The Best Dog Calming Treats That Actually Work

All dog owners want nothing more than a happy, relaxed, and stress-free pup. But sometimes, no matter what you do, it seems like they just can't calm down.

I’ve raised over a dozen dogs over the years, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that not every bark means the same thing. Some dogs bark because they’re excited. Some hate being alone. While some can't settle down at night. 

When Pochui was a pup, he used to bark at every little sound. Neutering helped, but not completely. He was still always on guard mode. Doesn’t matter if it’s just a little bird flying too close to the window or the neighbors cutting their grass. Pochui would just bark and bark and bark. We tried crate training, desensitization, late-night walks, pretty much everything.

But it wasn’t until I started using dog calming treats alongside our routine that things actually improved.

So, if you’re here because you’re searching for the best dog calming chews, well, then you're in the right place. Our guide is for all exhausted pet parents out there want to help their dog settle down, but are also worried about side effects or giving them something that might do more harm than good. We'll walk you through how dog calming treats work and help you understand if calming chews are the best option for your pooch.

What Are Dog Calming Chews?

Dog calming chews are soft treats designed to help reduce stress, anxiety, and hyperactivity in dogs.

Unlike sedatives or medication, calming chews typically use natural ingredients like l‑theanine, valerian root, or l‑tryptophan to gently support your dog’s nervous system. Many of these compounds interact with neurotransmitters like serotonin or GABA, which play a key role in regulating mood, fear, and tension.

They're basically a supplement for dogs, supporting your dog’s overall mental health without changing their personality or knocking them out.

The best dog calming chews work gradually, making it easier for your pup to handle loud noises, separation, travel, vet visits, or just everyday triggers. They come in flavors dogs actually want to eat, and they’re easy to add into a routine, especially for dogs who won’t tolerate brushing, collars, or other anxiety tools.

Are Dog Calming Treats Effective?

Yes, but results vary. Some dogs, like my Pochui, respond quickly. Others need time. The right ingredients make all the difference. Plus, a high-quality calming treat won’t actually sedate your dog. Rather, they’ll just feel more balanced and stable. 

In our case, Pochui was still as playful as ever, but he no longer felt anxious about outside sounds. It’s as if the calming treats made him more confident in his surroundings. He seemed more at ease, lounging comfortably even when the usual triggers were present. It was a subtle change, but one that we greatly appreciated.

11 Best Dog Calming Treats in 2025

Before anything else, let’s head straight to our list of the best dog calming treats you can buy today.

NaturVet Calming Dog Chews

We’ve trusted NaturVet for years, and they’ve been making pet supplements for over 25 years. These soft chews are great for dogs who get nervous during storms, car rides, or when left alone. They help ease tension without making dogs feel groggy. Plus, the resealable bag keeps them fresh.

Main Ingredient(s): Melatonin, Thiamine, L‑Tryptophan

Price: $16.83 for 70 counts

‍Get it on NaturVet | Get it on Amazon

Bark&Spark Calming Chews

Simple and effective. That’s what Bark&Spark does best. These chews help anxious dogs stay relaxed without making them sluggish. Whether it’s thunderstorms or separation anxiety, this formula is designed to take the edge off.

Main Ingredient(s): Melatonin, Valerian Root Powder, L-Theanine, Chamomile, Passion Flower, L-Tryptophan

Price: $16.87 for 60 counts

Get it on Bark&Spark | Get it on Amazon

Pet Naturals Calming Dog Chews

If you want a treat without artificial junk, this one’s for you. Pet Naturals keeps things clean, and their chews work without knocking your dog out. Perfect for daily use if your pup needs ongoing support for stress or hyperactivity.

Main Ingredient(s): L-Theanine, Thiamine, Colostrum Calming Complex

Price: $10.75 for 30 counts

Get it on Amazon

Zesty Paws Calming Bites

Zesty Paws is a favorite for a reason. These chews help restless dogs settle down without fillers or weird additives. Dogs love the soft texture, and the natural ingredients make a real difference. If your pup struggles with stressful situations, this is a solid choice.

Main Ingredient(s): Hemp Seed, Chamomile, L-Theanine

Price: $31.47 for 90 counts

Get it on Zesty Paws | Get it on Amazon

PREMIUM CARE Calming Treats

If your dog loves bacon, they’ll love these. Premium Care keeps things natural and avoids artificial fillers. These chews help ease stress without unnecessary ingredients, making them a great go-to for daily use.

Main Ingredient(s): Organic Hemp and Chamomile

Price: $28.99 for 120 counts

Get it on Amazon

VETRISCIENCE Composure Chews

Science-backed and vet-approved. VETRISCIENCE has been making pet supplements for decades, and this formula works fast to calm nervous dogs. The chicken flavor makes it easy to give as a treat. Personally recommended by Dr. Theresa L DePorter.

Main Ingredient(s): L-Theanine, Colostrum Calming Complex, Thiamine

Price: $20.00 for 60 counts

Get it on VetriScience | Get it on Amazon

Well Loved Extra Strength Calming Chews

Developed by vets, these chews are made for hyperactive or anxious dogs. They support relaxation and overall wellness without harsh additives. Soft and easy to chew, so it’s great for senior dogs, too.

Main Ingredient(s): Hemp Oil, Hemp Seed Powder, Chamomile, Valerian Root Powder, Thiamine Mononitrate, Passion Flower, Ginger, L-Tryptophan, Melatonin

Price: $27.99 for 90 counts

Get it on Well Loved | Get it on Amazon

Pet Honesty Calming Hemp Chews

If you prefer natural ingredients, Pet Honesty is a great choice. It’s got no artificial preservatives and no fillers, just calming herbs and amino acids to help ease your dog’s nerves. There are quite a few ingredients in the mix, which might not be for everyone, but if your dog needs solid calming support, this is worth trying. Plus, the soft texture makes it easy to chew.

Main Ingredient(s): Valerian Root, Chamomile Powder, Hemp Seed Powder, Hemp Seed Oil, Passion Flower, L-Theanine, Ashwagandha Root

Price: $42.99 for 60 counts

Get it on Pet Honesty | Get it on Amazon

Solid Gold Keep Calm & Wag On Chews

It’s been 40 years since Solid Gold started making pet nutrition products. These dog calming treats help reduce stress while also supporting digestion and immune health. So, if you want an all-around wellness boost, this is a strong pick.

Main Ingredient(s): Chamomile, Valerian Root, L-Theanine, Ashwagandha, L-Tryptophan, Melatonin

Price: $27.97 for 120 counts

Get it on Solid Gold | Get it on Amazon

StrellaLab Calming Treats

StrellaLab creates supplements that prioritize natural ingredients. These chews focus on natural ingredients that help dogs relax without synthetic fillers. Works for all breeds and sizes.

Main Ingredient(s): Valerian Root, Melatonin, Chamomile

Price: $16.97 for 60 counts

Get it on Amazon

VetIQ Calming Soft Chews

Affordable and effective. VetIQ makes vet-approved supplements at a budget-friendly price. These chews help dogs handle stress without artificial junk. If you need something simple and reliable, give these a try.

Main Ingredient(s): Chamomile Powder, Thiamine Mononitrate, L-Tryptophan, Theanine, Lavender Extract

Price: $11.98 for 60 counts

Get it on Amazon

How Do Dog Calming Treats Work?

Not all calming chews are created equal. Some work because they use proven ingredients in the right amounts. Others are just flavored treats with buzzwords on the label. If you want to help your dog feel calmer without risking their safety, you need to know what’s inside –and what those ingredients actually do.

Below are some of the most well-studied active ingredients you’ll find in top-rated calming chews, along with the science behind how they affect your dog’s brain and body.

L‑Theanine (from Green Tea)

This is one of the ingredients I trust most – and one I use with my own dogs.

L‑theanine is an amino acid naturally found in green tea. In both humans and animals, it’s been shown to increase alpha brain waves (the ones associated with relaxation), without causing sedation.

A 2015 study on dogs with noise phobia found that a twice-daily dose of l‑theanine over 63 days reduced noise-induced anxiety and nervous behaviors in dogs. It works by modulating neurotransmitters like GABA, dopamine, and serotonin, which are directly involved in mood regulation and stress response.

Most dogs tolerate l‑theanine well. It’s safe, non-drowsy, and often one of the first ingredients I look for when choosing a calming chew.

Valerian Root

I’ve used valerian-based chews with dogs that get nervous during thunderstorms or fireworks, and it made a noticeable difference. Valerian root is a herbal ingredient that’s been used for centuries to promote sleep and calm the nervous system.

A 2025 study in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior tested valerian on anxious dogs and found modest improvements in behaviors like fear and restlessness. Brain scans (EEGs) showed some calming activity, and researchers noted a possible effect on dopamine levels. No side effects were reported.

Another 2021 review on herbal supplements highlights valerian’s calming potential through its effect on GABA. It’s not a sedative, but it may gently support the nervous system, especially during short-term stress.

That said, the research is still early. The valerian study didn’t include a placebo group, and the results were modest. But if your dog gets nervous during vet visits or storms, valerian could be a helpful, low-risk ingredient, especially when combined with other dog calming ingredients like L-theanine or passionflower.

L‑Tryptophan

L‑tryptophan is another amino acid, and it’s a precursor to serotonin, the chemical that helps us (and dogs) feel more emotionally balanced.

That said, current research in dogs shows mixed results. A 24-week study on hound dogs found no consistent behavioral changes despite adding tryptophan at different levels. Another randomized, placebo-controlled trial involving over 130 mildly anxious dogs also showed no significant improvements in behavior or stress biomarkers after 8 weeks on a tryptophan-enriched diet.

Meanwhile, a 2019 metabolic study revealed that tryptophan needs vary widely by breed, with Beagles requiring far more than Dachshunds or Labradors. This means dosage and amino acid balance matter more than many products account for.

In short, tryptophan is safe and biologically important, but it hasn’t shown strong calming effects in dogs by itself. It may still help when paired with other ingredients like L‑theanine or valerian in multi-ingredient formulas.

Chamomile & Passionflower

Chamomile is another gentle herbal ingredient that may reduce muscle tension and irritability in dogs. Meanwhile, passionflower supports GABA activity. When paired with other calming agents, can help take the edge off of mild anxiety.

These ingredients aren’t usually strong enough to work alone, but they’re often part of a supportive blend.

Studies on passionflower in animals are still limited, but in combination with valerian and tryptophan, it may contribute to lower cortisol levels and calmer behavior.

Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone the body naturally produces to regulate the sleep-wake cycle. It’s often used in dogs to support sleep, reduce nighttime anxiety, and manage noise phobias.

Vets sometimes recommend melatonin before travel or vet visits to reduce overstimulation. It’s especially helpful for senior dogs who struggle with confusion or restlessness at night.

Most calming chews only include melatonin in low, pet-safe doses. I’d still double-check with your vet if your dog is on any medications or has health conditions.

Are Dog Calming Treats Safe?

For most dogs, yes. But always check with your vet. Some dogs react differently to certain ingredients. Stick to trusted brands with clear ingredient lists. Avoid treats with artificial additives or fillers.

Potential Dog Calming Treat Side Effects

Side effects are rare but possible. They may include:

• Drowsiness (if given too much)
• Upset stomach
• Loose stools
• Allergic reactions (uncommon but possible)

Start with a small dose and watch for changes. If your dog acts differently, stop and talk to your vet.

Are There Dog Calming Treat Alternatives?

Calming treats aren’t the only option. Some dogs need extra support. Other ways to help include:

• Training and desensitization – Teach your dog to handle stress differently.
• Puzzle toys – Keep their mind busy to ease nervous energy.
• Calming music – Soft sounds can reduce stress levels.
• Weighted blankets – Some dogs feel more secure with gentle pressure.
• Exercise – A tired dog is a calmer dog. More movement can reduce anxiety.

Sometimes, a mix of methods works best. Calming treats are a great tool, but they work even better when paired with other strategies.

Help Your Dog Feel Their Best

A calm dog is a happy dog. If stress and anxiety are a problem, calming treats might be the solution. We all want what’s best for our dogs. Whether it’s the right treat or another approach, the goal is the same: helping them feel safe and relaxed.

Try a calming treat, watch the results, and see if it makes a difference. Your dog deserves to feel at peace. And you deserve that peace too!

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