Dog anxiety medication: how to know if your pup really needs it
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Time to read 6 min
Dog anxiety can be heartbreaking—for both your pet and you. Before turning to medication, it’s important to understand what anxiety looks like in dogs, what triggers it, and when it may be time to ask your vet about treatment. Here’s how to recognize the signs, explore natural remedies, and decide if dog anxiety medication might be the right step.
Feeling nervous now and then is normal for dogs. But when anxiety becomes constant or extreme, it can impact their quality of life. Dogs may feel anxious for many reasons—changes in routine, being left alone, or loud noises like fireworks or thunder.
Spotting the early warning signs can help you take action before things get worse.
Table of Content
Common signs your dog may be anxious Common causes and triggers of dog anxiety When to consider dog anxiety medication Try behavior and lifestyle changes first Signs your dog may need medication Types of dog anxiety medications Are there side effects? The role of your veterinarian Natural and alternative options for dog anxiety FAQs about dog anxiety medication The bottom line
Common signs your dog may be anxious
Anxious dogs show their stress in many ways. Some are subtle, while others are impossible to miss.
Behavioral signs:
Barking, whining, or howling more than usual
Hiding, shaking, or becoming overly clingy
Pacing or acting restless
Aggression or withdrawal
Chewing, digging, or scratching at doors
Accidents in the house
Physical signs:
Heavy panting or drooling
Tail tucked between the legs
Excessive shedding or yawning
Upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhea
If your dog’s behavior changes suddenly, or anxiety symptoms last more than a few days, it’s a good idea to check in with your veterinarian.
Common causes and triggers of dog anxiety
Every dog has unique triggers, but some causes are very common:
Separation anxiety – Fear of being left alone
Loud noises – Fireworks, thunderstorms, or construction
Routine changes – Moving homes or schedule shifts
Lack of exercise or stimulation – Boredom can increase stress
Past trauma – Rescue dogs often carry old fears
Identifying what triggers your dog’s anxiety helps you build a plan to manage it—through training, environmental support, or, if needed, medication.
When to consider dog anxiety medication
Medication isn’t the first step—but for some dogs, it can make life more comfortable. Start with gentle behavior changes and see how your dog responds before exploring prescriptions.
Try behavior and lifestyle changes first
Stick to a consistent daily routine
Create a safe space (like a crate or cozy corner)
Use positive reinforcement training
Try anxiety wraps or calming vests
Provide mental enrichment with puzzles or scent games
These small shifts often make a big difference. But if your dog’s anxiety continues to affect their eating, sleeping, or safety, it may be time to discuss medication.
Signs your dog may need medication
Anxiety remains despite training and structure
Fear leads to self-harm or destruction
Your dog panics during storms, vet visits, or when left alone
Stress is constant and affects your household’s well-being
Medication can help your dog feel calm enough to respond to training and rebuild confidence.
Types of dog anxiety medications
Your veterinarian may recommend one of several prescription options based on your dog’s triggers and health.
SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline) – For chronic or generalized anxiety
TCAs (e.g., clomipramine) – For ongoing anxiety and certain phobias
Benzodiazepines (e.g., alprazolam, diazepam) – Fast-acting relief for stressful events
Sileo (dexmedetomidine gel) – FDA-approved for noise sensitivity
Gabapentin or trazodone – Helpful for temporary anxiety or to support other medications
These medications work best as part of a larger care plan that includes behavior modification and consistent routines.
Are there side effects?
Most dog anxiety medications are well-tolerated when prescribed correctly. Still, mild side effects can occur, such as:
Digestive upset (loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea)
Drowsiness or lethargy
Restlessness or agitation
Always talk to your vet before starting or stopping any medication. Never give your dog human anxiety drugs—they can be dangerous or even toxic.
The role of your veterinarian
Your veterinarian is your best ally when managing dog anxiety. They’ll evaluate your dog’s symptoms, rule out medical causes, and create a plan tailored to your pup’s needs. Regular check-ins help track progress and fine-tune the approach—ensuring your dog stays safe, comfortable, and happy.
Natural and alternative options for dog anxiety
Not every anxious dog needs medication. Many find relief from natural remedies and training.
Here are a few to consider (with your vet’s approval):
Calming pheromone diffusers like Adaptil mimic natural comforting scents
Supplements with L-theanine, melatonin, or tryptophan promote relaxation
CBD oil (such as PawOrigins® Happy-Furever™ CBD Oil) offers a gentle, natural way to reduce stress—always vet-approved and third-party tested
Herbal aids like chamomile or valerian root (pet-specific formulations only)
These alternatives often work best for mild or situational anxiety, especially when paired with positive training methods.
FAQs about dog anxiety medication
1. How do I know if my dog needs anxiety medication?
If your dog’s anxiety disrupts daily life or safety despite training and structure, talk to your vet about medication options.
2. Can I give my dog human medication?
Never. Human anxiety meds can be toxic to dogs unless specifically prescribed by a vet.
3. How long does it take for medication to work?
Some meds, like SSRIs, may take several weeks. Others, like Sileo or benzodiazepines, work within hours.
4. Are natural remedies effective?
Yes—especially for mild anxiety. Combining calming supplements, pheromones, and consistent training can bring lasting improvement.
The bottom line
Every dog experiences anxiety differently. Some respond well to training and structure, while others need extra support from medication or supplements. The best plan combines compassion, consistency, and veterinary guidance. With the right approach, your anxious dog can feel calmer, happier, and more confident every day.
Dr. Audrey Negrelli, Veterinarian & Wellness Advisor, PawOrigins®
Dr. Audrey Negrelli is committed to helping pets live healthier, happier lives through compassionate, science-based care. With years of veterinary experience in preventive medicine and wellness, she ensures that every PawOrigins® resource supports both safety and quality. Her mission is simple: to empower pet parents and give families more joyful, healthy years with their animals.
How soon can I expect results?
The response time to CBD Happy-Furever™ can indeed differ from one dog to another, as it is a natural supplement that dogs may need time to adapt to. Many dog parents have observed noticeable positive changes in their pets' behavior and well-being within just a few days of starting the supplement. Common early signs of the supplement taking effect include better sleep, a calmer demeanor, and an increased appetite—all indicators of a content and healthy dog.
As the weeks go by, further enhancements in your dog's health may become evident. You may notice a shinier coat, a reduction in bodily pains, and an increase in energy, evident from bursts of playful excitement like the "zoomies" during fetch.
It's crucial to acknowledge that, like humans, some dogs may require a longer period to fully benefit from natural supplements like CBD oil. Patience is key, and during this time, it's also important to continue reinforcing good behavior.
When CBD helps to bring your dog to a more tranquil state, it's an opportune moment to introduce new habits and work on phasing out any undesirable behaviors. Remember, while CBD can support your dog's well-being, it is not a substitute for consistent training and conditioning.
Keep an eye out for signs of improvement; sometimes, they may not be immediately obvious. Documenting your dog's journey with videos and photos can help you recognize progress that you might otherwise overlook.
Furthermore, improvements might be taking place internally, such as enhanced immune function or reduced inflammation, which aren't always visible. The absence of health issues can often be a silent testament to the efficacy of the supplement, reflecting your dog's overall health and vitality. So, while some benefits of CBD are seen, others are felt—a healthy dog is a happy dog, inside and out.
Will these products make my pet 'high'?
Absolutely not! It's not possible for dogs to get 'high' off our CBD as they contain less than 0.3% THC, which won't cause any intoxicating effects. However, your pup might seem a lot more relaxed, and might be sleeping more - which is a healthy sign! Keep in mind that young puppies and senior dogs should be sleeping for up to 18-20 hours of their day, while adult dogs sleep approximately 16 hours.
The lack of quality sleep can affect their health and anxiety in many ways.
CBD can make older pooches act ‘puppy-like’ and nervous young pups feel calm. The ingredients that makeup hemp contribute to a balanced mood, resulting in a sense of relaxation for your pet.
