Best Over-the-Counter Anxiety Meds for Dogs

Whether it’s triggered by loud noises, unfamiliar environments, or other stressors, anxiety in dogs can show up in many ways. While it’s important to understand and recognize the signs—and get professional help when needed—many cases of mild to moderate anxiety can be mitigated with a combination of good management strategies and over-the-counter remedies for dogs. From calming chews and herbal supplements to snug-fitting wraps like ThunderShirts, there are accessible options that can help soothe your dog without immediately turning to prescription medications.

Symptoms of Anxiety in Dogs

Before we dive deep into them, you need to be sure your dog is anxious. Technically, anxiety is worrying or nervousness about a situation. Signs of anxiety in dogs include:

• Barking
• Whining
• Restlessness
• Irritability
• Trembling
• Panting
• Shaking
• Ears may be back
• Tail tucked
• Eyes may be wide, possibly showing white

Managing Anxiety in a Dog

Simple management and setting up a quiet place away from noise (like a corner of your basement) can help an anxious dog. Remember that any medication needs to be given ahead of the problem situation. For holidays, when you know fireworks will be shot off, find out the schedule for your town and dose your dog accordingly. If the weather forecast strongly suggests storms, treat ahead.

If you have a puppy going through a fear period, medication should not be the first thing you reach for. You need to back off and reset what you are doing to a point where your pup is not anxious.

If you are presenting your dog with a new situation, going slowly, reassuring him, and walking away if he is highly stressed is a better option than drugging him. Don’t force him to address a scary situation.

That said, if a supplement can settle your dog or pup to where he can think and assess a situation, it can be worthwhile to try while you train through a problem. Remember, don’t rely on the supplement, find training guidance as well!

If you need an anxiety medication for your dog, you need a veterinarian to assess your dog and prescribe it. However, there are over-the-counter anxiety solutions for dogs that I like. A classic example is for dogs who get nervous or car sick when traveling.

Over-the-Counter Remedies for Dog Car Anxiety

Car anxiety occurs in many dogs. Both you and your dog may be able to avoid the vomit-in-a-crate scenario or huge puddles of drool with Earth Heart Travel Calm, a plant-derived product.

Dogs who become anxious in specific situations, such as fireworks or thunderstorms, may be helped with Earth Heart Canine Calm or the supplement melatonin. Many dogs respond well to the use of a ThunderShirt. Its snuggly, constant pressure makes dogs feel more secure, and they settle down.

Rescue Remedy is a well-known supplement for traumatic situations. Vetri Science chews called Calm and Confident are helpful for a dog who is a bit overwhelmed when starting a new dog class or dealing with new and exciting places.

Note: Always check with your veterinarian before trying any supplement to avoid drug interactions.

Natural Remedies for Dog Anxiety

Some herbal ingredients are associated with a calming effect on dogs, including valerian root, hemp seed, tryptophan, and chamomile. Look for these ingredients in supplements but be sure the product you choose has an NASC seal on it. That means the manufacturer is a member of the National Animal Supplements Council and submits to testing to ensure the product has quality ingredients in the amounts listed on the labels. Whatever you do, stick to canine supplements. Don’t use human versions unless under veterinary guidance.

Prescription Anxiety Meds for Dogs

Prescription anxiety medications for dogs include fluoxetine and clomipramine. These should only be used under the guidance of your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist. I would never recommend the use of acepromazine. While your dog may appear physically still, the mental awareness is not controlled.