Do Calming Treats Really Work For Dogs?
If your pup turns into a shaky mess during thunderstorms, hates being left alone, or just has a case of the zoomies that won’t quit — calming treats for dogs might sound like the dream solution. But do they actually work?
Short answer: yes, they can. But just like with humans, what works depends on your dog, their stress triggers, and how the treats are used.
Let’s dig in.
What are calming treats for dogs, anyway?
Calming treats are tasty little bites (usually packed with ingredients like L-tryptophan, hemp seed, chamomile, or valerian root) designed to help settle your dog’s nerves. Unlike sedatives or medications, these treats are all about gentle support — relaxing your dog without knocking them out.
Some treats are designed for daily use, while others are best given about an hour before a stressful event (like vet trips, car rides or fireworks night).
When are calming treats most effective?
They tend to work best for mild to moderate anxiety — things like:
● Barking when you leave the room
● Pacing or panting during storms
● Whining or licking their lips when guests arrive
● Struggling to settle down in new environments
If your dog has more severe anxiety (especially if it leads to destructive behaviour), calming treats can still help, but you might want to combine them with other support like training, routine tweaks, or guidance from a vet.
What kind of calming treats should I use?
There are two main types:
1. Occasional use: Great for when you know stress is coming — like a vet visit or a long car journey. Just give the treats around 30–60 minutes beforehand.
2. Daily routine: These are best if your dog deals with daily stress or has ongoing anxiety. When used consistently, the natural ingredients can build up and deliver better long-term results.
At Popcorn Paws, our Tranquil Tails calming treats combine hemp seed, ashwagandha, chamomile, and more to support both short-term chill and long-term wellbeing.
How often should I give calming treats?
This depends on the product, your dog’s size, and what’s going on in their world.
For daily calming support, stick to the recommended dose on the pack and aim to give them at the same time each day. If it’s a one-off stressful event, give the treats in advance (around an hour before works well).
Some dogs might need a little more on big days — always follow the product guidelines or speak with your vet if you’re unsure.
So, do they actually work?
Most of the time — yes. Natural calming treats won’t flip a switch, but with regular use and the right ingredients, they can:
● Reduce signs of stress and nervousness
● Improve sleep and restlessness
● Help your dog stay calm in everyday situations
● Support a better quality of life (for them and for you)
Just remember: consistency is key. Give it a couple of weeks and keep an eye on their behaviour. Most owners start seeing results within 30 days.
Looking for calming treats that dogs actually enjoy?
Try Tranquil Tails by Popcorn Paws – naturally calming, drool-worthy, and stuffed with the good stuff.
We offer delicious and nutritious dog treats that help your little friend live a healthy life. Using high quality ingredients, we guarantee offering your pup the best treats. For more information, you can explore our website today.