Natural Solutions for Pet Anxiety: How to Calm Your Dog Using Holistic Methods

Many pet owners struggle with keeping their dogs calm and anxiety-free, particularly during changes in routine, such as back-to-school season. Dog anxiety can manifest in various ways, including destructive behaviour, excessive barking, or restlessness. Fortunately, there are natural and holistic remedies that can help soothe your dog’s anxiety without the need for pharmaceutical intervention.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore several natural solutions for managing your dog’s anxiety, including calming treats, aromatherapy, and herbal remedies. We’ll also feature products from The Pets Larder’s collection of natural dog supplements, making it easy to find the right solution for your furry friend.

Understanding Pet Anxiety: Causes and Symptoms

Pet anxiety can stem from various sources, such as:

• Separation anxiety: Dogs can become stressed when left alone for extended periods.
• Noise sensitivity: Loud sounds, like fireworks or thunderstorms, can trigger anxiety.
• Changes in routine: Shifts in the household schedule, such as back-to-school season, can make dogs feel unsettled.
• New environments or people: Moving to a new home or introducing new pets can lead to stress.

Recognising the signs of anxiety is crucial for addressing it early. Common symptoms include excessive barking, destructive behaviour, pacing, trembling, and loss of appetite.

1. Calming Treats: A Tasty Solution

Calming treats are a popular way to manage dog anxiety naturally. These treats are infused with ingredients that promote relaxation and reduce stress. Here are some key natural ingredients to look for in calming treats:

a. Chamomile

Chamomile has a long history of being used as a calming agent. It helps to relax muscles and soothe the nervous system, making it an effective natural remedy for anxiety.

b. Valerian Root

Valerian root is a well-known herbal remedy for anxiety and insomnia. Its calming properties make it a common ingredient in calming dog treats, helping to reduce stress and promote better sleep.

c. L-Theanine

L-Theanine is an amino acid found in green tea that promotes relaxation without causing drowsiness. It increases the production of calming neurotransmitters, creating a sense of calm in anxious dogs.

d. CBD (Cannabidiol)

CBD, derived from the hemp plant, is becoming a popular natural remedy for anxiety. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates stress and mood, helping to reduce anxiety in dogs during stressful events like thunderstorms or car rides.

Top Calming Treats at The Pets Larder

• Gizzls 100% Natural Calming Dog Treats: A delicious peanut butter biscuit packed with natural adaptogens and superfoods to help reduce stress responses in the mind and body.

• Forthglade Calming Soft Bites With Turkey, Camomile, Lavender & Lemon Balm: Perfect for when you need a quieter moment or before bed to help your dog settle, these soft, semi-moist treats are packed full of natural ingredients, free from grains as well as any artificial colours and preservatives.

2. Aromatherapy: The Power of Essential Oils

Aromatherapy can be a gentle and effective way to calm anxious dogs using essential oils. Certain oils have been shown to reduce stress and promote relaxation in both humans and pets.

a. Lavender Oil

Lavender oil is widely known for its calming properties. It helps to reduce anxiety and promotes relaxation, making it an excellent choice for stressed dogs.

b. Frankincense Oil

Frankincense oil is another powerful essential oil that promotes a sense of calm and reduces anxiety. It can also help improve sleep quality in dogs.

How to Use Essential Oils Safely

When using essential oils, it’s important to dilute them before applying them to your dog’s skin or fur. You can also use a diffuser to safely spread the calming scent throughout your home. Always avoid allowing your dog to ingest essential oils, as some can be toxic if consumed.

Top Aromatherapy Products at The Pets Larder

• Pet Remedy Calming Spray: This spray contains a blend of essential oils, including lavender and vetiver, to help calm your anxious dog.

• Dorwest Valerian Compound: This natural remedy uses valerian root and other calming herbs to reduce stress in dogs.

3. Herbal Remedies: Nature’s Stress Relievers

Herbal remedies are another effective option for managing pet anxiety. These natural supplements harness the power of plants to reduce stress and promote relaxation in dogs.

a. Passionflower

Passionflower is known for its sedative and calming properties, making it a great herbal remedy for anxiety.

b. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that helps the body adapt to stress. It’s commonly used to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation in both humans and pets.

c. Skullcap

Skullcap is a calming herb that can help reduce nervous tension and anxiety in dogs. It’s often used in combination with other calming herbs for a more potent effect.

Top Herbal Remedies at The Pets Larder

• Dorwest Skullcap & Valerian Tablets: These tablets combine the calming effects of skullcap and valerian to help reduce anxiety in dogs.

• CSJ Calm Down Herbal Supplement: This herbal supplement is designed to support your dog’s emotional balance and reduce stress.

4. Lifestyle Adjustments: Creating a Calm Environment

In addition to using calming treats, aromatherapy, and herbal remedies, making a few adjustments to your dog’s environment can significantly reduce anxiety levels.

a. Establish a Routine

Dogs thrive on routine, so maintaining consistent feeding times, walks, and play sessions can help your dog feel more secure.

b. Create a Safe Space

Designate a quiet area in your home where your dog can retreat when feeling anxious. This space should be comfortable and away from loud noises.

c. Provide Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Exercise and mental stimulation are crucial for reducing anxiety. Daily walks and interactive toys can help keep your dog engaged and focused.

d. Positive Reinforcement

Use positive reinforcement to help your dog associate stressful situations with positive experiences. For example, if your dog is anxious during thunderstorms, try offering calming treats or playing soothing music to create a calming environment.

Conclusion: Why Shop at The Pets Larder for Natural Pet Anxiety Solutions

At The Pets Larder, we believe that natural remedies are often the best choice for addressing pet anxiety. Our carefully curated selection of natural dog supplements and calming products ensures that you can find the right solution for your dog’s needs. Whether you’re looking for calming treats, herbal remedies, or aromatherapy products, we have everything you need to help your dog feel calm and secure.

By choosing The Pets Larder, you’re not only getting high-quality, natural products, but also supporting a business that prioritizes the health and well-being of your pets. Shop with us today and give your dog the gift of natural, holistic anxiety relief.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult your vet before introducing new supplements or treatments to your pet’s routine.