Updated December 10, 2025
Are you wondering how you can naturally help keep your canine companion calm and relaxed?
Dog anxiety, whether it's caused by separation, loud noises, car rides, or just general anxiousness, can be a challenging issue for both dog owners and their furry friends. Fortunately, there are natural remedies to help your pup cope with stress and find relaxation. In this blog post, we'll explore various methods and techniques to ease your dog's anxiety, keeping them happy, healthy, and relaxed as much as possible.
Understanding Dog Anxiety
Dog anxiety is a common issue that can manifest in various ways, such as destructive behavior, excessive barking or licking, or even physical symptoms like trembling. Anxieties can develop gradually over time or they may come on more suddenly, such as after a particularly frightening experience for your dog. Understanding the root of your dog's anxiety is the first step in finding the right natural remedy.
Separation Anxiety
One of the most prevalent forms of dog anxiety is separation anxiety, where dogs become anxious when left alone. Symptoms can range from whining and barking to house-soiling to destructive chewing.
Noise Phobias
Loud noises, such as thunderstorms or fireworks, can trigger severe anxiety in many dogs. Some pups might become fearful or even panic during these events. This may cause them to hide or even run away in an effort to escape.
General Anxiety or Situational Anxiety
Dogs can experience general anxiety, which might not be linked to a specific trigger. Some such anxiety may actually be linked to a genetic predisposition. This can make everyday life stressful for both your pet and you.
Natural Remedies for Dog Anxiety
Now, let's explore various natural remedies that can help calm dog anxiety naturally.
Essential Oils
Some essential oils like lavender and chamomile have a calming effect on dogs. Use a diffuser or mix a few drops with a carrier oil for massaging your dog. The following carrier oils are generally considered to be safe for dogs: Coconut Oil, Jojoba Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Olive Oil, and Grapeseed Oil. Not all oils are safe for dogs, so please verify before using any essential or carrier oil and use them in proper dilutions and applications.
CBD Oil
Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is gaining popularity for its potential to ease anxiety in dogs as well as relieve pain in conditions like hip dysplasia. It interacts with the nervous system to promote relaxation. Before giving your dog CBD oil, be sure to consult with your veterinarian to determine if it’s right for your dog’s individual needs.
Read more about how to help calm your dog with CBD.
Calming Music Therapy
Playing calming music or soft rock can have a soothing effect on dogs, especially during storms or noisy situations. It drowns out the loud noises and reduces stress. Try introducing it during non-stressful events first, pairing it with tasty treats or cuddling time to further enhance its potential benefits and to prevent your dog from associating it only with the scary thing.
Physical Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Regular physical exercise and mental stimulation with enrichment toys are vital for a dog's mental well-being. A tired dog is less likely to exhibit anxious behavior.
Check out this adorable, yet enriching snuffle mat for dogs in non-toxic, humanely raised wool.
Chewing and licking can also be quite self-soothing to dogs. These nylon-free dog chew bones by Better Bone are a great, safe, but fun option for all dogs. They come in three sizes and three densities that work well for puppies and seniors to agressive chewers.
Get some play time in with these non-toxic, organic cotton dog rope toys by Boba & Vespa. They are super fun for tug-of-war!
Natural Herbs
Herbs like valerian root and l-tryptophan are known as natural mood stabilizers. For proper dosages and guidance, consult your veterinarian.
Calming Supplements & Treats
Supplements for dogs like L-theanine and melatonin can be used to ease anxiety in dogs, particularly in stressful situations. We also really like this Stress & Anxiety Support by Woof Creek. It contains natural herbs Argentine Pork Liver, Functional Mushroom Blend (fruiting body), Noni Fruit, Alfalfa Grass, Kelp, and Chamomile to promote balance without drowsiness.
Another great way to provide calming relief for dogs can be via treats. Check out the Balance + Calm Treats by Botanical Bones. The active ingredients make them quite effective: Ashwagandha (85mg) Adaptogen for stress relief, Lemon Balm (100mg) to Calm the nervous system, and Hemp Seeds (75mg) to supports gut-brain health. Try them when training or as a distraction during stress inducing events.
Again, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before starting any new supplement for your dog.
Natural Solutions for Specific Anxiety Triggers
Car Rides
Motion sickness and anxiety in the car can be alleviated by gradually getting your dog used to the car, using pheromone sprays, or using a calming supplement. And always feed your dog well in advance of any car travel time. For a dog who easily gets car sick, a full belly will surely lead to vomiting. It's best to postpone the meal until after you arrive at your destination.
Storm Anxiety
If your dog has storm or weather-related anxiety, consider calming your dog during thunderstorms by creating a safe space, providing distractions like toys or treats, and using calming music. Special doggy comfort wrap garments can also provide relief for some dogs.
Separation Anxiety
Gradual desensitization, providing engaging toys, or considering a second pet can help dogs with separation anxiety. Consider working with a certified canine behaviorist to help devise a custom strategy plan for your dog.
Travel Anxiety
Training your dog for travel, using anti-anxiety clothing or wraps, and providing a comforting item like a plush, cuddly toy can help reduce travel-related anxiety.
Natural Mood Stabilizers and General Tips
Looking to soothe your pup's anxiety symptoms? Here are some natural ways to treat dog anxiety and help your dog cope.
Reduce Stress: If you have an anxious dog, establishing routines and maintaining a calm environment can help reduce stress and calm anxiety.
Provide Adequate Exercise: Regular walks, playtime, and mental stimulation help dissipate excess energy and be a natural mood stabilizer source for your pup.
Promote Relaxation: A comfortable dog bed, a sense of constant pressure (like a weighted blanket for humans), and calming supplements can reduce anxiety and provide much-needed stress relief for your furry friend.
This Dog Bed Duvet in Hemp is a great bedding choice for anxious dogs because, after stuffing it with your old clothes, towels, linens, or other materials, it will smell like you, making it reassuring and comfortable for your pet and good for our planet at the same time.
Natural Remedies for Anxious Dogs
Your dog's health and well-being should always be a top priority. If your dog suffers from anxiety, natural treatments can provide a safer and more holistic approach to helping them become a calm, content, and stress-free companion. Remember that every dog is unique, and it may take some trial and error to discover the solution that works for your pet.
