The 5 Best Calming Treats for Anxious Dogs of 2025
🏆 Top Picks at a Glance
#1
Best Overall
Zesty Paws Calming Chews for Dogs Composure & Relaxation for Everyday Stress & Separation Peanut Butter 90 Count
$34.97
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#2
Runner Up
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements Calming Care - Calming Dog Supplements - 30 ct. Boxes
$33.99
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#3
Best Value
Solid Gold Calming Chews for Dogs - Dog Calming Chews w/Melatonin for Separation, Stress & Hyperactivity Relief - Supports Relaxation for Travel, Fireworks & Storms - All Ages & Sizes - Bacon 120ct
$20.97
Check Price →If your dog wears worry like a favorite blanket—panting, trembling, or retreating to a crate during storms, travel, or busy mornings—you’re not alone. Canine anxiety research supports using calm chews as part of a broader, vet-guided plan rather than a quick fix, pairing ingredients like L-theanine, melatonin, and hemp with steady routines. This round-up highlights Vet-formulated, hemp-based, and herbal options that fit real-life moments—from seasonal changes to senior comfort and anxious days. Pet parent tip: start with a small, pre-event trial dose a few days before a known stressor, pair it with a comforting routine (soft bed, gentle brushing, and a familiar toy), and monitor for changes before increasing the amount.
⚡ Quick Answer: Best Pet Health
Vet-Formulated Calming Support: Veterinary Formula Pet Calm 60ct – Vet-Formulated Calming Chews for Dogs with L-Theanine, L-Tryptophan for Behavior Support, Relaxation Treats, Puppy Chews for Stressful Situations, Dog Calming Aid
$13.46 — Check price on Amazon →
Table of Contents
- Main Points
- Our Top Picks
- Veterinary Formula Pet Calm 60ct – Vet-Formulated Calming Chews for Dogs with L-Theanine, L-Tryptophan for Behavior Support, Relaxation Treats, Puppy Chews for Stressful Situations, Dog Calming Aid
- GOODGROWLIES Advanced Calming Chews for Dogs - Hemp Treat + Melatonin + Valerian - Relaxing Bites - Calming Care - Stress Relief - Made in USA - Calm, Sleep Aid, Storms - 60Ct
- Hemp Calming Chews for Dogs Anxiety -120 Hemp Dog Calming Chews - Anxiety Relief Treats with Melatonin - Advanced Pet Stress Relief, Separation Aid, Barking, Thunder, Fireworks, Travel - Made in USA
- Native Pet Calming Chews for Dogs Small Breed - Promotes Calming Effect, Supports Emotional Balance & Reduces Hyperactivity - Hemp Seed, Melatonin for Dogs, L-Theanine & Casein - Air-Dried 30 Chews
- Native Pet Calming Chews for Dogs Medium Breed - Promotes Calming Effect, Supports Emotional Balance & Reduces Hyperactivity - Hemp Seed, Melatonin for Dogs, L-Theanine & Casein -Air-Dried 60 Chews
- UEOWJET Неmр Calming Chews for Dogs - Dog Calming Chews, for Separation, Strеss & Hyperactivity Rеlief, Supports Rеlaxation for Travel, Fireworks & Storms, Slеep Aid-All Ages & Sizes
- Greenies Supplements Calming Chews for Dogs Chicken Flavor, Dog Calming Chews, 7.3 oz. Container of 40 Count
- VetIQ Calming Support Supplement for Dogs, Calming Chews Help Manage Stress and Promote Relaxation, Anxiety Relief for Dogs, Made in The USA, 60 Count
- Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Main Points
- Choose ingredients with some veterinary backing—L-theanine, melatonin, and hemp-based components can help support a calmer response to short-term stress when used as directed and alongside veterinary guidance.
- Size- and dose-appropriate options matter: look for 30- or 60-count containers and weight-based dosing so you can tailor use for morning routines, travel days, or senior comfort.
- Prioritize transparency and safety: opt for brands with clear ingredient lists, no potentially harmful additives, and reliable manufacturing information (such as USA-made or third-party testing where available).
- Calm works best as part of a plan: pair chews with a predictable routine, a cozy resting space, and positive training to support your dog’s emotional balance, not just a quick fix.
- For storms, fireworks, or travel days, start early, watch for signs of over-sedation or disorientation, and consult your veterinarian if your dog has medical conditions or takes other medications—these chews are supplements, not substitutes for veterinary care.
Our Top Picks
More Details on Our Top Picks
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Veterinary Formula Pet Calm 60ct – Vet-Formulated Calming Chews for Dogs with L-Theanine, L-Tryptophan for Behavior Support, Relaxation Treats, Puppy Chews for Stressful Situations, Dog Calming Aid
🏆 Best For: Vet-Formulated Calming Support
What earns this product its Vet-Formulated Calming Support position is its veterinary-guided design that uses time-honored natural ingredients like L-Theanine and L-Tryptophan to ease tense moments without sedating the dog. The 60-chew bottle fits into daily routines and travel days alike, making it a practical option for both puppies and adult dogs as part of a broader wellness plan.
Key features translate into real-world benefits: a calm-support blend that can help during morning routines, thunderstorms, firework events, and car rides. The chew format is convenient for busy households, and many dogs tolerate the taste well enough to become a familiar part of their daily self-care. As with any wellness product, consistency helps most, and this option can pair nicely with enrichment, exercise, and vet-guided behavior strategies.
Who should consider this and when: dogs with mild-to-moderate anxiety or stress in predictable situations (car trips, grooming, vet visits, seasonal changes) and puppies starting to encounter new environments. It’s a practical, non-prescription tool to soften daily stressors while you work on broader behavioral goals, training, and routine stability. Always coordinate with your veterinarian if your dog has existing medical conditions or is on other medications.
Drawbacks to keep in mind: individual response varies, and it’s not a substitute for professional behavioral care. If anxiety is severe or persistent, a vet visit is still essential. Some dogs may not care for the taste, so be prepared to try alternatives if needed.
✅ Pros
- Contains L-Theanine and L-Tryptophan for calm
- Vet-formulated for safety and guidance
- Easy chew format for daily use
❌ Cons
- May not work for severe anxiety
- Some dogs may dislike the taste
- Key Feature: L-Theanine & L-Tryptophan calming blend
- Material / Build: Veterinary-formulated chew
- Best For: Vet-Formulated Calming Support
- Size / Dimensions: 60-chew bottle
- Special Feature: Gentle, non-sedating calming aid
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GOODGROWLIES Advanced Calming Chews for Dogs - Hemp Treat + Melatonin + Valerian - Relaxing Bites - Calming Care - Stress Relief - Made in USA - Calm, Sleep Aid, Storms - 60Ct
🏆 Best For: Best Hemp Sleep Support
The GOODGROWLIES Advanced Calming Chews earn the “Best Hemp Sleep Support” badge by delivering a balanced, hemp-based calming blend that pairs melatonin and valerian with a tasty chew. Priced at $9.97 for a 60-count bottle and made in the USA, these chews are designed for short-term, situational anxiety—think thunderstorms, fireworks, or car rides—implementing a soothing routine rather than relying on heavy sedatives. The ingredient list stays clear and transparent, which helps pet parents feel confident including a natural option in their dog’s wellness plan without guessing at hidden fillers.
Key features include a hemp-derived calming base combined with melatonin and valerian, a soft chew texture that most dogs accept, and a practical 60-count package that supports ongoing use during stressful periods. In real life, you may notice steadier evenings, a quicker settle after a long walk, and a dog that sleeps a bit more soundly through the night when storms rumble outside. Pet parent tip: Start with the lowest recommended dose on a calm day, and give it 30–60 minutes before a known trigger, pairing with a short, comforting routine.
Who should consider this? Dogs that tremble at thunderstorms, shy away during fireworks, or seem unsettled during travel and vet visits can benefit from a predictable calming routine that doesn’t involve hard medications. It’s also a thoughtful option for senior dogs whose sleep has become fragmented or for households navigating multi-dog dynamics where one pet’s anxiety echoes through the home. If your dog is on other medications or has a chronic condition, check in with your veterinarian to ensure this blend fits into your overall care plan.
Honest caveats to note: this isn’t a cure for chronic separation anxiety or behaviorally rooted fears, and results can vary from dog to dog. Some pups may experience mild drowsiness or sensitivity to melatonin, and a few dogs simply don’t take to the taste or texture. Use as directed and monitor for changes in appetite, energy, or behavior, especially during weather events or travel days.
✅ Pros
- Effective for situational stress
- Palatable soft chews, easy dosing
- Made in USA with clear ingredients
❌ Cons
- Not universal; some dogs don’t respond
- Possible mild drowsiness in sensitive dogs
- Key Feature: Hemp-based calming blend with melatonin & valerian
- Material / Build: Soft chew texture
- Best For: Best Hemp Sleep Support
- Size / Dimensions: 60-count bottle
- Special Feature: Made in USA
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Hemp Calming Chews for Dogs Anxiety -120 Hemp Dog Calming Chews - Anxiety Relief Treats with Melatonin - Advanced Pet Stress Relief, Separation Aid, Barking, Thunder, Fireworks, Travel - Made in USA
🏆 Best For: Best for Separation Anxiety
This Hemp Calming Chews for Dogs earns the "Best for Separation Anxiety" badge because its hemp-based calming blend, paired with melatonin, is designed to ease distress when a pet parent leaves. The combination targets the core signals of separation anxiety—restlessness, pacing, whining, and trembling—without heavy sedation. With 120 chews in a USA-made bottle and a price around $21.95, it offers an approachable option for daily or trigger-based use.
The key features blend hemp-derived calming compounds with melatonin, delivered in easy-to-give chews. The soft chew texture makes dosing straightforward during morning routines, before travel, or when storms roll in. Pet parents often notice calmer departure mornings (less pacing at the door), quieter car rides, and reduced barking during fireworks or thunderstorms—though effects can vary by dog. It can also be helpful for seniors who experience anxiety during caregiver changes or routine shifts.
Who should buy this and when: ideal for dogs with separation anxiety, frequent barkers when left alone, or nerves around travel and loud noises. Use during predictable triggers like morning departures, vacations, or seasonal storms. Start with the smallest recommended dose 30–60 minutes before the trigger, and adjust as needed while monitoring for drowsiness or changes in appetite. As always, pair with positive training and consult your veterinarian if your dog has health issues, is on medications, or is pregnant or nursing.
Drawbacks to consider: effectiveness varies; some dogs may need time to respond. Hemp-based products may cause drowsiness or interact with other medications. This product is a supplement and should not replace veterinary guidance or treatment for severe anxiety.
✅ Pros
- Targeted for separation anxiety relief
- Easy chew form, daily use
- Hemp + melatonin; clear ingredient list
❌ Cons
- Results vary; some dogs need time
- Not a substitute for veterinary care
- Key Feature: Hemp + Melatonin calming blend
- Material / Build: Soft chew tablets
- Best For: Best for Separation Anxiety
- Size / Dimensions: 120-count bottle
- Special Feature: Made in USA; travel-friendly
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Native Pet Calming Chews for Dogs Small Breed - Promotes Calming Effect, Supports Emotional Balance & Reduces Hyperactivity - Hemp Seed, Melatonin for Dogs, L-Theanine & Casein - Air-Dried 30 Chews
🏆 Best For: Best for Small Breeds
Native Pet Calming Chews for Dogs Small Breed earn the "Best for Small Breeds" badge because the formula and chew size are tailored for tiny pups, with bite-sized chews that are easier to handle than larger formulas. The blend includes hemp seed, melatonin, L-theanine, and casein, and the air-dried texture makes them gentle on sensitive mouths. In everyday life, these chews can help ease mornings, travel days, or fireworks-related nerves in small dogs. Pet parent tip: start with half a chew in a quiet space and observe for 30-60 minutes before offering more.
These air-dried chews preserve natural flavors and offer a gentle calming blend—hemp seed, melatonin, and L-theanine—without heavy processing. Real-world benefits show up as reduced pacing, quieter greetings at the door, and smoother car rides or vet visits for small dogs. Pet parent tip: pair dosing with a predictable routine and a short training cue to reinforce calm behavior.
Who should buy this and when: Ideal for small breeds prone to anxiety, storm fears, travel nerves, or senior dogs with restlessness during evening wind-down. It can be helpful during fireworks, new environments, or changes in family routines when hyperactivity or whimpering increases. Pet parent tip: use during anticipated stressors (e.g., before a flight or a storm) and monitor your dog's response to adjust timing and dose.
Honest caveats: this is not a cure, and responses vary by dog. Some pups may take longer to show effects, and melatonin can interact with certain meds; not suitable for dairy-sensitive dogs due to casein. Pet parent tip: check with your veterinarian if your dog is on meds or has chronic issues before starting, and watch for dairy sensitivity or mood changes.
✅ Pros
- Small-breed friendly chew size.
- Calming blend: hemp, melatonin, L-theanine.
- Air-dried texture is easy to chew.
❌ Cons
- Effects vary by individual dog.
- Contains casein; not for dairy allergies.
- Key Feature: Calming blend with hemp seed, melatonin, L-theanine
- Material / Build: Air-dried, bite-sized chews
- Best For: Best for Small Breeds
- Size / Dimensions: 30 chews per bag
- Special Feature: Casein for palatability
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Native Pet Calming Chews for Dogs Medium Breed - Promotes Calming Effect, Supports Emotional Balance & Reduces Hyperactivity - Hemp Seed, Melatonin for Dogs, L-Theanine & Casein -Air-Dried 60 Chews
🏆 Best For: Best for Medium Breeds
Native Pet Calming Chews for Dogs Medium Breed earns the Best for Medium Breeds badge because the chew size, texture, and calming blend are thoughtfully matched to typical mid-size dogs who face everyday stressors—from morning doorbell greetings to car rides and nighttime nerves. The air-dried chews combine hemp seed, melatonin, and L-theanine with casein to support a steadier emotional baseline without heavy sedation, and the 60-count bottle fits easily into a predictable daily routine. At $24.99, it offers a practical option for ongoing calming support that works alongside sound training and regular veterinary guidance.
Key features and real-world benefits: The blend of hemp seed, melatonin and L-theanine provides a gentle, non-prescription approach to calmness that can help reduce hyperactivity during noisy events, travel days, or vet visits. The air-dried texture makes the chew approachable for many medium-size dogs and easy to incorporate into a morning routine or before a known trigger like fireworks or seasonal changes. For seniors who get overwhelmed by visitors or new environments, these chews can offer a comforting cue that supports a calmer day without removing opportunities for enrichment and bonding.
Who should buy this and when: It’s well-suited for medium breed dogs showing mild to moderate anxiety—pacing, barking at noises, or restlessness during storms and travel—when you want a calming option that complements routine, training, and environmental management. Use it on travel days, vet visits, boarding, or other predictable stressors, and start with the lowest effective amount while monitoring response. If your dog is on medications or has dairy sensitivities, check with your veterinarian before using melatonin or mixed ingredients like casein alongside other treatments.
Honest drawbacks or caveats: Not a guaranteed fix for every anxious dog; some may show limited response or refuse the chew. Dairy sensitivity to casein and potential melatonin interactions with certain meds or conditions warrant veterinary input—avoid use in pregnant dogs without guidance. This product should complement veterinary care, not replace it. Pet parent tip: Start with half a chew, observe for 24 hours, and pair with a stable routine and enrichment to maximize calm during stress.
✅ Pros
- Balanced calming blend for mid-size dogs
- Easy-to-chew, approachable texture
- Clear ingredient list and transparency
❌ Cons
- Not effective for severe anxiety
- May not suit all dogs
- Key Feature: Calming blend with hemp seed, melatonin, L-theanine
- Material / Build: Air-dried, mid-size dog chew
- Best For: Medium Breeds
- Size / Dimensions: 60 chews per bottle
- Special Feature: Gentle, daily-use calming support
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UEOWJET Неmр Calming Chews for Dogs - Dog Calming Chews, for Separation, Strеss & Hyperactivity Rеlief, Supports Rеlaxation for Travel, Fireworks & Storms, Slеep Aid-All Ages & Sizes
🏆 Best For: Best for Travel and Storms
This product earns the Best for Travel and Storms badge by targeting the exact moments many dogs struggle—car rides, hotel stays, travel days, storms, and fireworks—offering a portable, chewable option that can help maintain calm without relying on pills. Marketed for separation, stress, and hyperactivity relief, it’s designed with travel and unpredictable weather in mind, and it promises to support dogs of all ages and sizes through busy days and unfamiliar environments.
Key features translate into real-world benefits: a soft chew that’s easy to dose, especially when routines are disrupted; convenient packaging for trips; and a formulation aimed at reducing noticeable tension during travel, storms, and fireworks. For many families, this can mean a smoother morning routine before a long drive or a calmer overnight stay away from home, which can also help a senior dog settle into a new hotel room.
Who should buy this and when: it’s well-suited for dogs who get anxious during car rides, fireworks, thunder storms, or when left alone during travel. It can smooth out the rough edges of travel days, vet visits, or camping trips, and it may be helpful for senior dogs who show more stress in new surroundings. Use as part of a broader calming plan, and consult your veterinarian if your dog has medical conditions or is on medications.
Honest caveats: results vary—some dogs respond quickly, others show only modest changes. The listing doesn’t disclose dosage details, and individual needs may require adjustments. Not a substitute for veterinary care; monitor for any allergic reactions and stop if unusual symptoms occur. Pet parent tip: Start with a trial run at home before a trip or storm day to gauge response and timing.
✅ Pros
- Travel-friendly chew format
- Suitable for all ages & sizes
- Gentle, non-sedating calm support
❌ Cons
- Effect varies by dog
- Dosing not listed on the page
- Key Feature: Travel- and storm-focused calming
- Material / Build: Soft chew, dog-safe formula
- Best For: Best for Travel and Storms
- Size / Dimensions: Pack size not disclosed
- Special Feature: For all ages and sizes
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Greenies Supplements Calming Chews for Dogs Chicken Flavor, Dog Calming Chews, 7.3 oz. Container of 40 Count
🏆 Best For: Best Tasty Calming Chews
What earns this product the "Best Tasty Calming Chews" position is its approachable, chicken-flavored formula that many dogs eagerly accept, turning a potentially stressful morning routine into a calmer start. The soft, chewable texture works well for dogs of all ages, including seniors who struggle with stiffness, and it fits naturally into daily habits without turning calming into a chore.
Key features and real-world benefits include a 7.3 oz container holding 40 chews, a straightforward daily option for situational calm, and a formulation aimed at supporting gentle relaxation during common stressors like car rides, doorbells, and vet visits. In practice, many pet parents report their dogs show slower pacing, relaxed shoulders, and less frantic tail-wagging when the chew is part of their routine—without dampening appetite or energy.
Who should buy this and when: ideal for dogs with mild to moderate anxiety in predictable situations such as travel days, fireworks, thunderstorms, or new environments. It can help senior dogs feel more settled during car rides or overnight stays, and it’s a practical add-on during seasonal changes when routines shift. Remember, it’s a supplement to a broader calming plan and not a substitute for veterinary guidance if anxiety is persistent or severe.
Honest caveats: results vary from dog to dog, and some pups may take longer to respond. Palatability and effectiveness can differ, so start with the smallest recommended amount and monitor stool, appetite, and mood. Pet parent tip: pair the chew with a brief, positive training or enrichment exercise for best results during travel or loud events.
✅ Pros
- Palatable chicken flavor
- 40-count container for easy dosing
- Non-drowsy calming support
❌ Cons
- Effect varies by dog
- Not a substitute for veterinary care
- Key Feature: Tasty calming chew with gentle ingredients
- Material / Build: Soft chew texture for easy swallowing
- Best For: Best Tasty Calming Chews
- Size / Dimensions: 7.3 oz container, 40 chews
- Special Feature: Chicken flavor for high palatability
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VetIQ Calming Support Supplement for Dogs, Calming Chews Help Manage Stress and Promote Relaxation, Anxiety Relief for Dogs, Made in The USA, 60 Count
🏆 Best For: Best for Stress Relief
VetIQ Calming Support Chews earn the Best for Stress Relief position because they offer a dependable, palatable option many anxious dogs will actually accept, turning tense mornings or fireworks nights into calmer, more predictable routines. The product’s straightforward chew format helps reduce the struggle of getting a treat into a wary mouth, which is a common hurdle for nervous pups. Pet parent tip: pair the chew with a predictable routine and gentle reassurance to help your dog connect calm with the treat.
Key features and real-world benefits include a soft, chewable texture that’s easier for seniors or dogs with dental issues to enjoy, and a formulation designed to support a calmer demeanor during everyday stressors like car rides, thunderstorms, or visits to the vet. While it isn’t a cure-all, many pet parents notice less pacing, fewer trembles, and reduced frantic panting during anxiety triggers. Pet parent tip: store the chews in a consistent spot and offer after a brief, positive training session to reinforce calm cues.
Who should buy and when: this can be a good fit for dogs with noise fears, travel nerves, or long days home alone, as well as households experiencing seasonal changes or new routines that shake up your dog’s comfort zone. It’s most effective when used as part of a broader wellness plan that includes enrichment, predictable routines, and veterinary guidance as needed. Pet parent tip: start with a trial on a lower-stress day to gauge how your dog responds before relying on it for a high-stress event.
Drawbacks or caveats: results can vary by dog and may take several days to weeks to become noticeable, and it should not replace veterinary care for severe anxiety or medical issues. Some dogs may be picky about taste, and you’ll want to follow label dosing and check for interactions with any medications. Pet parent tip: monitor for unusual lethargy or appetite changes and contact your veterinarian if you have concerns.
✅ Pros
- Reliable chew format for many dogs
- Made in the USA with clear labeling
- Supports calmer behavior during common stressors
❌ Cons
- Effect timing varies by dog
- Not a substitute for veterinary care for severe anxiety
- Key Feature: Calming chew formulation for dogs
- Material / Build: Soft chew texture for easy ingestion
- Best For: Best for Stress Relief
- Size / Dimensions: 60-count bottle
- Special Feature: Made in the USA, consistent dosing
Factors to Consider
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly makes a calming treat different from a regular dog treat?
Calming treats are formulated with ingredients chosen to support relaxation and coping during stress, not to sedate; effects can vary by dog and you may need to try a few options to find what works. They should be used as part of a broader plan that includes routine, training, and, when needed, veterinary guidance. Always read labels and avoid relying on them as a sole solution for anxiety.
Are calming treats safe for senior dogs?
In many cases yes, but dosing may need adjustment for smaller seniors or those with medical conditions; always check with your veterinarian, especially if your dog is on medications. Look for senior-formulated options that consider potential sensitivity, arthritis, or digestive changes common in older dogs. Monitor for any changes in appetite, energy, or GI comfort and adjust as advised by your vet.
Can calming treats replace veterinary care?
No; they are intended as a supportive aid to comfort during stressful times and to complement, not replace, medical or behavioral management. If anxiety is severe, persistent, or interfering with daily life, work with a veterinarian or veterinary behaviorist to explore underlying causes and evidence-based strategies. A holistic approach often yields the best long-term comfort for your dog.
Which ingredients have the strongest evidence in dogs?
L-theanine, L-tryptophan, and melatonin are frequently discussed in veterinary literature as having the most support for calming effects, though results can vary. CBD products show more mixed results and quality varies widely, so choose veterinary-formulated products and discuss with your vet before use. Always prioritize high-quality sourcing and transparent labeling when evaluating these options.
How long before a stressful event should I give the treat?
Most labels suggest 30–60 minutes before a predictable stressor, but timing can differ by product and dog; start with the lower end and monitor your dog’s response. If you have an ongoing pattern like car rides or fireworks season, consider a trial run weeks ahead to dial in the timing. Keep a simple routine so you can pair the treat with familiar cues that your dog associates with safety.
Do calming treats interact with medications?
Yes, potential interactions exist with sedatives or other medications; always inform your veterinarian about any supplements you give your dog. Some ingredients can modify how other drugs work, so your vet can help coordinate timing and dosing. This is especially important if your dog has thyroid issues, heart conditions, or is on anti-anxiety medications.
