Last Updated on April 1, 2025 by Analgesia team
If you’ve ever watched your dog tremble during a thunderstorm, hide under the sofa during fireworks, or bark endlessly when you leave the house, you’re not alone. Anxiety in dogs is more common than most people think, and it can be heartbreaking to see our furry friends struggle.
As many as 57% of dogs become anxious because of noises and 47% experience anxiety due to separation from their owners.
So, how can you help your anxious pup? One solution that’s growing in popularity is calming treats. Not only are they easy to use, but they’re also a natural and gentle way to reduce stress.
What Causes Anxiety in Dogs?
Before we delve into the treats, it’s worth understanding why dogs feel anxious in the first place. Anxiety in dogs can stem from several sources, including:
A wide variety of situations can cause stress in dogs. Fireworks, thunderstorms, and other noise disturbances are among the most common culprits, but that’s just the beginning. Things like a fear of strangers or even inattention from their owners can also lead to heightened stress levels.
- Separation anxiety: Some dogs experience separation anxiety, where they struggle with being left alone for extended periods.
- Loud noises: Fireworks, thunderstorms, or even a vacuum cleaner can trigger fear.
- New environments: A trip to the vet or a move to a new home can stress out even the calmest of canines.
Recognizing these triggers is the first step in helping your dog manage their anxiety. Now, let’s talk about how calming treats come into play!
How Do Calming Treats Work?
Calming treats are specially designed to ease your dog’s stress by using natural, soothing ingredients. Here are some key components you’ll often find in the best calming treats for dogs UK:
- Chamomile and Lavender: Known for their calming properties, these ingredients help dogs relax.
- L-theanine and L-tryptophan: Amino acids that promote a sense of calm without causing drowsiness.
- Hemp oil: A popular ingredient that helps to reduce anxiety and hyperactivity.
CBD is a key ingredient in many calming treats for dogs, and its benefits extend to humans as well. I will recommend you read our CBD oil for dogs to learn its benefits.
These treats are like a warm hug for your dog, helping them feel safe and secure. But which ones should you choose? Let’s check out some top options available in the UK.
Top 4 Best Calming Treats for Dogs in the UK
Here’s a curated list of some of the best calming treats in the UK. These are loved by pet owners for their effectiveness and quality.
Best Calming Treats | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
 NutriPaw All-Itch Immunity Treats |
| From £33 |
 Forthglade Calming Dog Treats |
| £18 |
 Hemp Calming Dog Treats |
| £20 |
 Zylkene Calming Chews |
| £21 |
Got your treat picked out? Now it’s time to use them wisely!
How to Use Calming Treats Effectively
To make the most of calming treats, keep these tips in mind:
- Give them ahead of time: For events like fireworks or a vet visit, offer the treats about 30 minutes beforehand.
- Stick to the recommended dose: Always follow the packaging instructions to avoid overfeeding.
- Combine with other strategies: Calming treats work best when paired with positive reinforcement and a stress-free environment.
Adjusting to new situations can be challenging for dogs, especially if they’re in a new environment. That’s where the 3-3-3 rule comes in—a helpful guideline for understanding how dogs settle into their new homes.
What Does 3-3-3 Mean for Dogs?
The “3-3-3 rule” is a guideline often used to describe the adjustment period for newly adopted dogs as they settle into their new homes. It breaks down into three phases:
- First 3 Days: During this time, your dog may feel overwhelmed, nervous, or unsure about their new environment. They might not eat much, hide, or test boundaries as they adjust to the unfamiliar surroundings.
- First 3 Weeks: By now, your dog starts to feel more comfortable and begins to settle into a routine. They may start showing their true personality and building trust with you.
- First 3 Months: At this stage, your dog is likely to feel fully at home. They understand the household rules, feel secure, and have formed a strong bond with their new family.
Helping your dog stay calm and happy doesn’t have to feel like an uphill battle. With the best calming treats for dogs in the UK, you have a simple yet effective tool to reduce stress and improve your pup’s quality of life. So, the next time anxiety strikes, reach for one of these treats and watch your dog rediscover their wagging tail and carefree spirit.
Because every dog deserves a stress-free life—and so do their owners.