9 Calming Chamomile Dog Treats for Anxious Pups at Bedtime

Zesty Paws is a powerhouse in the pet supplement world, and their Calming Bites are a fan favorite for a reason. These turkey-flavored soft chews are packed with a blend of organic, natural ingredients designed to help your dog relax without making them drowsy.

Ingredients Deep Dive

The magic starts with organic chamomile and valerian root, two classic herbs known for their calming properties. But they don’t stop there. Zesty Paws includes Suntheanine, a pure form of L-Theanine that promotes relaxation without drowsiness, and organic hemp powder to support stress reduction. The inclusion of L-Tryptophan helps the body produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of well-being and happiness. Finally, a touch of melatonin is added to specifically help regulate sleep cycles, making these an excellent choice for bedtime.

Sourcing & Quality

Zesty Paws products are manufactured in FDA-registered, GMP-certified facilities in the United States. They are known for their commitment to quality and transparency, using premium and globally sourced ingredients. They are also a member of the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC), which adds another layer of trust for pet parents.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

Zesty Paws Calming Bites are an excellent, well-rounded option for dogs with moderate to severe anxiety, especially those who struggle to settle down at night. The multi-ingredient formula tackles anxiety from several angles, making it one of the most effective on the market.

If you’re looking for a hemp-based solution, PetHonesty’s Calming Hemp Chews are a top contender. These duck-flavored soft chews use natural and organic ingredients to help ease anxiety, reduce hyperactivity, and promote a sense of calm in your canine companion.

Ingredients Deep Dive

The star ingredient here is organic hemp powder and oil, known for their ability to support a calm disposition and manage stress. This is paired beautifully with organic chamomile, which works to relax the body and mind. Valerian root is also included, an herb that has been used for centuries to ease insomnia and anxiety. Finally, ginger root is a thoughtful addition to help soothe any nervous tummies that often accompany stress in dogs.

Sourcing & Quality

PetHonesty is another brand that prides itself on quality. Their chews are made in the USA in a GMP-certified facility with globally sourced ingredients. They avoid chemical preservatives, wheat, corn, and soy, making them a great choice for dogs with common food sensitivities. Their commitment to natural ingredients is a huge plus for health-conscious pet owners.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

For pet parents specifically interested in the benefits of hemp for their dog’s anxiety, PetHonesty Calming Hemp Chews are an outstanding choice. They are ideal for dogs who experience stress from travel, thunderstorms, or separation, as well as general restlessness at bedtime.

NaturVet has been a trusted brand for over 25 years, and their Quiet Moments Calming Aid is a testament to their experience. This formula is designed to be a fast-acting solution for dogs experiencing stress and tension, making it perfect for those pre-bedtime jitters.

Ingredients Deep Dive

This supplement features a unique blend of Thiamine (Vitamin B1) and L-Tryptophan, which work together to reduce stress and tension. Chamomile flower and passion flower are included to promote a sense of calm and relaxation. The key ingredient for bedtime is melatonin, a hormone that helps the body recognize it’s time to sleep. This combination is particularly effective for resetting a dog’s internal clock and encouraging rest.

Sourcing & Quality

NaturVet products are veterinarian-formulated and manufactured in the USA in an FDA-audited, cGMP-compliant facility. They are proud members of the NASC and carry the NASC Quality Seal, which means they undergo rigorous third-party audits to ensure quality control. This level of oversight provides significant peace of mind for pet owners.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

NaturVet Quiet Moments is a reliable and affordable choice for pet parents who need a fast-acting calming aid for specific situations, like fireworks or thunderstorms, in addition to bedtime. The inclusion of melatonin makes it especially suited for pups who have trouble winding down at night.

Not every dog needs a heavy-duty supplement. For those who just need a little nudge toward relaxation, Bocce’s Bakery Bedtime Tea Treats are a delightful and gentle option. These are less of a supplement and more of a calming cookie, perfect for building a positive bedtime routine.

Ingredients Deep Dive

Simplicity is key here. These crunchy, B-shaped biscuits are made with a limited list of all-natural ingredients. The recipe features oat flour, chamomile, vanilla, and a hint of honey for sweetness. There are no strange chemicals or fillers. The chamomile provides a mild calming effect, making this treat a perfect way to signal to your dog that it’s time to wind down for the night without the potent effects of ingredients like melatonin or hemp.

Sourcing & Quality

Bocce’s Bakery is known for its small-batch, USA-baked treats using real, recognizable ingredients. They started in a small NYC kitchen with the mission to create better biscuits with fresh, simple ingredients. This commitment to quality and simplicity is evident in every bag.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

Bocce’s Bakery Bedtime Tea Treats are the perfect choice for dogs with mild anxiety or for pet parents who want to establish a soothing bedtime routine. Think of it as a warm cup of tea in cookie form for your best friend.

Well & Good offers a veterinarian-formulated calming chew that provides gentle, daily support for dogs who are prone to nervousness or hyperactivity. These chicken-flavored soft chews are designed to help your dog maintain a normal, relaxed disposition.

Ingredients Deep Dive

The formula for these chews is centered around a trio of well-regarded calming aids. Chamomile provides the foundational relaxing effect. Lemon Balm, another herb from the mint family, is included for its stress-reducing properties. The standout ingredient is L-Theanine, an amino acid found in green tea that is known to promote an alert state of relaxation without drowsiness. This makes it a great option for taking the edge off without knocking your pup out.

Sourcing & Quality

Well & Good products are made to high standards, focusing on providing practical and effective solutions for pet wellness. The chews are typically made in the USA and formulated by veterinarians to ensure both safety and efficacy, offering a reliable choice for daily use.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

Well & Good Calming Chews are ideal for dogs that need consistent, low-level anxiety support. If your dog is generally a bit high-strung or gets restless every evening, these chews can provide the gentle, daily calming influence needed to help them settle into a peaceful night’s sleep.

Premium Care’s calming chews are another excellent hemp-based option, formulated with a blend of organic ingredients to help dogs cope with stressful situations. These duck-flavored treats are particularly popular for managing hyperactivity and separation anxiety, which can often peak at bedtime.

Ingredients Deep Dive

This formula combines the power of organic hemp oil and powder with a host of other calming agents. Organic chamomile and organic passion flower work synergistically to relax the nervous system. Valerian root helps to reduce anxiety and promote restfulness. L-Tryptophan is also included to support healthy serotonin levels, which can help stabilize your dog’s mood. It’s a robust blend designed for noticeable results.

Sourcing & Quality

Made in the USA in a cGMP-certified facility, Premium Care emphasizes natural and organic ingredients. They offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee, which shows confidence in their product and provides a risk-free opportunity for pet parents to see if the chews work for their dog.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

Premium Care Calming Chews are a fantastic choice for dogs whose anxiety manifests as hyperactivity or destructive behavior. The powerful combination of ingredients makes it a strong contender for pups who haven’t responded to milder formulas and need extra support to calm down before bed.

For something completely different, The Honest Kitchen offers a unique approach to calming. Pro Bloom is not a chew or a biscuit, but a dehydrated goat’s milk powder that you rehydrate and add to your dog’s food or serve on its own. It’s a wonderful option for picky eaters or dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Ingredients Deep Dive

This ‘instant’ goat’s milk is packed with 5 billion active probiotics and digestive enzymes, making it incredibly beneficial for gut health—which is often linked to anxiety. The calming properties come from gentle, aromatic herbs: chamomile and lavender. This combination soothes both the tummy and the mind. Because it’s a food-based product, it’s exceptionally gentle and easy for dogs to digest.

Sourcing & Quality

The Honest Kitchen is renowned for its human-grade ingredients and production standards. All their products are made in the USA in a human food facility. They use dehydrated whole foods to maintain nutrient integrity. This is a brand you can trust implicitly for quality and safety.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

The Honest Kitchen’s Pro Bloom is the perfect choice for a holistic approach to calming. It’s ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs, senior dogs, or picky eaters who turn their noses up at traditional treats. It’s a wonderful way to boost their gut health while providing a mild, soothing effect before bed.

Kradle takes a unique approach to calming supplements with their Bliss Bars. These scored, breakable bars offer a convenient and customizable way to give your dog the right amount of calming support. They are formulated by veterinarians and food scientists to work quickly and effectively.

Ingredients Deep Dive

The core of Kradle’s effectiveness lies in its BotaniTek™ blend, a proprietary formula of calming ingredients. This includes chamomile and passion flower for traditional herbal relaxation. It also features GABA and L-Theanine, which are known to promote a state of calm focus. The unique ingredient is Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb that helps the body manage and adapt to stress over time. This makes the Bliss Bar great for both immediate and long-term support.

Sourcing & Quality

Kradle products are made in the USA and are NASC certified, ensuring they meet high standards for quality, consistency, and safety. Their focus on scientific formulation and rigorous testing makes them a trustworthy choice for pet parents seeking a reliable calming solution.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

The Kradle Calming Bliss Bar is an innovative and effective option for pet parents who want precise control over dosing. It’s especially useful for multi-dog households with different-sized dogs or for dogs whose anxiety levels fluctuate, requiring a little more support on some nights than others.

Pawlife offers a potent, all-natural calming chew that has quickly gained a loyal following. These chews are designed to provide powerful relief from anxiety, stress, and fear, using a vet-approved formula of trusted calming ingredients.

Ingredients Deep Dive

This is another comprehensive formula that combines some of the best calming ingredients available. It starts with a base of chamomile, passion flower, and ginger root to soothe the mind and stomach. It then adds Valerian Root and L-Tryptophan for their proven effects on anxiety and mood. The inclusion of organic hemp seed oil and powder provides an extra layer of powerful, natural calming support, making this a truly well-rounded supplement.

Sourcing & Quality

Pawlife chews are made in the USA in a federally regulated and GMP-certified facility. They focus on using natural ingredients without any corn, soy, or artificial preservatives. Their commitment to a high-potency, natural formula has made them a popular choice among discerning pet owners.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

Pawlife Calming Chews are an excellent choice for dogs who need significant calming support. If your dog’s bedtime anxiety is severe, or if they also suffer from separation anxiety or fear of loud noises, this powerful formula is equipped to provide the relief they need to finally relax and get some rest.

Navigating the world of calming supplements can be overwhelming. With so many options, how do you choose the right one for your furry friend? Here are a few key things to consider to make the best choice for your pup’s peaceful slumber.

Decoding the Ingredient List

The label is your best friend. Look for high-quality, recognizable ingredients. Here are some of the stars of the calming world:

• Chamomile, Passion Flower, Valerian Root: These are classic, gentle herbs known for their relaxing properties.
• L-Theanine & L-Tryptophan: These amino acids help the brain produce calming neurotransmitters like serotonin. They’re great for promoting a sense of well-being.
• Hemp: A popular choice for supporting a calm disposition and easing stress. Look for organic sources.
• Melatonin: This is a hormone that specifically helps regulate sleep-wake cycles. It’s a great choice for treats intended specifically for bedtime.

Soft Chew vs. Crunchy Biscuit

The form of the treat matters! Soft chews are generally more palatable and easier for senior dogs or those with dental problems to eat. They are also often more concentrated with active ingredients. Crunchy biscuits, like the Bocce’s Bakery option, are fantastic for building a routine and can help with dental health, but they are typically less potent.

Dosage and Safety

Always, always, always follow the dosage instructions on the package. Giving too much won’t necessarily be more effective and could cause side effects like lethargy or an upset stomach. Start with the lowest recommended dose for your dog’s weight to see how they react. It’s also a great idea to choose products that are made in GMP-certified facilities and carry the NASC Quality Seal for an extra layer of safety assurance.

When to See a Vet

While calming treats are a wonderful tool, they aren’t a cure-all. If your dog’s anxiety is severe, sudden, or accompanied by other behavioral changes (like aggression or destructive behavior), it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian. They can help rule out any underlying medical issues and recommend a comprehensive behavior modification plan, which may include supplements, training, and in some cases, prescription medication.

How long do calming treats take to work?

Most calming treats take about 30 to 90 minutes to take full effect. However, this can vary depending on the dog’s size, metabolism, and whether they have a full or empty stomach. For ingredients like Ashwagandha or L-Theanine, you might see more consistent results with daily use over a few weeks.

Can I give my dog calming treats every night?

Many calming treats are formulated for daily use and can be a regular part of your bedtime routine. However, it’s always best to check the product’s specific instructions. If a treat contains melatonin, some vets recommend using it for shorter periods or ‘as needed’ rather than indefinitely. When in doubt, have a quick chat with your vet.

Are there any side effects?

When given at the correct dosage, side effects are rare and usually mild. The most common side effect is slight lethargy or drowsiness. Some dogs might experience an upset stomach, especially when first trying a new treat. If you notice any concerning reactions, stop giving the treat and consult your vet.

Can I use these for other stressful situations besides bedtime?

Absolutely! Most of these treats are fantastic for any situation that makes your dog anxious, such as thunderstorms, fireworks, car rides, vet visits, or when you have guests over. Just be sure to time the dose so it kicks in before the stressful event begins.