How to Use Ashwagandha and Adaptogens for Dog Anxiety?
How to Use Ashwagandha and Adaptogens for Dog Anxiety? If your dog shakes when a thunderstorm rolls through, paces back and forth when you reach for your car keys, or runs for cover when the fireworks start, you’re definitely not the only one!
Doggy anxiety is by far the most common canine behavior problem among pet parents and the rate has increased exponentially in recent years.
The problem?
- Emerging science is showing that natural alternatives such as adaptogenic herbs (like ashwagandha!) can be remarkably powerful when it comes to naturally reducing anxiety in dogs.
- That said, giving these herbs to your pup comes with certain rules and best practices, so let’s dive into the science of using them effectively for your canine pal.
- Here’s what you need to know about adaptogenic supplements for anxious dogs, with research, science-backed information and veterinarian insights to get you started.
Understanding Canine Anxiety More Than Just “Bad Behavior”
Anxiety in dogs isn’t a sign of behavioral problems or ‘bad behavior.’ It’s actually an overwhelming physical response to perceived stress and fear, which stimulates your dog’s HPA axis to pump their body full of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, thus raising their blood pressure, blood sugar, and heart rate. The most common sources for a dog’s stress and anxiety are:
Separation from you (separation anxiety increased a staggering 700% from 2020 to 2022 as people were suddenly home a lot more and then returned to working away from the house) …
How to Use Ashwagandha and Adaptogens for Dog Anxiety?
“Adaptogens are a class of medicinal plants/fungi which are believed to stimulate or enhance the organism’s non-specific resistance to environmental physical, chemical, biological stress.” In lieu of suppressing activity like a sleeping pill does, adaptogens work with your physiology to assist your capacity to adapt better with ongoing exposure.
Ashwagandha (With an ia somnifera)
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) – 2020’s greatest adaptogen Possibly the most popular and well researched adaptogen currently available, Ashwagandha has been part of Ayurvedic Medicine for more than 4000 years.
Ashwagandha has had extensive studies in humans and more recently, researchers in a 2020 double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior, conducted a study using the Ashwagandha root extract KSM-66 on 24 dogs exhibiting signs of stress and anxiety. Urine Cortisol/Creatinine ratio, a sensitive measure for stress, was reduced by Ashwagandha (p = 0.0005) and fear/anxiety scores, assessed using the Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire, were also significantly decreased (p=0.03).
In addition,ashwagandha reduced pain intensity and pain interference(p<0.0001), which is vital, because often the cause of stress related-behavior, like aggression, is pain.
The treatment was well tolerated and there were no adverse events. Additional research in a respected peer-reviewed veterinary journal, Frontiers in Veterinary Science (2024) demonstrated that ashwagandha root extract positively impacted the gut microbiome by increasing healthy short-chain fatty acids and supported overall gut health (since the gut is a major regulator of emotions.
Other Adaptogens and Calming Compounds
Here are a few natural remedies that may work besides ashwagandha:
- Rhodiola rosea: An adaptogenic herb which helps your dog’s body to combat stress.
- Holy basil (Tulsi): Supports adrenal health and acts as a natural help to stress-busting.
- L-Theanine: A natural amino acid found in green tea to create a calming affect in dogs, without causing groggy.
- GABA: An inhibitory brain chemical that stops the brain from over excitment.
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How to Use Ashwagandha for Dog Anxiety: Practical Guidelines?
Step 1: Consult Your Veterinarian First
Your vet first If there is any chance of giving any supplement to your dog then you must first consult their vet.
Supplements of ashwagandha can react to some health-related drugs of your dog. Such as the drug related to thyroid, diabetes, blood pressure, immune suppression, and can also have a detrimental effect on dogs in pregnancy.
Step 2: Choose the Right Product
Check for standardization of the extract One clinical trial conducted on KSM-66 Ashwagandha a particular root extract with standardized levels of the active withanolides is one of them. The most clinically-studied ashwagandha on pets is KSM-66 and is comprised of more than 45 safety certifications.
Key criteria for choosing a product:
Utilize a formulation for animals: you may wish to look at pet supplements instead of ones designed for human consumption. Look for standardized extract specifying its with an olide content Choose from supplements made in FDA-regulated, GMP-compliant manufacturing. Seek supplements that contain minimal additives or fillers
Step 3: Determine the Correct Dosage
What dosage is recommended? Dosage is based on the size and age of your dog and on the particular supplement that you are using. Clinical studies use 15 mg per kg (about 5 to 10 mg per lb) of body weight per day. Here is an example: Dogs are given 15 mg per lb for one 24 hour period.
| Dog’s Weight | Approximate Daily Dose |
|---|---|
| Up to 10 lbs | 50-100 mg |
| 11-20 lbs | 100-200 mg |
| 21-30 lbs | 200-300 mg |
| 31-40 lbs | 300-400 mg |
| 41-50 lbs | 400-500 mg |
Note: These figures are estimates. Consult your product’s directions and your veterinarian.
Step 4: Administer Properly
Most of the times, it is safe. However, there can be some side effects, such as:
Vomiting and diarrhea loose stools, drowsiness or excessive sleep, sometimes a potential issue with liver function (mostly on humans and research on canines have been done less). When is an emergency situation? If the dog becomes unresponsive or trembles and there is difficulty in awakening it should be seen by vet right away.
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Other Adaptogens and Calming Supplements for Dogs
Inspired by commercial blendings of adaptogenic herbs (and thinking about the synergies of what you would add together if formulating it yourself):
Rhodiola Rosea
Amount often found in combination products:
25 mg/serving, 1.7 mg in an extract The 13-mg capsule is assumed to be intended for anxiety, as would be any drug targeting benzodiazepine-like receptors, the committee report states.
Holy Basil (Tulsi)
- Use: Ideally to provide adrenal support and management of stress with a stimulating effect.
L-Theanine + GABA + L-Tryptophan
- Amino acids also help build up brain transmitters to help encourage relaxing behaviour. Typical use includes in vet calming products like Calming Comfort Pro and Fera Pet Organics product line.
Valerian Root and Lion’s Mane Mushroom
- A recent clinical trial was conducted for our hemp based ashwagandha-infused calming aid, and our findings are as follows:
- 66.7% of pet parents would recommend repurchasing.
- 77.8% of pet parents would recommend the product to pet parents looking to help their dog’s anxiety.
- 55.6% of pet parents noted a change in their canine’s anxiety.
Real-World Evidence: What Pet Owners Report
A recent clinical trial was conducted for our hemp based ashwagandha-infused calming aid, and our findings are as follows:
- 66.7% of pet parents would recommend repurchasing.
- 77.8% of pet parents would recommend the product to pet parents looking to help their dog’s anxiety.
- 55.6% of pet parents noted a change in their canine’s anxiety.
A Holistic Approach: Adaptogens Aren’t Magic Bullets
How to integrate adaptogens in a whole plan:
Source factors: Find and eliminate or address underlying factors triggering the problem, including environmental stress in the home.
Behavior support: Work with an accredited trainer, behaviourist or attend home visits. Environment: Create an enriching environment through stimulating games, puzzle toys and safe den spaces.
Daily structure and routine for dogs: What can be done about their stress in relation to these. Physical exercise helps to reduce stress hormones.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is ashwagandha safe for all dogs?
Ashwagandha is generally safe for healthy dogs when administered properly. However, should not be given to nursing or pregnant dogs. Dogs with thyroid issues, diabetes, or low blood pressure should only receive ashwagandha with veterinary guidance.
What is the correct dose of ashwagandha for my dog?
Clinical trials recommend doses of 15 mg of ashwagandha per kg of body weight per day (approximately 5-10 mg per pound). If your dog weighs 30 pounds, that is equivalent to approximately 150-300 mg per day. Dosing can vary by brand so always check product packaging and ask your veterinarian.
Can I give my dog human ashwagandha?
No. The concentration may not be as accurate and may contain other components that are not safe for dogs. Best use a pet specific ashwagandha supplement.
How long until ashwagandha for dog anxiety takes to show effects?
Ashwagandha isn’t an immediate sedative but rather a powerful adaptogen that works with time. Studies have shown improvement of anxious dogs as soon as after 4 weeks of use daily. Some can experience results within a week or two.
What are the potential side effects of ashwagandha for dogs?
Some of the common side effects for dogs on ashwagandha include nausea, mild digestive upset (diarrhea or vomiting) and drowsiness. Some rare instances of liver issues have been reported for humans but use with caution and monitor your dog.
Can I combine ashwagandha with other calming supplements?
Yes, there are a number of dog supplements combining ashwagandha with L-theanine, GABA and Rhodiola to provide additive results for anxious pets. However, you should consult your veterinarian before giving your dog more than one supplement.
How do I know when my dog is anxious enough for a supplement?
If your dog experiences issues with destruction, loud or excess barking, shaking, or shows extreme signs of anxiety in specific circumstances (i.e., when they hear thunderstorms or fireworks or when separated from you), then it may be time to consider a supplement. Depending on how severe the anxiety may be, you may need a supplement combined with behavioral training or even prescription medication. Discuss all concerns with your veterinarian.
What is the difference between ashwagandha and CBD for dog anxiety?
Both options work naturally to relieve anxiety, however, they have different modes of action. Ashwagandha is known as an adaptogen, meaning that it can help the body’s overall response to stress and may over time balance the hormones that are related to stress such as cortisol. CBD works through interaction with the ECS and is thought to potentially create a more immediate calming effect in some cases. Both have benefits, and ashwagandha may have a stronger body of research on how it benefits dogs suffering with anxiety.
Can ashwagandha help with aggressive behavior in dogs?
Ashwagandha can certainly help in reducing the effects of aggression in some dogs, especially those that suffer from pain or anxiety. This is because it can lower stress levels, decrease the inflammation that may be causing the pain, and potentially alleviate anxiousness which may trigger aggressive behavior. Aggressive behavior is often best managed by utilizing training techniques in conjunction with a supplement like ashwagandha.
Do dogs need to take ashwagandha on an ongoing basis?
No. Most dogs benefit from adaptogenic supplements like ashwagandha during stressful times, such as seasonal periods of heightened activity (e.g., the Fourth of July holidays) or while you and your pet work together on behavior modification strategies. After the triggering stressor is past and your dog develops the coping tools needed to handle the situation, the supplement may be discontinued. However, your veterinarian will have guidance for this.
The Bottom Line
In summary: Ashwagandha and adaptogens are an effective, science-backed tool in supporting your anxious dog, but cannot substitute professional veterinary treatment. Science shows: After a four-week period with a daily dose of standardized ashwagandha root extract, all four stressed, anxious dogs tested were symptom free and had no side effects. If appropriate, and under the supervision of your veterinarian and given at the correct dose, and using an effective product that is specifically formulated for your pet, ashwagandha or other adaptogens can aid your anxious dog in becoming calmer and more resilient to the stressors they may face. Take the next steps: Contact your vet now Book your vet consultation Discuss ashwagandha or other adaptogens and your dog’s suitability Seek a quality, standardized pet supplement begin at a standard dose, and observe your dog for 2-4 weeks Supplement with behaviour modification and environmental changes.
