anxiety and boredom, keeping your pet calm.
- Sticks to smooth surfaces like tile or glass.
- Made from safe, food-grade silicone.
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe.
- Comes with a satisfaction guarantee.
What Could Be Improved:
- The scraper is small and could be a choking hazard.
The Lick Mat for Dogs is a great tool to improve your dog’s eating habits and reduce anxiety. This is a simple and effective product for all dog owners!
Dog Food for Anxious Dogs: A Guide to Calm Cuisine
Is your furry friend feeling stressed? Does your dog pace, whine, or tremble when they’re anxious? You can help! One way is by changing their food. Special dog food formulas can soothe your dog’s nerves. This guide will help you find the best food for your anxious dog.
Key Features to Look For
Choosing the right food is important. Here are some things to look for:
- L-Theanine: This amino acid helps dogs relax. It can lower anxiety.
- Tryptophan: This is another amino acid. Your dog’s body uses it to make serotonin. Serotonin is a “happy” chemical.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These are good for the brain. They can help reduce anxiety and boost mood. Look for ingredients like fish oil or flaxseed.
- Probiotics: These are good bacteria. They help with digestion. A healthy gut can reduce stress.
- Limited Ingredients: Some dogs are sensitive to certain ingredients. Food with fewer ingredients is easier to digest. It can also reduce allergies.
Important Materials
What is the food made of? Here are some important things to consider:
- Real Meat: Look for chicken, turkey, or fish as the first ingredient. This means the food has a good source of protein.
- Whole Grains: Brown rice, oats, and barley are healthy options. They provide energy.
- Avoid Fillers: Some foods use fillers like corn or soy. These don’t offer much nutrition. They can also cause problems for some dogs.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Make sure the food has added vitamins and minerals. These help your dog stay healthy.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all dog food is the same. Here’s how to tell the difference:
- High Quality Ingredients: Better ingredients make better food. Look for real meat, fruits, and vegetables.
- Proper Manufacturing: The way the food is made matters. Look for brands with good reviews. They should follow strict safety standards.
- Avoid Artificial Additives: Artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives are not good. They may cause allergies or other problems.
- Brand Reputation: Do some research. Read reviews from other dog owners. Choose a trusted brand.
User Experience and Use Cases
How can this food help your dog? Here are some examples:
- Separation Anxiety: If your dog gets anxious when you leave, this food can help. It can make them feel calmer when you are gone.
- Loud Noises: Fireworks or thunderstorms can scare dogs. The food can help them stay relaxed during these events.
- Travel Stress: Traveling can be stressful for dogs. The food can help them cope with the changes.
- Veterinarian Visits: Many dogs get nervous at the vet. Calming food can make these visits easier.
Make sure to talk to your vet before changing your dog’s food. They can give you the best advice for your dog’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What causes dog anxiety?
A: Many things can cause dog anxiety. These include loud noises, changes in routine, separation, and new environments.
Q: How quickly will the food work?
A: It takes time for the food to work. You might see results in a few weeks. Be patient!
Q: Can this food replace medication?
A: No, it cannot. This food can help. But it is not a replacement for medication prescribed by your vet.
Q: Is this food good for all dogs?
A: It is good for many dogs. But every dog is different. Talk to your vet to make sure it’s right for your dog.
Q: What if my dog doesn’t like the food?
A: Try mixing it with their old food at first. Gradually increase the amount of the new food. If they still don’t like it, try a different brand.
Q: Can I give my dog supplements with this food?
A: Yes, you can. Talk to your vet about what supplements are safe for your dog.
Q: Will this food make my dog sleepy?
A: The food is not meant to make your dog sleepy. It is supposed to help them relax. Some dogs may feel calmer, which might make them rest more.
Q: How much should I feed my dog?
A: Follow the feeding guidelines on the food package. Adjust the amount based on your dog’s weight and activity level.
Q: Where can I buy this food?
A: You can buy this food at pet stores. You can also buy it online.
Q: What if my dog’s anxiety doesn’t improve?
A: Talk to your vet. They can help you find other solutions. They can also check if there’s another reason for your dog’s anxiety.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Mette Morgan—a lifelong pet enthusiast and the heart behind PetNobs.com.. My journey with animals began at an early age, and over the years, I’ve gathered invaluable experiences and insights on everything from everyday pet care to the unique quirks each animal brings to our lives. Here at PetNobs, I share my genuine passion, practical tips, and personal stories to help you create a loving, well-informed environment for your furry, feathered, or scaled friends. Welcome to my little corner of the pet world—it’s a joy to have you here!