— Avoid Side Effects and Maximize Results with Proper Use

Why Precise Dosage Matters for Dog Calming Chews

• Common Mistakes:
  • ❌ “Give extra chews to large breeds” → Risks lethargy, vomiting, or liver strain.
  • ❌ “Double the dose if missed” → Sudden spikes may cause digestive issues.
• Science-Backed Insight: A 2022 study in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that overloading L-Theanine (a common calming ingredient) can disrupt neurotransmitter balance.

3-Step Guide to Calculate the Right Dosage

1. Check Product Potency

• Brand Variations:
  • Brand A: 50mg chamomile extract per chew → 1 chew/day for small dogs.
  • Brand B: 100mg blend per chew → Halve the dose for same effect.
• Label Clues:
  • “Small Breed Formula” (for dogs ≤22 lbs / 10 kg).
  • “Large Breed Chews” (for dogs ≥55 lbs / 25 kg).

2. Weight-Based Dosage Table

3. Adjust for Specific Scenarios

• Routine Use: Low doses for chronic issues (e.g., separation anxiety).
• High-Stress Events (thunderstorms, travel): Increase by 50% 1–2 hours prior (never exceed max dose).

4 Safe Ways to Administer Calming Chews

1. Hand-Feed as Treat: Build positive associations for cooperative dogs.
2. Mix with Wet Food: Crush chews into pâté or gravy for picky eaters.
3. Wrap in Peanut Butter: Use unsweetened, xylitol-free spreads.
4. Split Doses: For sensitive stomachs, give ½ chew morning and night.

Never Do This:

• ❌ Force-feed → Choking hazard.
• ❌ Pair with caffeine (e.g., chocolate treats) → Counteracts calming effects.

When to Avoid Calming Chews: Critical Contraindications

1. Health Conditions:
   • Liver/kidney disease (impaired metabolism).
   • Epilepsy (some ingredients may trigger seizures).
2. Special Cases:
   • Pregnant/nursing dogs (risk to puppies).
   • Post-surgery recovery (drug interactions).
3. Medication Conflicts:
   • SSRIs (e.g., Prozac) → Risk of serotonin syndrome.
   • Sedatives (wait 72 hours between uses).

Safety Checklist: Before & After Feeding

• Pre-Check:
  ✅ Verify expiration date and packaging integrity.
  ✅ Confirm no allergens (e.g., grain-free for sensitive dogs).
• Post-Check:
  ✅ Watch for vomiting/diarrhea within 2 hours.
  ✅ Note excessive drowsiness or hyperactivity (adjust dose if needed).

Emergency Action: Stop use and call your vet if breathing difficulties or seizures occur.

FAQs About Calming Chews for Dogs

Q: Can I crush calming chews into water?
A: Some are dissolvable, but crushing may reduce efficacy. Feed whole when possible.

Q: What if I miss a dose?
A: Skip it! Never double up—stick to the original schedule.

Q: Do puppies need smaller doses?
A: Yes! Puppies (<1 year) require ½ the adult dose. Senior dogs (>7 years) need vet clearance first.