When you see your dog’s anxiety levels running high, it can be hard to know how to deal with the situation. But it turns out that the answer may be as simple as adding a few nutrients to your dog’s diet. In this article, you’ll learn about 7 specific nutrients that may help relieve some of your dog’s anxiety symptoms and reduce his or her overall stress levels when they get too high. They may not work immediately, but they can help ease your dog into a more relaxed state of mind over time.
1) Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3 fatty acids are rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids (ALA), which can help to reduce inflammation in your dog’s body. Consider supplementing your dog’s diet with a fish oil capsule, or adding more cold-water fish like salmon to his diet. You can also try cooking up some fish and veggies for a nutrient-packed meal that is sure to settle your anxious pup.
2) Zinc
Zinc helps to reduce general anxiety in dogs. Zinc is found in meat, fish, oysters and dairy products. The recommended daily amount for zinc supplementation is 10 mg per pound of dog’s body weight. Look for a food with added zinc or talk to your vet about potential deficiencies.
3) Vitamin C
Vitamin C, in addition to being a powerful antioxidant that is used up during times of stress, also has been shown to help support nerves and calmness. Be sure to include natural sources of vitamin C such as oranges, broccoli, peppers and strawberries in your dog’s diet.
4) Iron
While not necessarily a vitamin, iron is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in any pet’s diet. Deficiency can result in neurological disorders and anemia, while excess can cause oxidative stress. If your dog suffers from anxiety, you should consider adding extra iron to their diet to help them feel calmer and more in control of their day-to-day life.
5) B Vitamins
A healthy dog is an emotionally-stable dog. If you own a dog with anxiety, give him B vitamins as supplements. The B vitamins include thiamine, riboflavin, niacin and folic acid. These nutrients help your pet’s body convert food into energy so he feels better and acts calmer when his tummy feels less tense.
6) Magnesium
This mineral is responsible for muscle relaxation and works well to reduce anxiety, which makes it especially beneficial for dogs suffering from separation anxiety. Studies have shown that magnesium plays a role in helping people with panic disorders calm down and relax. Magnesium is an essential nutrient found in whole grains, dark leafy greens and nuts. You can also find it at any health food store in capsule form or as part of a multi-vitamin supplement specifically targeted at anxious dogs.