OTC Anxiety Meds for Dogs
OTC anxiety medications for dogs offer a variety of natural and safe solutions to help calm pets during stressful situations. Products like CBD oil, melatonin, and calming supplements containing L-theanine or valerian root are commonly used to manage mild to moderate anxiety. Additionally, calming pheromone sprays and diffusers, such as Adaptil, provide a non-ingestible option to soothe nervous dogs.

Thundershirts, which apply gentle pressure, are also popular for reducing anxiety. However, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian before starting any new OTC treatment to ensure the chosen option is suitable for your dog’s needs.
What Can I Give My Dog OTC For Anxiety?

Dogs can have these 3 type of anxieties:
- General fear
- Separation Anxiety
- Age Related stress
- Common signs of anxiety are too much barking, running, shaking, and dangerous behavior which indicates stress level
Here are the best OTC medication for dogs with their benefits and how to use them.
- CBD Oil or Treats
How to use it properly:
CBD (cannabidiol) interacts with the endocannabinoid system in dogs to promote a calming effect.
Advantages:
It is a natural option that’s often used to manage anxiety, as well as pain and inflammation.
Usage:
Always choose a product specifically designed for pets, and consult your vet about proper dosing.
Best brands to buy from:
Honest Paws, HolistaPet, and Pet Releaf.
- L-Theanine (Anxitane)
How to use it properly:
L-Theanine is an amino acid that promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety by stimulating calming brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine.
Advantages:
It is a non-sedative option that doesn’t make the dog drowsy.
Usage:
Normally, available in chewable tablets and often recommended for dogs with mild to moderate anxiety.
Best brands to buy from:
Virbac Anxitane, Composure Pro.
- Melatonin
How to use it properly:
Melatonin is a natural hormone that regulates sleep, but it also has calming effects in dogs.
Advantages:
It is useful for dogs that suffer from anxiety-related insomnia or for calming them during high-stress events.
Usage:
Available in tablets and chews, melatonin is usually used before an event known to trigger anxiety.
Best brands to buy from:
Nature’s Bounty Melatonin, Pet Wellbeing Stress Gold.
- Adaptil (DAP) Diffuser or Collar
How to use it properly:
Adaptil contains synthetic versions of the calming pheromones that mother dogs naturally release to calm their puppies.
Advantages:
A great non-ingestible option that can create a calm environment for dogs, especially useful in homes or during travel.
Usage:
It comes in a collar, spray, or plug-in diffuser form. Use it in areas where the dog spends most of its time.
You can buy it from Adaptil.
- Zylkene
How to use it properly:
Zylkene contains a milk protein called casein, which has calming properties that reduce anxiety in pets.
Advantages:
It is a natural product, free from chemicals, and non-sedative.
Usage:
Zylkene is given as a capsule and can be mixed with food.
You can buy it from Zylkene.
What Is Most Effective Calming Aid For Dogs?

Non-medical treatments can be as follows:
- You can change their atmosphere
- You can use Pheromone diffusers
- Wear them compression clothes
- Must avoid things that trigger them
You can also try L-theanine, chamomile, valerian root, and CBD are specifically known to calm your pet quickly when administered in a calming treat. They are known to be the best aid in town.
What Is The Best OTC Sedative For Dogs?
While some already discussed above, Chamonile or Valerian Root, Thundershirt, Calming sprays, Bach flower remedies are known to very popular OTC medicine dogs with anxiety.
What Can I Give My Dog To Stop Her Anxiety?
- To calm your dog’s anxiety, you can try to give them calming supplements like L-theanine, melatonin, or Zylkene
- Use pheromone products like Adaptil (Dog Appeasing Pheromone), which provides a safe space with a favorite chew toy.
- Make sure to give them regular exercise; however, for serious anxiety, it is important to consult your veterinarian about prescription medications like fluoxetine, clomipramine, or Trazodone.
Can I Give My Dog Melatonin for Anxiety?
Melatonin can help improve anxiety, fear, stress, sleep issues, and hormone problems in dogs. The dose of melatonin is determined by a dog’s weight, or 0.1 milligrams of melatonin for each kilogram of the dog’s weight. Always consult with a veterinarian before giving a dog melatonin.