The Best Calming Treats For Hyper Dogs, According To A Vet
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byMargeaux Baulch Klein
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When it comes to calming down a hyper dog, there are a lot of choices pet parents might want to try before going the prescription route, such as calming dog beds or collars. However, if your pup is food-motivated, the best calming treats for hyper dogs may be a great option.
According to Dr. Sara Ochoa, DVM, a small and exotic animal veterinarian in Texas and a veterinary consultant for doglab.com, calming treats are ideal for dogs who are easily excited, hyperactive, or who suffer from anxiety (usually from separation or thunderstorms). When shopping for a calming treat, there are certain ingredients dog owners may want to look for.
"Common things found in calming dog treats are vitamin B1 and L-tryptophan. L-tryptophan is found in turkey. This is the main reason we are so tired after Thanksgiving dinner," Dr. Ochoa told Bustle by email.
Natural sleep aids like melatonin and valerian root, as well as L-theanine, an amino acid that is often found in green tea, are other ingredients that experts believe have calming properties.
While dogs should not experience any side effects from consuming calming treats, Dr. Ochoa warns that feeding too many treats could cause diarrhea. That's why it's important to heed the daily serving sizes that are listed on the treat's packaging. Typically, the serving sizes are based on a dog's weight.