Because barking and excessive activity are typically signs of stress in shelter dogs — not to mention being undesirable behaviors in the eyes of many adopters — the study concluded that exposure to the odors of vanilla, coconut, valerian, and ginger has the potential to reduce stress in shelter dogs.
Geranium Oil
Adding a few diluted drops in the space your pup is in may help your pooch feel soothed and relaxed. Geranium oil can absolutely be considered a calming scent for dogs.
Study shows that dogs are more likely to interact with and be interested in the scents of lavender, blackberry, blueberry, peppermint, linalool, and rose.
The sense of smell is indeed what this post is about, and whether some scents can act to calm or relax dogs who are in stressful situations. The bottom line is yes, according to a study done by Jonathon Binks et. al. (2018, The behavioural effects of olfactory stimulation on dogs at a rescue shelter.
Anxiety Relief
Lavender is most known for its calming properties… not just for humans, but for dogs as well. Sometimes our groomers will rub some lavender oil on their hands when handling a dog that is particularly nervous about being groomed. Breathing the lavender helps to reduce their anxiety and stress.
Music, lights, even relaxing scents can help your dog fall asleep while you offer him a relaxing massage. If your dog is mobile, getting him exercise before bedtime might help him relax more. A dog who is tired will be more eager to lie down and relax while you massage his tired muscles.
Melatonin may help pets stay calm in the short-term (e.g., for a planned car trip or before a thunderstorm) or can help them sleep better. L-theanine and L-tryptophan supplements are also commonly recommended by veterinarians to help with mild to moderate anxiety, says Dr. Coates.
Giving your dog a treat or toy, asking her to do tricks, petting her or moving her to a safe space are good solutions in the moment. Calming music and weighted blankets can also help.
Dogs notoriously love their blankets. Whether it's at home or on the road, it gives them a place to snuggle up and be comfortable. No matter your lifestyle, this is an easy investment that every pet owner can make to improve the quality of life for their animal.
Pet experts have long advised pet parents not to sleep with their dogs or cats for at least two main reasons: it will promote poor behavior in the animal and could lead to serious illness in humans. Many vets now believe concerns over such issues are overstated or just incorrect.
Dogs are sociable animals and love company, but although it is good practice that they learn to be home alone for a period of time, it is not advisable to leave them alone for very long periods, like overnight. Many dogs feel worried when they are left on their own, especially if they have been used to having company.
Starting at the back of the head, stroke up and down either side of your dog's spine using very gentle pressure. Be sure to stay off the bone. This type of back rub is calming and relaxing for dogs, says Brandenburg. It can be a good dog massage for anxiety, particularly for dogs who are fearful of human touch.
The dog breeds that are more likely to have this problem are the German Shepherd, Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, Jack Russell Terrier, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Bichon Frise, Toy Poodle, Labrador Retriever, Cocker Spaniel, and German Shorthaired Pointer.
Lavender oil can be safe for dogs as long as it's used properly. “Some lavender essential oils will need to be diluted before they are considered safe,” Dr. Bonk said. “Using too strong of a concentration of lavender oil or too much can lead to lavender poisoning or skin irritation.”
Lavender is toxic to dogs, especially when consumed. However, the scent can also cause respiratory symptoms in some dogs because they have a stronger sense of smell. Both the lavender plant and essential oils can be dangerous for your pet.
How safe are these essential oils for our pets? Many essential oils, such as eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, cinnamon, citrus, peppermint, pine, wintergreen, and ylang ylang are straight up toxic to pets. These are toxic whether they are applied to the skin, used in diffusers or licked up in the case of a spill.
At the top of the list? Citrus. Most dogs can't stand the taste and smell of oranges, lemons, and grapefruit. Here's why — plus, how to use their dislike of citrus to your advantage.
As much as you trust your nose not to tell you that milk is spoiled, your dog trusts his nose. Peppermint is toxic to dogs and understandably so, dogs don't like it.
Insomnia. The same components that make lavender a great solution to relieve anxiety … also make it an excellent sleep aid. Use diluted oil or calming spray (recipe above) on your dog's bed to help him sleep better.
Keeping your dog's mind stimulated can also help reduce excess energy. This is when playtime comes in. Things like playing fetch, having your dog search for a hidden treat, or running him through an obstacle course are all good ways to stimulate his mind and drain his energy.