 Photo by Mike Burke on Unsplash If you’ve ever sat on the floor with a shaking dog during a thunderstorm, you know this feeling. You want to help. You would try just about anything if it meant they could relax. So you end up standing in the pet store aisle, or scrolling online, staring at calming chews, CBD oils, powders, treats… all promising the same thing. A calmer dog. A better life. But do they actually work? Short answer is...Sometimes. And that answer tends to frustrate people, so let’s unpack it properly. What We’re Really Talking About When We Say “Calming Supplements”Most OTC dog calming products work by trying to nudge the nervous system in a softer direction. Common ingredients include things like L-theanine, alpha-casozepine, melatonin, tryptophan, and herbal blends. Then there are hemp-derived products, including CBD, which get a lot of attention right now. On paper, many of these ingredients have a reasonable mechanism. They can influence neurotransmitters, reduce excitability, or promote relaxation. But here’s the thing no one says clearly enough. Mechanism does not equal outcome. I’ve seen dogs respond beautifully. I’ve also seen dogs take the same product and look at their owner like, “Cool snack. I'm still nervous. What’s next?” When They Can HelpIn real life, I see calming supplements help dogs who are a little “on edge,” but still reachable. We aren't talking full-blown panic. The dog who is… wound up. A bit too alert. A little quick to escalate. What vets call 'mild to moderate anxiety'. More like:
In these cases, the right product can take the intensity from an eight down to a five. And that can be enough to make life easier for you and your dog. When They Usually Don’t Work Illustration by Riswan Ratta on Unsplash Now let’s talk about the dogs people are really worried about. The ones that:
That is not a supplement problem. That is a whole-system problem. And this is where expectations get people into trouble. Because instead of building a plan with a veterinarian and/or behaviorist, they keep trying different products. New chew. New oil. New brand. Meanwhile the dog is still struggling and as a result, you are suffering. Why Results Are All Over the PlaceIf you feel like you’ve tried something and it didn’t do much, you’re not imagining it, and there are a few real reasons for that. First, quality varies more than people realize. Some products are thoughtfully formulated. Others are… let’s just say optimistic. Second, dosing is often off. Under-dosing is incredibly common in OTC supplements. Third, dogs are individuals. What works for one anxious doodle may do absolutely nothing for your shepherd mix. And fourth, sometimes we’re asking the wrong tool to fix the problem. Let's talk about some common mistakes pet parents tend to make. Mistake #1: Giving the Supplement Too LateMost calming supplements are not magic switches. If you give them after your dog is already in a stress response, you are late to the party. Across the board, they tend to work better when given before a known trigger. Think an hour or two ahead of time for something like travel, vet visit, or a storm. This is different than prescription strength anxiety medication you get from your vet, which tends to work whether the dog is stressed or not. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had a client say, “It didn’t work,” and when we walk through it, the problem was that the timing was off. Mistake #2 Treating the Wrong ThingSometimes, it isn't anxiety. Behaviors that we humans tend to think of as 'anxious' can also be seen with dogs that are bored, have a lack of training, or a true medical issue. I’ve seen dogs labeled as “anxious” who were actually under-exercised working breeds going a little stir crazy. I've also seem extremely anxious small breed dogs that turned out to have Cushing's disease, a hormonal issue. A supplement won’t fix those issues. If your dog is displaying 'anxious' behaviors, it is always important to get them checked out by a veterinarian before trying anxiety supplements to make sure it isn't something else. Mistake #3: Switching Supplements Instead of Layering SolutionsMany people will try a new supplement if the current one isn't helping. Instead of bouncing from product to product, think about layering support:
Remember: When you stack solutions thoughtfully, you get traction. When you swap supplements randomly, you get frustration. What I Look for in a Calming SupplementWhen somebody asks me about calming supplements, I don’t start with brands. I start with the dog. What does the anxiety actually look like? When does it happen? What triggers it? How intense is it, and how quickly does the dog recover? This information matters more than the label on any product. Then I recommend a treatment plan that includes training (behavioral modification), environmental modification if necessary, and calming tools, such as medications and supplements. Once we’ve got that picture, then we talk about solutions, including supplements. When I analyze a supplement here is what I want to see: 1. A clear ingredient list with listed amounts is non-negotiable. I want to see exactly what’s in the product and how much of each ingredient is included. If it says “proprietary blend,” I usually pause because transparency is key. A lot of supplements fail because they don't have enough of the active ingredient or it isn't bioavailable (your dog can't use it). 2. Secondly, I analyze quality control. I want to know that what’s on the label matches what’s in the bottle. Third-party testing is one of the easiest ways to get that reassurance. Remember - just because something is sold over the counter does not mean it’s consistent or well regulated. A recent study of almost 30 products showed that many didn't contain what they said they contained and others were contaminated with heavy metals. Only use products that are tested by a third party for purity and ingredient concentrations - this information called a COA (Certificate of Analysis) should always be available on the product website. 3. The last piece is expectations for what the product will actually do. Before anyone buys anything, I want us aligned on what success looks like. We are not chasing a perfectly calm dog. That’s not realistic. We’re looking for a shift. Maybe the dog settles faster. Maybe the reaction is less intense. Maybe recovery is quicker. Small, meaningful changes. Because once you see even a little improvement, now you have something to build on. So Should You Try a Calming Supplement?For a lot of dogs, yes, it’s a reasonable place to start. Calming supplements are relatively easy to try, they’re generally safe when used appropriately, and for the right dog, they can make a noticeable difference. I’ve seen plenty of cases where a small shift, a dog settling a little faster, reacting a little less intensely, makes day-to-day life feel more manageable for everyone involved. I always recommend checking with your veterinarian before starting any new supplements, especially if your dog is already on medication or other supplements, is very old or young, or has any kind of medical condition. Where I see people get stuck is when the supplement becomes the entire plan. When a dog is dealing with anxiety, the most important question is not “Which product should I use?” It’s “What’s actually driving this behavior, and how severe is it?” Without that context, you’re guessing. And guessing tends to look like trying one product after another, hoping something finally clicks. That’s where working with your veterinarian really matters. We’re not just there to recommend products. We’re there to help you step back and look at the whole picture, what the behavior looks like, when it happens, how intense it is, how quickly your dog recovers, and whether there could be an underlying medical piece contributing to it. Pain, cognitive changes, even subtle health issues can show up as anxiety, and if we miss that, no supplement is going to fix the problem. In more complex cases, this is also where a board-certified veterinary behaviorist can be incredibly helpful. They have advanced training in behavior and anxiety disorders, and they’re equipped to build structured, individualized treatment plans that go well beyond general advice. That might include targeted behavior modification, environmental changes, and when appropriate, prescription medications used in a thoughtful, controlled way. Sometimes a calming supplement is part of that plan. Sometimes it plays a supporting role. And sometimes, it’s just not the right tool at all. The goal isn’t to keep cycling through products and hoping for a different outcome. The goal is to understand your dog well enough to choose the right combination of support from the start. That might include training, changes to routine or environment, medical support, and yes, sometimes supplements layered in where they make sense. So if you want to try one, that’s completely fair. It can be a helpful first step. Just don’t let it be the last one if your dog is still struggling. Because they deserve a plan that’s built around them, not a process of trial and error. And if you’re being honest, you deserve that clarity too. Final Thoughts for Pet ParentsCalming supplements are tools. Some are genuinely helpful. Some you’ll try once and never think about again. It’s easy to get pulled into the idea that there’s one “right” product out there, and if you could just find it, everything would click into place. I wish it worked that way. It usually doesn’t. What makes the biggest difference, over and over, is understanding the dog in front of you. What sets them off. What helps them recover. What they need more of, and what they need less of. Once you have that, your decisions get a lot clearer. You’re not guessing anymore. You’re choosing support that actually fits. And that’s when things start to change. ❤︎ And a Quiet Note for Pet Brands Reading This Pet owners are paying closer attention than you think.
They are reading labels. They are comparing ingredients. They are noticing tone, wording, and whether something feels grounded in reality or just polished enough to sell. You might get a first purchase with strong marketing, but you do not get a second one without trust. And trust is where the gap shows up. Most pet owners can tell, even if they cannot explain it, when something is written to sell them versus when it is written to help them make a good decision. One feels a little too smooth. The other feels like someone is actually trying to guide them, even if that means setting more realistic expectations. The brands that earn long-term loyalty are the ones that respect that difference. They do not overpromise. They do not rely on vague language or inflated claims. They meet pet owners where they are, answer the real question behind the purchase, and leave enough room for honesty. That might mean acknowledging limits. It might mean saying a product is helpful for some dogs, not all. That kind of clarity does not weaken a brand. It strengthens it. If you are building products in this space, messaging matters just as much as formulation. Sometimes more. Because even the best product cannot overcome messaging that feels off. On the flip side, clear, responsible communication builds confidence before the product is ever opened. It sets expectations, reduces misuse, and helps the right customers find you for the right reasons. That is how you build something that lasts. If you’re a pet company working in this space and want to create content that pet owners actually trust, that’s something I care deeply about. I work with a small number of brands to develop educational content that is accurate, clear, and aligned with current veterinary standards. The goal is simple. Help pet owners make better decisions while protecting the integrity of your brand. You can learn more about working together here. For the health and wellbeing of animals ~ Dr. Sarah J. Wooten, DVM, CVJ
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 This just makes me □ I turn down more brand partnerships than I accept. That surprises some people. It does not surprise the veterinarians reading this. From the outside, brand collaborations can look simple. A product. A platform. A post. From the inside, especially from a veterinary perspective, they are anything but. My name, my license, and my professional reputation are attached to everything I share publicly. I took an oath when I became a veterinarian to above all do no harm, and I take that oath seriously. That means every partnership decision gets the same scrutiny I would give a medical recommendation in the exam room. Non-Negotiable YesesBefore I say yes to a collaboration, I get real clarity on a few things. ✅ Is the product safe for its intended use? ✅ Are the claims accurate and defensible, not just technically legal but ethically sound? ✅ Is the messaging honest about limitations, risks, and appropriate use? ✅ Is transparency built into the campaign from the start? If the answer to any one of those is no, the partnership stops there. Not because I am difficult, but because credibility is hard to earn and easy to lose. And at the end of the day, pet health is my responsibility. Why This Matters to Pet ParentsWhen you see me talk about a product, it means I am comfortable attaching my professional reputation to it. That reputation was built over years of clinical practice, continuing education, and hard conversations with clients when the answer was not simple or convenient. I protect it carefully, because trust is what allows veterinarians to do their jobs well. Pet parents deserve to know that education is coming first, not promotion. Why This Matters to BrandsEthical partnerships last longer. Veterinarians are not megaphones. We are filters. We are trained to question, verify, and consider unintended consequences. When a brand understands that and respects it, the collaboration works better for everyone involved. The strongest partnerships I have been part of treat veterinary input as an asset, not an obstacle. What a Good Partnership Looks Like The best collaborations feel educational, not promotional. They leave room for nuance. They prioritize trust over urgency and accuracy over exaggeration.
They also recognize that long-term credibility matters more than short-term clicks. That approach is the foundation of how I work with companies across education, content creation, and spokesperson roles. If you are curious about what that collaboration process looks like in practice, you can learn more on my Work With Dr. Sarah page, where I outline how I partner with brands in a way that protects both pets and public trust. Those are the partnerships I say yes to. And those are the ones that last. To your pet's health, Dr. Sarah J. Wooten  Photo by Patryk Dmowski on Unsplash As a parent (of both humans and furry creatures) I understand the appeal of the word “natural.” It feels gentle. Familiar. Reassuring. It sounds like the opposite of harsh, synthetic, or risky. And we all want to feed our creatures the best ingredients for the best health. Unfortunately, biology tends to be more nuanced than marketing language. The Problem With the Word “Natural”In pet products, “natural” has no consistent medical definition. It can mean plant-based. Minimally processed. Derived from something that once grew. Sometimes it simply means the ingredient sounds nicer on a label. None of those definitions automatically mean safe. Some of the most toxic substances on the planet are completely natural. Cyanide is natural. Certain mushrooms are natural. So are many compounds that cause serious harm when the dose or species is wrong. Safety depends on context, not vibes. Why “Natural” Breaks Down Across Species When people hear the word “natural,” they often assume it will behave the same way in every body. That is where things start to go sideways. Pets are not small humans. Dogs are not cats. Cats are definitely not tiny dogs. A substance can be completely natural and still be handled very differently depending on the species. Cats, in particular, process certain compounds in a unique way because of how their livers function. That difference alone can turn a plant-based or naturally derived ingredient from harmless to problematic. Essential oils are a good example. Many come from plants. Many smell lovely. Some are tolerated well by people and even dogs. Several can cause serious issues for cats, especially with repeated or concentrated exposure. Nothing about the oil being natural changes that biology. The issue is not intent. It is how a pet’s body actually handles the substance once it is inside. When “Natural” Is Mistaken for “Helpful”A very common belief is that if something is natural, it must be doing something good. Sometimes that is true. Often, it is not. An ingredient can be plant-based, naturally derived, or traditionally used and still offer little to no real benefit for a pet. In some cases, it simply adds complexity without improving health. In other cases, it can actually create problems. This is a strong reason why veterinarians tend to be cautious about layering multiple natural remedies. The question is not whether an ingredient sounds wholesome or familiar. The question is whether it is actually useful, appropriate, and supported for that animal in that situation. Natural does not automatically mean beneficial. Sometimes it just means unnecessary. Other times it means harmful. When in doubt, check with your veterinarian before giving it to your pet. A Clinic Conversation I Will Never ForgetA well-meaning owner once brought in a cat with neurological signs. The cause turned out to be a diffuser running nonstop with a “natural” essential oil blend. The owner was devastated. They were only trying to create a calm, soothing environment for their home. That experience stays with you as a veterinarian, because no one did anything careless. The product sounded safe. The intention was loving. The outcome was not. That is why I talk about this topic so often. How to Choose Safer ProductsInstead of asking whether something is natural, ask better questions:
Responsible brands are transparent about what their products can and cannot do. That honesty is a green flag. The Bottom Line Nature is powerful, but 'natural' on a product label doesn't necessarily mean it is the best product for your pet.
Understanding how products work helps you protect your pet without giving up common sense or peace of mind. That's all I have for today. To you and your pet's health, Dr. Sarah J. Wooten  Photo by Frankie Cordoba on Unsplash I hear this question a lot, usually while someone is standing in the pet food aisle holding two bags and looking mildly betrayed. “Dr. Sarah, this one says vet-recommended. Does that actually mean anything?” Short answer. Sometimes, yes. Longer answer. Not always in the way people think. Let’s talk about what that phrase can mean, and what it definitely does not. What “Vet-Recommended” Can Mean in Real LifeAt its best, “vet-recommended” means a veterinarian has evaluated a product and decided it clears a basic credibility bar. Safe. Reasonable. Unlikely to cause harm when used as directed. That opinion might be based on:
Magic. Guarantees. Universal agreement. Veterinary medicine is rarely black and white. Most recommendations live in the gray space between ideal data and real-world practicality, where safety, experience, and common sense all matter. What “Vet-Recommended” Usually Does Not MeanThat label does not automatically mean:
That is not inconsistency. That is medicine doing what it is supposed to do. A Quick Clinic Story Photo by Content Team on Unsplash I once had a client bring in a supplement labeled “vet-recommended” that contained ingredients known to irritate cats. The product itself was not inherently dangerous and it was commonly used in dogs. The problem was that the label did not clearly explain that distinction. The owner did nothing wrong. They trusted the wording. That moment stuck with me, because it highlighted how much weight people place on a few reassuring words, and how important it is that those words are used carefully. How to Use “Vet-Recommended” Without Being MisledInstead of stopping at the phrase, ask a few better questions:
Why This Matters More Than EverPet parents are overwhelmed with options, and companies are competing for attention. In that environment, trust becomes the most valuable currency. When “vet-recommended” is used thoughtfully and transparently, it helps guide good decisions. When it is used loosely, it chips away at confidence for everyone. My goal is to help you feel informed, capable, and comfortable asking smart questions so you can choose products for your pet with clarity and confidence. Clear, responsible communication protects pets, pet parents, and the professionals who stand behind the products they recommend, which is exactly the focus of my work with brands on evidence-based, compliance-safe pet education.  To your pet's health,
Dr. Sarah J. Wooten  That breath? Not just bad luck. Dental checkups save more than smiles — keep your pup’s grill healthy! Your dog’s teeth may not be at the top of your to-do list — until that “toxic cloud” of dog breath hits you in the face. Dental disease is one of the most common health problems in dogs, yet it’s surrounded by myths that keep pet parents from getting the care their pups need. Let’s bust the top 5 myths about dog dental health.  🦷 Myth #1: Dogs Don’t Need Dental Care
The Truth: Over 80% of dogs have some form of dental disease by age three. Left untreated, bacteria from the mouth can travel to the heart, kidneys, and liver. Dental care isn’t a luxury — it’s essential. 🦴 Myth #2: Chew Toys and Bones Clean Teeth Just Fine The Truth: Chews can help reduce plaque, but they’re no substitute for professional cleanings. Hard bones can also break teeth. Think of them as a toothbrush “bonus,” not a replacement. 🍗 Myth #3: Dry Food Keeps Teeth Clean The Truth: Kibble may provide some abrasion, but not nearly enough to prevent tartar. Dental-specific diets exist, but regular kibble isn’t a dental plan. 💨 Myth #4: Bad Breath Is Normal in Dogs The Truth: “Doggy breath” isn’t just gross — it’s usually a sign of dental disease. Fresh breath = healthy mouth. If your dog’s breath could peel paint, it’s time for a dental checkup. 🐕 Myth #5: Professional Dental Cleanings Are Optional (or Dangerous) The Truth: Anesthesia-free cleanings only scrape the surface and miss disease under the gumline. This is actually more dangerous for your pet because the teeth look clean but there is still problems under the gums, which lead to gingivitis, pain, and tooth loss. Professional cleanings under anesthesia are the gold standard for safe, thorough dental care. ✅ What You Can Do for Your Dog’s Teeth
Bottom Line Dog dental health myths may be common, but they can cost your pup their teeth — and more. With the right care, your dog’s smile can stay as healthy as their wag. Warmly, Dr. Sarah ❓FAQs: Dog Dental Health Q: Is bad breath normal in dogs? A: No. Bad breath is usually a sign of dental disease, not something to ignore. Healthy dog mouths shouldn’t smell foul. Q: Can I brush my dog’s teeth at home? A: Yes! Daily brushing with a pet-safe toothbrush and toothpaste is the gold standard for prevention. Start slow and reward your dog to build tolerance. Q: Are dental chews enough to keep my dog’s teeth clean? A: Dental chews help reduce plaque and freshen breath, but they can’t replace regular brushing or professional dental cleanings. Q: Is it safe for dogs to have dental cleanings under anesthesia? A: Yes. While anesthesia always carries some risk, modern veterinary anesthetic protocols are very safe. Anesthesia-free cleanings, on the other hand, miss disease under the gumline. Q: How often should my dog have a professional dental cleaning? A: It depends on your dog’s breed, age, and individual dental health. Many dogs benefit from yearly cleanings, but your veterinarian can recommend the right schedule. Q: Do small dogs really have worse dental problems? A: Yes. Toy and small breeds are more prone to tartar buildup and tooth loss because their teeth are crowded into small jaws. They often need more frequent cleanings.  Photo by Michael Oxendine on Unsplash  Pumpkin spice latte season is here — but while you’re enjoying cozy vibes, your dog might be miserable. If your pup is scratching nonstop, licking their paws, or shaking their head this fall, seasonal allergies may be the culprit. Just like people, dogs can react to pollen, mold, and dust. The difference? They can’t tell you what’s wrong. Here’s how to spot dog allergies, when to worry, and what to do to give your furry friend some relief. 🍂 What Causes Fall Allergies in Dogs?
🐶 Common Signs of Dog Allergies Unlike humans (who sneeze and get watery eyes), dogs usually show allergies on their skin and ears:
🏥 When to See the Vet Some mild allergies can be managed at home, but call your veterinarian if you notice:
⚠️ Pro tip: Ear infections linked to allergies rarely go away on their own. Waiting = worse infections = more expensive treatment. 💊 Treatment Options
🏡 What You Can Do at Home
 🐾 Bottom Line
If your dog is itchy this fall, don’t dismiss it as “just dry skin.” Seasonal allergies are real, uncomfortable, and can lead to bigger problems if untreated. With your vet’s help (and some at-home TLC), you can keep your pup comfy while you sip that pumpkin spice latte. Warmly, Dr. Sarah  Our furry friends bring us joy, companionship, and unconditional love (and if you have a Golden, lots of fur). However, just like humans, pets can also experience stress and anxiety that can be profound in some dogs and cats. Understanding the signs, causes, and ways to manage stress in our beloved companions is not only crucial for their well-being, but also for ours. EVERYTHING IS RELATED In this blog post you will learn the signs of stress and anxiety in pets, the signs of stress, how to manage stress and anxiety at home, and when to call the vet. Signs of Stress and Anxiety in PetsPets, whether dogs, cats, or other animals, can exhibit various signs of stress and anxiety. One common indicator is a change in their behavior. For example, a typically friendly and outgoing pet may become withdrawn, hiding away or avoiding interactions with family members. or overly grumpy. On the other hand, some pets may become excessively clingy, seeking constant attention and reassurance. Changes in appetite, such as decreased or increased eating, as well as vomiting and diarrhea, can also be signs of stress. Additionally, pets may exhibit destructive behaviors, such as excessive chewing, digging, or scratching, which can be a result of anxiety. Some pets can even pull out their hair, urinate and defecate inappropriately where and when they shouldn't, or lick themselves enough to cause sores. Needless to say unaddressed stress and anxiety in pets shortens lifespans, decreases quality of life (both theirs and yours!), and (between veterinary bills and buying a new carpet because your cat urinated all over it multiple times, is expensive!
This blog post is intended to help you learn more about stress and anxiety in pets, including the causes, symptoms, how to manage it at home, and when to get the vet involved. 
Owning a pet brings immense joy, love, companionship, and fur into our lives. However, alongside the pleasures of being a pet parent, there often comes an unwelcome guest - guilt. Pet parent guilt is a common emotional experience that arises from the fear of not meeting our furry companions' needs to the fullest extent. Even veterinarians are not immune - I experienced it myself when I had to euthanize my dog, Alma, in 2021 after a valiant battle with cancer. It was gut-wrenching. In this blog post, we will explore the various aspects of pet parent guilt and provide strategies to cope with this challenging inner experience. Understanding Pet Parent Guilt
Pet ownership guilt can manifest from many different situations, such as feeling inadequate in providing proper care, feeling like you are neglecting pets' well-being, or not spending enough quality time with them. Separation anxiety guilt may arise when leaving our pets alone for extended periods, leading to worry and doubt about their emotional state. Guilt related to a pet's health may emerge when we feel responsible for their ailments, believe we could have done more to prevent them, couldn't do more because of financial limitations, or feel like you chose euthanasia either too early or too late. Additionally, guilt may weigh heavily when we perceive our pets' behavior as problematic because they are bored and lacking exercise opportunities and mental stimulation.
 As a responsible pet owner, you want to ensure that your furry friend gets the best possible nutrition. With countless pet food options available, it can be challenging to make the right choice. A crucial aspect of selecting the ideal food for your pet is understanding the information provided on pet food labels. In this article, we'll help you decode pet food labels so you can make informed decisions about your cat's or dog's diet.
Decoding pet food labels can seem overwhelming, but with a little knowledge and practice, you'll become a pro at selecting the right food for your furry friend. Remember that your veterinarian is an invaluable resource for guidance on your pet's specific dietary needs. By understanding pet food labels and consulting with your vet, you can ensure that your cat or dog receives the balanced and complete nutrition they need for a long, healthy life.  Author-About Sarah Wooten, DVM, CVJDr. Sarah Wooten is a renowned international influencer in the veterinary and animal health care spaces, with over 16 years of private practice experience and a decade in veterinary media work as a certified veterinary journalist. Passionate about educating pet parents, Dr. Wooten has written thousands of articles, created hundreds of videos, and made numerous media appearances as a veterinary expert. In addition to being a sought-after speaker for continuing education events, she is also a co-creator of the popular card game 'Vets Against Insanity'. In her free time, Dr. Wooten enjoys various outdoor activities and encourages everyone to live life to the fullest. Through her affiliate partnerships, she shares trusted recommendations to support her mission of empowering pet owners and veterinary professionals while providing reliable resources for pet health care. |
AuthorDr. Sarah Wooten is a small-animal veterinarian, international speaker, author, and passionate advocate for both pets and the people who love them. With over 20 years of experience in clinical practice, media, and continuing education, she specializes in making veterinary medicine clear, credible, and never boring. Archives
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