Small dogs, while often full of energy and personality, can be more prone to anxiety than their larger counterparts. Whether it's due to loud noises, separation anxiety, or environmental stressors, anxious behavior in small dogs is a common issue many pet owners face. Thankfully, there are several natural remedies available, with calming herbs being one of the most effective and gentle approaches to easing anxiety in small dogs. In this blog, we will explore the best calming herbs for anxious small dogs, the science behind how these herbs work, and practical tips for incorporating them into your dog's routine.
Why Small Dogs Are More Prone to Anxiety
Small dogs tend to be more susceptible to anxiety compared to larger breeds. This vulnerability can be attributed to their heightened sensitivity to environmental changes, noise, and even social stressors. Their smaller size can also make them feel more vulnerable, increasing their stress levels in unfamiliar situations.
Moreover, many small dog breeds are naturally more alert and sensitive to their surroundings. These dogs often react to things like loud noises, sudden movements, or even the absence of their owners with heightened anxiety. Small dogs are also more likely to develop separation anxiety because of their deep attachment to their owners, leading to stress when left alone.
If you are dealing with an anxious small dog, it’s crucial to address the root causes of their anxiety in a safe, non-invasive manner. Using natural calming herbs can be an excellent starting point for easing your dog’s stress levels, providing them with much-needed relief.
Common Signs of Anxiety in Small Dogs
Recognizing the signs of anxiety in small dogs is key to managing their stress and providing appropriate solutions. Anxiety can manifest in several ways, and every dog may show different symptoms. Here are some of the most common signs to watch for:
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Excessive barking or whining: An anxious dog might bark or whine excessively, especially in response to certain stimuli or situations like being left alone.
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Destructive behavior: Anxiety can lead to destructive actions, such as chewing furniture, shoes, or household items.
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Trembling or shaking: A common sign of anxiety is physical shaking, especially during stressful events like thunderstorms or car rides.
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Pacing or restlessness: An anxious dog may pace back and forth or exhibit signs of restlessness, unable to settle down.
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Loss of appetite or over-eating: Anxiety can lead to changes in eating habits, either reducing your dog's appetite or causing them to overeat in an attempt to self-soothe.
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Excessive licking or grooming: Anxious dogs might groom themselves excessively, sometimes to the point of creating hot spots or irritated skin.
If your dog is displaying these signs, it’s important to address the issue with natural remedies like calming herbs, which can help alleviate their anxiety in a gentle, effective manner.
How Calming Herbs Work on Small Dogs
Calming herbs have been used for centuries to help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation in both humans and animals. These herbs work by interacting with the nervous system, either by directly calming the brain or by reducing physical symptoms of stress, like muscle tension or digestive upset.
Most calming herbs contain natural compounds that have a soothing effect on the body. For instance, valerian root and chamomile contain compounds that help regulate the body's stress response, while herbs like lavender can promote relaxation through its aroma. Many of these herbs also have anti-inflammatory or digestive benefits, which help address the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as upset stomachs or restlessness.
When using calming herbs for small dogs, it’s important to choose options that are safe and appropriate for their size. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new herbs into your dog’s routine to ensure proper dosages and avoid any adverse reactions. Additionally, integrating calming herbs into a holistic approach to managing anxiety—along with lifestyle changes and environmental adjustments—can make a significant impact on your dog’s well-being.
If you're looking for other natural solutions to maintain a calm and clean environment for your dog, Good Natured Brand’s All-Purpose Cleaner is an eco-friendly, non-toxic solution to clean your home without introducing chemicals that could aggravate your dog's anxiety.
Factors That Contribute to Anxiety in Small Dogs
Understanding what triggers anxiety in small dogs is crucial to managing their stress effectively. Anxiety in small dogs can stem from a variety of factors, both internal and external. Here are some of the most common contributors:
Environmental Triggers
Small dogs are often highly sensitive to their environment. Noises like thunderstorms, fireworks, or even loud household sounds (e.g., vacuum cleaners, doorbells) can easily trigger anxiety. Small dogs may also become stressed when they encounter unfamiliar environments or situations, such as trips to the vet, visits to unfamiliar places, or the presence of other animals.
Separation Anxiety
Small dogs are often extremely attached to their owners and may experience separation anxiety when left alone. This condition can lead to behaviors such as excessive barking, destructive chewing, and house soiling. Separation anxiety is particularly common in breeds that were bred to be companion animals and require constant interaction with their owners.
Health-Related Stressors
Health issues can also contribute to anxiety in small dogs. Pain, illness, or even changes in physical health can cause discomfort and stress, making your dog more anxious. Additionally, some dogs may experience anxiety due to changes in their routine, such as moving to a new home or the addition of a new family member (either human or animal).
Incorporating calming herbs into your dog’s routine can help mitigate some of these stressors by promoting relaxation and helping them cope with environmental or health-related anxiety. For example, a calming herbal remedy like chamomile can help your dog relax during stressful times, such as thunderstorms, while lavender has been shown to have a calming effect in stressful situations.
Why Choose Natural Remedies for Anxious Small Dogs?
When it comes to addressing anxiety in small dogs, natural remedies like calming herbs provide several advantages over traditional pharmaceutical options. Many pet owners are looking for gentle, non-invasive solutions to help their dogs without introducing the risk of side effects associated with medications.
Benefits of Natural Remedies
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Fewer side effects: Unlike pharmaceutical medications, calming herbs are typically free from harsh chemicals and have minimal risk of side effects when used correctly.
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Non-habit forming: Herbal remedies do not cause dependency or create withdrawal symptoms, unlike some prescription medications that may require gradual discontinuation.
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Holistic health benefits: Many calming herbs not only help with anxiety but also provide additional health benefits, such as improving digestion or boosting the immune system.
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Gentle, long-term support: While medications often work quickly to alleviate symptoms, calming herbs provide gentle, long-term support to help your dog’s overall well-being, supporting a calmer disposition over time.
If you're committed to providing a natural, non-toxic environment for your dog, Good Natured Brand’s Carpet Deodorizers can help keep your home fresh without chemicals that could contribute to your dog's anxiety. These eco-friendly deodorizers are safe for pets and effective in neutralizing odors, ensuring a calm atmosphere in your home.
Valerian Root: A Powerful Natural Sedative
Valerian root is one of the most well-known herbs for calming both humans and dogs. This herb acts as a natural sedative by helping to regulate the nervous system and reduce stress levels. It’s particularly beneficial for dogs who experience stress during travel, thunderstorms, or separation anxiety.
How Valerian Root Works
Valerian root contains compounds that help to increase the levels of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation. This makes valerian root an effective herb for reducing anxiety in dogs. It also has muscle-relaxing properties, which can help calm an anxious dog who is physically tense.
How to Use Valerian Root Safely
When using valerian root with small dogs, it’s important to follow proper dosage guidelines. Too much valerian root can lead to lethargy or digestive upset. For best results, use valerian root in a capsule or tincture form, and always consult with your veterinarian to determine the correct dose for your dog’s size.
You can also create a calming environment for your dog by ensuring that their living area is free from strong odors or allergens that could trigger stress. Good Natured Brand’s All-Purpose Cleaner is perfect for cleaning surfaces and creating a fresh, non-toxic space that complements the calming effects of valerian root.
Chamomile: A Gentle Soothing Herb for Dogs
Chamomile is another herb that is well-suited for calming anxious small dogs. It is known for its gentle sedative properties, making it a great choice for dogs who experience mild to moderate anxiety. Chamomile also promotes relaxation and helps with digestive issues that may be exacerbated by stress, such as nausea or upset stomachs.
Benefits of Chamomile for Small Dogs
Chamomile’s calming effect works both physically and mentally. It can help alleviate anxiety symptoms such as excessive barking, restlessness, and even gastrointestinal upset caused by stress. In addition to its calming properties, chamomile is also an anti-inflammatory, helping soothe irritated skin, which can be helpful if your dog’s anxiety is manifesting in stress-related skin conditions.
How to Use Chamomile for Your Dog
Chamomile can be given to dogs in several forms: as a tea, tincture, or in capsule form. To make chamomile tea for your dog, steep the tea bag in hot water, let it cool, and then offer it to your dog. You can also mix the cooled tea into their water or food. If using a tincture, follow the dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer or your vet.
Using natural remedies for anxiety is a holistic approach to promoting relaxation in your pet. For additional peace of mind, consider using Good Natured Brand’s Laundry Powder to clean your dog’s bedding and remove any lingering smells or allergens that could contribute to anxiety.
Lavender: A Calming Herb for Stress and Anxiety
Lavender is perhaps one of the most widely recognized herbs for promoting calm and relaxation. The soothing scent of lavender has been shown to reduce anxiety and stress in both humans and animals. For dogs, lavender can be used in various forms, such as essential oils, sprays, or even dried flowers, to help create a calm, peaceful environment.
How Lavender Helps Reduce Anxiety in Dogs
Lavender works primarily through its aromatic properties, helping to soothe the nervous system when inhaled. It’s particularly useful for dogs who experience anxiety during specific situations like car rides, fireworks, or visits to the vet. Lavender can be diffused into the air, placed in a calming collar, or even used in an essential oil spray on your dog’s bedding.
How to Use Lavender Safely
Lavender essential oil can be diluted and applied topically to your dog’s fur or used in an aromatherapy diffuser. However, it’s crucial to dilute the essential oil properly before use to avoid skin irritation or an overpowering scent. Additionally, you should never allow your dog to ingest lavender essential oil, as it can be toxic in large quantities.
For added comfort, ensure that your dog’s living space is clean and free from any other anxiety-inducing elements. Good Natured Brand’s Carpet Deodorizers are a great option for maintaining a clean, non-toxic environment that supports a calming atmosphere for your dog.
Passionflower: A Natural Stress Reliever
Passionflower is another calming herb that can help reduce anxiety in small dogs. Passionflower is often used to treat anxiety and insomnia in both humans and animals, making it an excellent choice for dogs who suffer from nervousness or stress-related sleep disturbances.
Benefits of Passionflower for Anxiety
Passionflower works by boosting the levels of GABA in the brain, much like valerian root, and has a sedative effect that promotes relaxation and reduces restlessness. It is particularly useful for dogs that experience anxiety due to separation or stress during travel. Passionflower is also non-habit-forming, which makes it a safe long-term option for managing anxiety in dogs.
How to Use Passionflower for Dogs
Passionflower can be given to your dog in capsule or tincture form. Be sure to consult with your vet to determine the appropriate dosage for your dog’s size and breed. Passionflower can also be mixed into your dog’s food or water if they have trouble swallowing pills.
To complement the calming effects of passionflower, maintaining a clean and serene home environment is key. Use Good Natured Brand’s All-Purpose Cleaner to clean areas where your dog spends time, ensuring a fresh, non-toxic space that enhances relaxation and well-being.
Lemon Balm: A Gentle Herb for Calming Nervous Energy
Lemon balm is a lesser-known herb that offers significant benefits for dogs suffering from anxiety. It has mild sedative effects and is especially useful for calming nervous energy and helping dogs settle down in stressful situations.
How Lemon Balm Works
Lemon balm contains compounds that help regulate the nervous system, reducing symptoms of anxiety and agitation. It can be especially helpful for small dogs who are particularly excitable or easily overwhelmed by changes in their environment. Lemon balm can also be used to soothe upset stomachs, which often accompany anxiety in dogs.
How to Use Lemon Balm Safely
Lemon balm can be administered to dogs as a tea or tincture, or even mixed into their food. Like other calming herbs, it is important to use lemon balm in moderation and consult with a veterinarian to ensure the correct dosage.
To ensure a calm environment for your dog, consider using Good Natured Brand’s Carpet Deodorizers to remove any lingering odors that could cause distress. Keeping your dog’s living area clean and free from allergens will support their overall health and well-being.
Creating a Calm Environment for Your Anxious Small Dog
While calming herbs can be incredibly effective, creating a peaceful environment is equally important for reducing anxiety. Dogs are sensitive to their surroundings, so a clean, quiet, and comforting space can do wonders for their emotional well-being.
Use calming scents like lavender or chamomile to create a serene atmosphere. Additionally, consider using calming music or white noise to help mask outside noises that may trigger anxiety.
When cleaning your dog’s bedding and areas they frequent, it’s essential to choose non-toxic, pet-safe products that will not exacerbate anxiety. Good Natured Brand’s Laundry Powder can help you maintain clean bedding, free of harsh chemicals that could potentially irritate your dog’s skin or contribute to stress. It’s a gentle, eco-friendly solution for keeping your dog’s environment peaceful.
Conclusion
Calming herbs are an excellent natural solution for helping small dogs cope with anxiety and stress. Herbs like valerian root, chamomile, lavender, passionflower, and lemon balm offer safe, effective relief without the side effects associated with pharmaceuticals. When used in combination with a clean, serene environment and a balanced routine, these herbs can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life and help them feel more relaxed and at ease.
Remember, always consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new herbs or supplements into your dog’s routine. And for additional support in creating a calm atmosphere, be sure to use Good Natured Brand’s All-Purpose Cleaner and Carpet Deodorizers to maintain a safe and peaceful environment.
