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How to Calm a Nervous Dog Naturally with Home Remedies
Introduction
- Just like humans, dogs can experience stress, anxiety, and nervousness in various situations.
- Triggers like loud noises, separation, travel, or new environments can make dogs anxious.
- Instead of using medications, there are natural remedies that can help soothe your dog.
- In this guide, we’ll explore safe, effective, and natural ways to calm a nervous dog at home.
1. Understanding Why Your Dog Is Nervous
Before using home remedies, it’s essential to identify the cause of your dog’s anxiety:
Separation Anxiety – Stress when left alone.
Loud Noises – Fireworks, thunderstorms, or vacuum cleaners.
New Environments – Moving to a new home or meeting strangers.
Travel Anxiety – Car rides or vet visits.
Past Trauma – Abuse, abandonment, or shelter experiences.
Each type of anxiety may require different calming techniques.
2. Natural Home Remedies to Calm Your Nervous Dog
1. Use Lavender or Chamomile Aromatherapy
- How It Works: The scent of lavender and chamomile has a calming effect on dogs.
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How to Use:
- Add a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser.
- Dilute with water and lightly spray on their bedding.
- Apply a drop to your hands and let your dog sniff.
Tip: Always use dog-safe essential oils and avoid direct contact with their skin.
2. Try a Homemade Herbal Tea for Dogs
- Herbs like chamomile, valerian root, and passionflowerare natural relaxants.
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How to Make It:
- Steep 1 tsp of dried chamomile in hot water for 5 minutes.
- Let it cool completely.
- Give a teaspoon for small dogs and a tablespoon for larger breeds.
Safe and effective for reducing stress and promoting sleep.
Essentials for Your Newly Adopted Pet
Welcoming a shelter pet into your life is a beautiful journey. Here are some handpicked items to help your new friend feel safe, loved, and right at home:
3. Give Your Dog a Calming Massage
- Massaging specific pressure pointscan help reduce stress.
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Focus on:
- The ears– Gently rub the base of the ears.
- The chest– Slow, circular motions.
- The back– Use long, gentle strokes.
Tip: Use coconut oil or calming essential oils for extra relaxation.
4. Use a Weighted Blanket or Anxiety Wrap
- A snug-fitting blanket or anxiety vest provides gentle pressure, mimicking a hug.
- Works well for dogs scared of thunderstorms, fireworks, or loud noises.
- You can also DIY a wrap using a soft scarf or a fitted T-shirt.
Calms dogs instantly by creating a sense of security.
5. Play Relaxing Music or White Noise
- Soft classical musicor nature sounds can reduce anxiety.
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How to Use:
- Play soothing piano or harp music when leaving the house.
- Use white noise machines to block outside noises.
Best for separation anxiety and nervous dogs.
6. Offer a Frozen Lick Mat with Natural Ingredients
- Licking helps dogs relax by stimulating calming hormones.
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How to Make It:
- Spread peanut butter, plain yogurt, or pumpkin puree on a lick mat.
- Freeze it for extra calming effect.
Keeps dogs distracted and reduces stress.
7. Use CBD Oil for Dogs (Vet-Approved)
- CBD oil from hempis a natural relaxant for dogs.
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Benefits:
Helps with anxiety, fear, and restlessness.
Supports better sleep. - Dosage: Follow vet recommendations for safety.
Always use pet-safe, THC-free CBD oil.
8. Exercise and Mental Stimulation
- A tired dog is a calm dog!
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Activities to reduce anxiety:
Daily walks – At least 30 minutes.
Interactive toys – Puzzle feeders or snuffle mats.
Training sessions – Engages their mind and reduces stress.
Helps release pent-up energy and promotes relaxation.
3. Foods That Help Calm a Nervous Dog
Certain foods have natural calming properties:
Pumpkin – Supports digestion and relaxation.
Blueberries – High in antioxidants that reduce stress.
Turkey – Contains tryptophan, a natural relaxant.
Oatmeal – Helps stabilize mood.
Tip: Add these to their diet for natural stress relief.
4. When to Seek Professional Help
- If your dog’s anxiety is severe or worsening, consult a vet or animal behaviorist.
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Signs your dog needs extra help:
Constant pacing, whining, or destructive behavior.
Loss of appetite or excessive drooling.
Aggression or self-harm (licking/chewing paws excessively).
Conclusion
Calming a nervous dog naturally is possible with the right home remedies.
Lavender aromatherapy
Calming herbal teas
Soothing massages
Weighted blankets or wraps
Relaxing music and exercise
Try these gentle, holistic solutions to help your furry friend feel safe and relaxed!
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