Natural calming dog treats offer a gentle, effective way to support nervous and anxious dogs through stressful situations. These specially formulated treats use natural ingredients like chamomile, lavender, and L-Tryptophan to help dogs relax without sedation. From fireworks and vet visits to separation anxiety and travel, calming treats can provide soothing relief when your dog needs it most.
At Company of Animals, we’ve spent over 40 years at the forefront of dog behaviour and training. Founded by Dr Roger Mugford, a world-renowned animal psychologist, our Pet Centre in Chertsey, Surrey, has been a hub of expertise, research, and hands-on training. Under the leadership of Dr Emily Mugford, a veterinary surgeon with extensive experience in the pet industry, we continue to develop products that reflect modern, science-backed approaches to canine wellbeing. Our Coachi Natural Calming Treats are expertly formulated to nurture your dog’s peace of mind, offering a gentle solution that helps strengthen the bond between you and your pet.
Enriching pets’ lives – Devoted to the physical and mental wellbeing of companion animals.
What Are Calming Dog Treats and How Do They Work?
Calming dog treats are specially designed supplements that contain natural ingredients known for their relaxing properties. Unlike prescription medications, these treats work gently with your dog’s natural body chemistry to promote feelings of calm and relaxation.
The science behind calming treats centres on specific compounds that interact with your dog’s nervous system. Ingredients like chamomile and lavender have been used for centuries to ease tension in both humans and animals. L-Tryptophan, an essential amino acid, serves as a precursor to serotonin – the neurotransmitter that regulates mood and promotes feelings of wellbeing.
When a dog faces a stressful situation, their body releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones trigger the fight-or-flight response, causing physical symptoms such as panting, pacing, and restlessness. Natural calming ingredients help to counterbalance this stress response, supporting the body’s natural calming mechanisms without causing drowsiness or altering your dog’s personality.
Calming treats work best when given before anticipated stressful events, allowing time for the natural ingredients to take effect. They’re not instant sedatives but gentle supporters of your dog’s emotional resilience. Combined with positive training methods and environmental management, calming treats form part of a holistic approach to managing canine anxiety.
Benefits of Natural Calming Treats for Dogs
Natural calming treats offer several advantages for dogs experiencing stress or anxiety. Understanding these benefits helps you make informed decisions about supporting your dog’s emotional wellbeing.
Supporting Dogs Through Stressful Situations
Fireworks displays, thunderstorms, and loud noises can send even confident dogs into panic. Giving Coachi Natural Calming Treats 30-60 minutes before anticipated events helps dogs cope with these stressful situations. Vet visits and grooming appointments often cause stress due to unfamiliar environments, strange smells, and handling by strangers. Offering treats beforehand can make these experiences more manageable.
Travel anxiety affects many dogs, whether they’re facing a short car journey or a longer trip. The motion, confinement, and unfamiliar surroundings can be overwhelming. Social situations also challenge some dogs. Meeting new dogs or people, attending training classes, or dealing with visitors at home can cause tension in anxious dogs. For all these scenarios, Coachi Natural Calming Treats given 30-60 minutes beforehand can help take the edge off anxiety, making the experience more manageable for both dog and owner.
Promoting Restful Sleep and Relaxation
Dogs need quality sleep to maintain physical health and emotional balance. Anxious dogs often struggle to settle, experiencing disrupted sleep patterns that exacerbate stress. The natural ingredients in Coachi Natural Calming Treats can help promote relaxation, making it easier for dogs to settle down after an active day or stressful event.
Dogs recovering from surgery or dealing with restricted movement due to injury often experience stress. At our Hydrotherapy & Physiotherapy Centre, we work with dogs who need gentle, supportive exercise to regain strength and confidence. Coachi Natural Calming Treats can support these dogs’ emotional wellbeing during their recovery journey.
When to Use Calming Treats
Knowing when to offer Coachi Natural Calming Treats helps maximise their effectiveness. Timing matters because natural ingredients need time to work through your dog’s system.
Before Predictable Stressful Events
For anticipated events like fireworks displays, grooming appointments, or travel, you can start preparing your dog in advance. While Coachi Natural Calming Treats can be given 30-60 minutes before an event to allow the natural ingredients to take effect, you may benefit from using a loading dose approach for optimal results.
When you know a stressful event is approaching, consider giving the recommended daily amount for 2-3 days beforehand. This loading period helps you refine your dog’s individual dosing requirements and allows the calming ingredients to build up in their system. New Year’s Eve and Bonfire Night are prime examples where advance planning can make a significant difference.
Recommended Daily Allowance:
- Small dogs (5-10kg): 1-2 treats
- Medium dogs (10-20kg): 2-4 treats
- Large dogs (20-30kg): 4-6 treats
- X-Large dogs (30-40kg): 6-8 treats
Our recommended feeding guide is simply a starting point. Every dog responds differently, so you may need to adjust the amount according to how your individual dog reacts. Some dogs may need slightly more support during particularly challenging events, while others may respond well to the standard dose.
By observing your dog’s response over the loading period, you’ll gain valuable insight into what works best for them, allowing you to provide more effective support when they need it most.
During Ongoing Anxiety
Some dogs experience chronic anxiety that affects their daily life. Separation anxiety, noise sensitivity, and general nervousness can benefit from regular use of Coachi Natural Calming Treats as part of a broader management plan.
Dogs in rescue centres or those transitioning to new homes often face prolonged periods of stress. Coachi Natural Calming Treats can support these dogs while they adjust to new routines and surroundings. However, chronic anxiety always warrants professional assessment to identify and address underlying causes.
As Part of a Training Program
Coachi Natural Calming Treats work well alongside positive reinforcement training. When teaching your dog to cope with previously frightening situations, keeping their stress levels, manageable makes learning possible. Pair Coachi Natural Calming Treats with counter-conditioning exercises, gradually building your dog’s confidence.
Our dog training classes at the Pet Centre use reward-based methods to help dogs build confidence. For anxious dogs attending their first group class, Coachi Natural Calming Treats given beforehand can help them feel more comfortable in this new environment.
Natural Ingredients That Make a Difference
The effectiveness of calming treats depends entirely on the quality and combination of their ingredients. Understanding what goes into these treats helps you choose products that genuinely support your dog’s wellbeing.
Chamomile
Chamomile has been used for centuries as a gentle relaxant for both humans and animals. This daisy-like herb contains compounds that interact with receptors in the brain, promoting feelings of calm and reducing tension.
For dogs, chamomile offers a mild, natural way to ease nervousness. It’s particularly helpful for dogs who experience digestive upset alongside anxiety, as chamomile has soothing properties for the gastrointestinal system. Many dogs who pace, pant, or whine when stressed show improved relaxation when given treats containing chamomile.
Lavender
Lavender’s calming properties extend beyond its pleasant scent. This aromatic herb contains compounds that affect the nervous system, reducing agitation and promoting relaxation. Studies on both humans and animals have shown that lavender can help lower heart rate and reduce stress-related behaviours.
When included in dog treats, lavender works systemically rather than just through aromatherapy. The plant compounds are absorbed and metabolised, supporting the body’s natural calming mechanisms. Dogs who struggle to settle or who become hypervigilant in stressful situations often respond well to lavender’s gentle effects.
L-Tryptophan
L-Tryptophan stands out as one of the most scientifically supported ingredients in calming supplements. This essential amino acid serves as a building block for serotonin, the neurotransmitter crucial for mood regulation and emotional wellbeing. Dogs cannot produce L-Tryptophan naturally and must obtain it through their diet.
When L-Tryptophan levels increase, the brain can produce more serotonin, helping to maintain emotional balance. This is the same mechanism that makes certain foods naturally calming. In supplement form, L-Tryptophan provides targeted support for dogs prone to anxiety, helping them maintain more stable moods.
The amino acid also plays a role in melatonin production, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles. This makes L-Tryptophan particularly valuable for dogs who struggle to settle at night or who have disrupted sleep patterns due to stress.
Why Natural Ingredients Matter
Natural ingredients offer several advantages over synthetic alternatives. They work with your dog’s body rather than overriding natural processes. The gentle action means fewer concerns about side effects or dependency. Natural compounds from plants like chamomile and lavender have been used safely for generations, with established safety profiles.
Coachi Natural Calming Treats combine chamomile, lavender, and L-Tryptophan in carefully balanced proportions. This expert formulation reflects our decades of experience in canine behaviour and wellbeing, creating a product that’s both effective and safe for regular use.
How to Choose the Right Calming Treats
Not all calming treats are created equal. Selecting high-quality products requires attention to ingredients, manufacturing standards, and your individual dog’s needs.
Reading the Ingredients List
Start by examining the ingredients label carefully. Look for specific natural calming compounds rather than vague terms like “calming blend.” Quality products clearly list active ingredients like chamomile, lavender, and L-Tryptophan with their amounts where appropriate.
Avoid treats with unnecessary fillers, artificial colours, or excessive preservatives. Your dog doesn’t need these additions, and they can sometimes cause digestive upset or allergic reactions. Natural preservatives like vitamin E (tocopherols) are preferable to synthetic alternatives.
Check for potential allergens if your dog has known sensitivities. Many calming treats are grain-free to accommodate dogs with wheat or corn sensitivities, but always verify the ingredients match your dog’s dietary requirements.
Considering Your Dog’s Size and Age
Dosage matters when it comes to calming treats. Products should provide clear feeding guidelines based on your dog’s weight. Larger dogs typically need more of the active ingredients to achieve the same effect as smaller dogs. Check packaging or the manufactures website for age and weight guidelines to ensure you’re offering an appropriate amount.
Puppies have different nutritional needs and sensitivities compared to adult dogs. While some calming treats are suitable for puppies, always verify the minimum recommended age. Young dogs going through fear periods may benefit from gentle calming support, but their developing systems require products specifically formulated with their needs in mind.
Senior dogs may have health conditions that affect how they process certain ingredients. If your older dog takes medications or has liver or kidney issues, consult your vet before introducing calming treats to their routine.
Quality and Manufacturing Standards
Choose brands with transparent manufacturing practices. Reputable companies clearly state where their products are made and provide information about quality control measures. Look for treats manufactured to high standards with rigorous testing protocols.
Company of Animals has spent over four decades developing products that reflect the latest understanding of canine behaviour and wellbeing. Our expertise, combined with our commitment to quality, ensures that every Coachi treat meets exacting standards.
Palatability and Acceptance
Even the most effective calming treat won’t help if your dog refuses to eat it. Most dogs readily accept treat-format supplements, but individual preferences vary. Soft, chewy treats tend to be more appealing than hard biscuits for many dogs.
If you’re trying calming treats for the first time, start with a small package to ensure your dog enjoys them before investing in larger quantities. Most dogs find the natural flavours of quality treats highly palatable.
Additional Tips for Nervous and Anxious Dogs
Calming treats work best as part of a comprehensive approach to managing canine anxiety. Consider these additional strategies to support your dog’s emotional wellbeing.
Read More: https://companyofanimals.com/uk/separation-anxiety-in-dogs/
Create a Safe Space
Every dog needs a place where they feel completely secure. This might be a crate covered with a blanket, a quiet room, or a cosy bed in a low-traffic area. Make this space available before stressful events, allowing your dog to retreat when they feel overwhelmed.
Add comfort items like familiar blankets or clothing with your scent. Some dogs benefit from calming music or white noise that masks frightening sounds. Never force your dog into their safe space – it should always be their choice to use it.
Maintain Consistent Routines
Dogs thrive on predictability. Keeping to regular feeding times, walks, and play sessions provides reassurance, especially during periods of change or stress. When life gets chaotic, maintaining these routines shows your dog that despite changes, their core needs remain met.
Your own emotional state significantly influences your dog. Dogs are remarkably attuned to human emotions and will pick up on your anxiety or tension. Staying calm and matter-of-fact during stressful situations helps your dog feel more secure. It’s perfectly fine to comfort and reassure your dog when they’re anxious – contrary to outdated beliefs, you cannot reinforce fear by providing comfort. Your presence and gentle reassurance can help your dog feel safer during difficult moments.
Provide Physical and Mental Exercise
Regular exercise helps burn off stress hormones and promotes natural relaxation. Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, improving mood and reducing anxiety. Most dogs need daily walks, but the amount and intensity should match your dog’s age, breed, and health status.
Mental stimulation is equally important. Puzzle toys, scent games, and training sessions engage your dog’s brain, providing positive outlets for nervous energy. A mentally tired dog is often a calmer dog.
Our Coachi training toys and interactive products provide enrichment opportunities that keep dogs engaged while building confidence. Physical and mental exercise, combined with Coachi Natural Calming Treats when needed, creates a balanced approach to managing anxiety.
Use Positive Training Methods
Modern training relies on positive reinforcement rather than punishment or force. When helping your dog cope with fears, reward confident behaviour and create positive associations with previously frightening things. This might mean pairing treats with the sound of distant fireworks or rewarding calm behaviour when meeting new people.
Dog training equipment like training lines and recall leads gives you safe control while working on confidence-building exercises. A treat pouch keeps rewards readily accessible, allowing you to mark and reward calm behaviour instantly.
Know When to Seek Professional Help
Some anxiety issues require expert intervention. If your dog’s anxiety severely impacts their quality of life, causes destructive behaviour, or leads to aggression, professional assessment is essential. Behaviour consultations can identify underlying causes and develop tailored modification plans.
At the Company of Animals Pet Centre, our expert-led behaviour consultations (by veterinary referral only) help identify and address the root causes of stress, including any underlying medical issues. With over 40 years of experience in canine behaviour, our team provides the expertise and support needed to help anxious dogs thrive.
Final Thoughts
Coachi Natural Calming Treats offer genuine support for dogs facing stress and anxiety. Expertly formulated by Company of Animals with over 40 years of canine behaviour expertise, our treats provide a gentle way to help your dog navigate challenging situations while maintaining their natural personality and zest for life.
The key to success lies in understanding that Coachi Natural Calming Treats are tools that work best when combined with proper training, environmental management, and attention to your dog’s overall wellbeing. By addressing both the symptoms and causes of anxiety, you give your dog the best chance of developing confidence and resilience.
Coachi Natural Calming Treats reflect Company of Animals’ decades of expertise in canine behaviour and wellbeing. Infused with chamomile, lavender, and L-Tryptophan, these treats provide soothing relief for nervous moments while supporting the special bond between you and your dog.
Whether you’re preparing for fireworks season, supporting a rescue dog through their transition, or helping your companion cope with everyday stresses, the right combination of calming treats, positive training, and patient understanding can make a genuine difference.
Explore our complete range of Coachi training tools and treats to support your dog’s training and wellbeing journey. For dogs requiring expert behavioural support, discover more about the services available at our Pet Centre in Chertsey, Surrey.
FAQs About Calming Dog Treats
Do calming dog treats actually work?
Yes, Coachi Natural Calming Treats are highly effective at reducing anxiety in dogs. Our expertly formulated treats contain evidence-based ingredients – chamomile, lavender, and L-Tryptophan – in carefully measured doses that have been proven to promote relaxation without causing sedation. Developed by Company of Animals with over 40 years of canine behaviour expertise, our treats work with your dog’s natural body chemistry to support emotional wellbeing. For best results, give Coachi Natural Calming Treats 30-60 minutes before stressful events, and combine them with positive training methods and environmental management for a comprehensive approach to anxiety.
What ingredients should I look for in natural calming treats?
Coachi Natural Calming Treats contain the three most effective natural calming ingredients: chamomile (a gentle natural relaxant), lavender (which reduces agitation and promotes calm), and L-Tryptophan (an amino acid that supports serotonin production for mood regulation). These ingredients have established safety profiles and scientific backing for their calming effects. We’ve carefully formulated our treats to provide optimal doses of each active ingredient, ensuring effectiveness without unnecessary fillers, artificial colours, or excessive preservatives. Our transparent ingredient list means you know exactly what you’re giving your dog, and our natural formula is suitable for dogs with common food sensitivities.
Are calming treats safe for daily use?
Yes, Coachi Natural Calming Treats are safe for daily use when following the feeding guidelines on the packaging. We’ve formulated our treats with carefully balanced natural ingredients that work gently with your dog’s body, making them suitable for regular use as part of your dog’s daily routine. Many dogs benefit from daily calming support, particularly those with ongoing nervousness or anxiety. Our treats contain chamomile, lavender, and L-Tryptophan in safe, effective doses that support long-term emotional wellbeing without causing dependency or adverse effects. However, if your dog experiences sudden behavioural changes or severe anxiety, we recommend consulting a veterinarian or qualified behaviourist to rule out underlying medical causes and develop a comprehensive management plan.
When should I give my dog calming treats?
Give Coachi Natural Calming Treats 30-60 minutes before anticipated stressful events like fireworks, vet visits, car journeys, or social situations. This timing allows our natural ingredients to take effect before your dog encounters the stressor, helping them feel calmer and more confident. For dogs with ongoing anxiety, you can incorporate Coachi Natural Calming Treats into their daily routine at regular times. The feeding guidelines on our packaging and website provide clear dosage recommendations based on your dog’s weight, ensuring safe and effective support for their emotional wellbeing.
Can puppies have calming dog treats?
Coachi Natural Calming Treats are suitable for puppies. Young dogs going through fear periods (typically around 8-10 weeks and again at 6-14 months) can benefit from gentle calming support during this crucial developmental stage.
Our natural formulation with chamomile, lavender, and L-Tryptophan is gentle enough for developing systems when used according to our feeding guidelines. Always check the weight and age recommendations to ensure appropriate dosing. If your puppy shows signs of anxiety, we recommend consulting with a qualified trainer or behaviourist to address the issue comprehensively, using Coachi Natural Calming Treats as part of a broader support plan.
Who are Dr Roger Mugford and Dr Emily Mugford?
Dr Roger Mugford is a world-renowned animal psychologist and founder of Company of Animals. For over 40 years, he has pioneered reward-based training methods and developed tools that transformed how people understand and work with dogs. His approach emphasises positive reinforcement and practical application rather than outdated dominance theories.
Dr Emily Mugford became CEO of Company of Animals in 2024, continuing her father’s legacy. As a veterinary surgeon with over 20 years’ experience in small animal practice, Emily brings deep understanding of both pets and their owners. Her veterinary background means she evaluates every product through the lens of animal welfare first – ensuring each tool is designed to strengthen the bond between pets and their families rather than simply solving problems. Emily is also known for rescuing animals throughout her veterinary career, demonstrating the genuine care and commitment that drives Company of Animals’ approach to pet wellbeing.