Dogs are fuzzy balls of energy.
You’ll see them dash like furry rockets.
Though sometimes, they can be jumpy too.
Which makes them uncontrollable.
You may have tried calming them down…
However, nothing works.
But be at ease.
As I made a complete list of soothing methods, you can try.
Keep reading to discover:
- 101 scientifically proven ways of calming a dog.
- 9 easy massages to soothe your doggo at home.
- 11 fun activities that can wear out your hyper dog.
- And many more…
How to calm a dog down? 101 proven ways
#1: Soothing voice
First, if your dog’s anxious or out of control…
It’s best not to hold them immediately.
Your Fido might be scared at the moment.
So they may defend themself and bite you.
“What should I do first, then?”
Speak to your dog calmly
Use a slightly upbeat voice.
As if you’re talking with a baby.
Then call your Fido’s name. And tell them everything will be alright.
Studies reveal dogs like ‘baby-talk.’
Canines trust humans with this tone more than those who don’t speak this way.
Thus, you’ll quickly get your Fido’s attention.
Because your voice will be reassuring.
Check out also: 7 Cute Reasons Why Dogs Like Baby Talk
#2: ‘Safe haven’
After comforting your dog with a calm tone…
Bring or lead them to their ‘safe space.’
It can be any quiet area in your house that’s away from:
- People.
- Noises.
- Other pets.
According to experts, dogs also need ‘alone time.’
They go to isolated places to recover from stress or fear.
Say under your desk or in the corner.
“But how long should I let my dog be alone?”
Typically, they’ll come out once they feel okay again.
However, it’ll be concerning if your dog hides for so long.
So it should only be 4 hours at most for adult Fidos. And less for puppies.
Other reminders
- Ensure the spot’s always accessible to your dog.
- Place soft bedding or their favorite blanket inside.
- Leave the things they need (e.g., food, water, toys).
- Remove any hazards (e.g., electrical cords, toxic household items).
#3: Dog cave bed
Does your Fido like burrowing under the pillows or sheets?
If so, a cave-like space might make them feel safe.
What to do?
You can cover the top and 3 sides of your dog’s crate with a breathable blanket.
But there are ready-made beds, too, like this one.
Just pick the right size for your pooch.
Then for their peace, place it away from where people pass by.
Fun fact: Mother Fidos make den-like areas to secure their puppies. This is why most Fidos feel safe in dark, cramped places.
#4: Gentle strokes.
Does your dog usually allow petting?
Or do they come to you on their own?
If so, slowly rub them in areas they love.
A study says touch causes the body release oxytocin, a.k.a. the ‘love hormone.’
It enhances bonds. And it relieves stress.
That’s why a hug or a tap on the shoulder from someone you love makes you feel warm and fuzzy.
And this also applies to your furry friend.
One research found that petting your dog before leaving the house calms them down.
Also, another study says that stroking your Fido for 8 minutes lowers their heart rate.
Which means they’re relaxed.
What to do?
Gently stroke your dog for at least 10 minutes.
Aim for the usual sweet spots, such as:
- Chest.
- Shoulders.
- Base of their neck.
But each dog has a different favorite part. Or areas they don’t want to be touched.
So watch your pooch’s reactions.
Then stop when they show warning signals, like:
- Growling.
- Trying to run away.
- Showing their teeth.
In this case, let your dog settle down. Then try again after a few minutes.
But if your Fido still doesn’t want it…
Do the other tips below that don’t involve physical contact.
Warning: An anxious dog may act aggressively. So never touch your Fido abruptly. And do the following first:
- Announce your presence.
- Sit or squat down to your dog’s level.
- Invite them to come to you.
- Make minimal eye contact to avoid intimidating them.
#5: Back massage
You can take petting to the next level too.
Like humans, most dogs also enjoy a massage because it feels nice.
Also, studies show it reduces cortisol, a.k.a. the ‘stress hormone.’
Meanwhile, it increases the following ‘happy substances’ in the body:
- Serotonin.
- Dopamine.
And that’s why it helps reduce anxiety.
Now, there are many kinds of massages.
But you can do this simple technique at home.
And it’s perfect for dogs who haven’t received a massage yet or those sensitive to touch.
What to do?
- Bring your Fido to a quiet room.
- Do the massage in a padded area (e.g., couch, mat).
- Place yourself on either side of your dog. (Avoid the front.)
- Gently stroke them a few times.
- Put your hand on the back of their head.
- Apply gentle pressure.
- Slowly stroke either side of their spine up and down.
- Avoid the bone area.
- Do this for at least 15 minutes.
Warning: Never do this if your Fido’s highly nervous or excited. If your dog allows it, continue. But if not, stop at once and never force them.
Continue reading: 11 Amazing Benefits Of Giving Your Dog A Massage
#6: Ear rubs
Many dogs like it when you scratch their ears.
As the nerve endings make the areas sensitive to touch.
So it may also hurt when you pluck some of your dog’s ear hair.
But besides this…
The nerves also react to gentle strokes.
Then they’ll relay them to the brain as pleasurable sensations.
What to do?
- Hold your dog’s ears gently.
- Put each thumb on the inner side of their ear flaps.
- Place your index finger on the outer sides.
- Slowly rub their ears with enough pressure.
- Do it from the base to the tip.
- End each stroke with a gentle pull.
Warning: Stop and consult your vet if your dog feels pain around the ears. You’ll know it if they constantly scratch that area. Or if they only have one ear up.
#7: Forehead scratches
Your furry friend also has ‘calming points’ on their head.
One of these is ‘Yin Tang.’
And it’s in the middle of the forehead – between the eyes, based on experts.
(Check out this illustration.)
What to do?
- Put either your thumb or 2 fingers (index and middle) on your dog’s forehead.
- Add little pressure.
- Slowly stroke your Fido from the point to the top of their head.
“How does this calm down a dog?”
If you apply pressure on the Yin Tang point…
You’ll let the calming energy flow into your Fido’s body.
Trivia: Research says it’s a technique in ancient Chinese medicine that eases anxiety.
#8: Face massage
Besides Yin Tang, there are also ‘Yang Tang’ points.
You’ll find these on the sides of your Fido’s head – above the eyes.
So they’re like your dog’s temples.
Or the same spots you massage when you have a headache.
According to vets, stroking the Yang Tang points lessens nervousness and irritability.
What to do?
- Locate your dog’s temples.
- Place your thumb on each side of your Fido’s face.
- Softly massage those spots.
Warning: If your dog doesn’t let you touch their face, they might be in pain. In this case, monitor your Fido closely and call your vet.
#9: Thigh and glute rubs
A dog with joint pains may also act restless.
For this, a massage on their thigh and glute can help ease the discomfort.
A study found that massaging muscles lessens pain in dogs.
And experts observed they get better with every therapy.
But since they have a condition…
It’s best to consult a vet first. Especially if your pooch has persistent joint pain.
Then bring your Fido to a certified animal massage therapist.
However, you can still help your dog at home with a light massage.
What to do?
- Put your thumb on your dog’s thigh or glute (hind area above the tail).
- Slightly press into them.
- Stroke the muscle with a backward ‘c’ or clockwise half circle.
You might also like: 9 Ways To Massage A Dog With Arthritis (How-to)
#10: Chest massage
Most dogs like their chest scratched too.
So if your Fido loves it, it may also help relieve their stress.
What to do?
If possible, put your pooch in a sitting position.
This way, you can easily access their upper body for a massage.
Once done, do the following:
- Place your hands over your Fido’s chest.
- Gradually stroke them in a circular motion.
- Do this from the chest toward their armpits.
Note: Check if your dog can handle the pressure you apply. Then adjust accordingly or stop if they dislike it.
#11: Effleurage
This refers to long, light strokes.
According to experts, effleurage doesn’t only relax a dog.
It also does the following:
- Reduces swelling.
- Enhances blood flow.
- Gives warmth to the tissues.
What to do?
- Put both your hands on the part you want to massage.
- Slowly stroke your Fido in the direction of their fur.
- Do this 5-6 times and use your hands alternately.
- Gently knead them in the opposite direction – towards their heart.
- Repeat steps #2 and #4 for 10-15 minutes.
Note: Stroke your dog as slowly as possible – at least 5 seconds. Also, lighten the pressure when you go over their bony parts.
Read also: 9 Ways To Massage A Dog To Sleep (How-to Guide)
#12: Full-body massage
You can do this to finish the session with your pooch.
An overall massage won’t only help calm them down.
It’s also an opportunity to check your dog’s body.
Say if they’re itchy or aching somewhere.
What to do?
First, pet your dog all over 5 times as a warm-up.
And then, do the following:
- Place your palms on their chest.
- Apply little pressure.
- Move them slowly in circular motions.
- Do the same thing towards their neck and shoulders.
- Rub backward toward your Fido’s spine and rear end.
- Repeat #3 on each of their leg.
#13: Canine acupressure
Remember these calming points earlier?
- Yin Tang (forehead).
- Yang Tang (temples).
They’re part of a traditional type of massage called ‘acupressure.’
Vets say it started in ancient China. And it’s like acupuncture.
But instead of needles…
You’ll put pressure on your dog.
“How does this work?”
Based on research, acupressure enhances their ‘qi’ or energy.
It helps lessen your Fido’s pain. As well as anxiety.
That’s why some vets also use this to calm dogs down before surgery.
What to do?
If your dog’s been anxious for days and you want to try this…
Have them checked by a vet first to rule out medical conditions.
Then, bring them to an expert in animal acupressure.
They can give you a treatment that best suits your Fido.
Plus, they may teach you some light massages.
Usually, experts do this by applying pressure on a dog’s ‘acupoints.’
Specifically, those that ease anxiety.
Besides their forehead and temples…
Specialists say you’ll find these in your Fido’s:
- Front forearms.
- Brisket (between the forelegs).
They’ll massage these areas for 15 seconds, then release them.
And the session may last for 15-30 minutes.
#14: TTouch therapy
The healing power of physical contact doesn’t end yet.
In 1978, Linda Tellington Jones created ‘TTouch.’
It’s a light massage therapy for animals.
As per vets, it helps animals with behavioral problems.
And these are often caused by:
- Phobias.
- Anxieties.
- Fear aggression.
This helps them calm down. Which then makes them focus and learn better.
However, TTouch isn’t a simple massage.
To further relieve your dog’s anxiety…
They have to undergo 2 parts:
| Part | Procedure | Purpose |
| Bodywork | Body wraps. Light touches (clockwise circular motion). | Soothes the mind. Makes them more aware of their surroundings. |
| Groundwork | Obstacle courses. Balance exercises. | Retains their calmness. Enhances confidence and focus. |
Note: This isn’t a fix for urgent cases. But if you want to learn TTouch for your pooch, check out their website. They offer courses and certificates.
#15: ThunderShirt
Hugs are comforting.
But besides the physical contact…
The gentle pressure also reduces stress.
And that’s the concept behind a ThunderShirt.
If worn correctly…
It’ll hit pressure points in your Fido’s body.
And as per research, 89% of dog parents find this effective.
Especially for Fidos scared of thunderstorms.
Also, one study says dogs with this shirt had lower heart rates than those who wore nothing.
Which means they’re calm.
Other reminders
- Train your dog to get used to the wrap.
- Only use it when necessary to keep its effectiveness.
- Wear it to them during pleasant events. (This prevents them from linking the wrap to stressful ones.)
#16: DIY thunder shirt
If it’s urgent or if ThunderShirt isn’t available in your area…
You can also improvise one at home by doing the following:
- Pick an old shirt that can be tight enough on your dog.
- Wear it on them backward – with the neck opening on their tail.
- Tie the shirt around their chest.
#17: DIY anxiety wrap
Apart from old shirts, you can also use your bandages as a wrap.
What to do?
- Get a bandage long enough to wrap around your dog.
- Put them in a standing position.
- Position it under their chest.
- Bring both ends up.
- Make a ‘cross’ over their shoulder blades.
- Place the ends under your dog’s tummy.
- Cross the bandage.
- Tie both ends over their rear end.
If you want to see how it’s done, check out the short clip below:
#18: Chew toys
Our furry friends munch on something when they feel uneasy.
That’s because the action has a calming effect.
In humans, one research found that chewing gum helps ease anxiety.
Plus, it also lessens fatigue and depression.
So once your anxious dog’s in their safe place…
Offer them a chew toy they can play with to calm them down.
But here are some considerations:
Size
Choose which suits your dog’s mouth.
For example, avoid toys that are too small if you have a large breed.
Material
Avoid hard toys.
Instead, pick non-toxic rubber or plushies.
But before selecting one, consider your dog’s…
Chewing style
| Style | What they usually do with toys | Material/s that suits them |
| Gentle | Sucking, licking | Soft plushies |
| Average | Chewing moderately | Rubber, nylon |
| Power | Chewing aggressively | Durable rubber, nylon, edible chews |
Here are the best examples of chew toys:
Warning: Never leave your dog with a toy unattended. They may break it after nibbling and then eat the small pieces. Also, dispose of it once it wears off.
#19: Licking mats
Aside from chewing…
Dogs may also lick a lot because of the following:
- Stress.
- Boredom.
The action’s pleasurable to them.
And it makes their bodies produce happy hormones like ‘endorphins.’
So, why not give your dog a licking mat?
- Smear a bit of plain peanut butter or wet food on it.
- Offer it to your pooch to help calm their nerves.
Do this, or else they might lick anything they find.
Say their toys or the furniture – even if there are no traces of food or interesting tastes there.
Note: You can also freeze the mat. And serve it on hot days.
#20: Interactive dog puzzles
Experts say canines have a mind of a 2-year-old kid.
At that age, babies can solve simple puzzles.
So, your dog could do it too.
For example, give your Fido either of these interactive puzzles:
What to do?
- Pick a toy with difficulty level 1.
- Hide some treats under the puzzle lids.
- Get your dog’s attention by showing them the food.
- Demonstrate how to manipulate the covers.
- Let your Fido solve the puzzle.
If it’s too easy for your dog, adjust the toy’s difficulty. Or get one with a higher level.
Solving puzzles needs thinking. And this tires out the brain.
Thus, it can reduce your Fido’s time worrying and keep them busy.
Warning: Some puzzles may have removable parts which can choke your dog. So never leave them alone with these toys.
#21: Treat balls
These won’t only stimulate your dog’s brain.
By trying to get the treats out of these balls…
Your Fido will also get enough physical exercise.
And again, a tired dog (in a good way) often results in a calm pooch.
#22: Long-lasting treats
Instead of chew toys, you may also give your pooch some edible ones.
These will tire them out and feed their tummy as well.
But since ordinary treats will be gone in only a few minutes…
Opt for long-lasting ones.
Say bully sticks or yak cheese.
These can keep your Fido busy most of the time.
Plus, they’ll have a positive outlet for their pent-up or nervous energy. Which will calm their nerves down.
Warning: These aren’t toxic to dogs. But like chew toys, they may also cause choking or intestinal blockage. So always watch your dog and ensure the treat’s not too hard or big for their teeth.
#23: Calming chews
If chew toys and long-lasting treats have little effect on your dog…
Try these instead. Especially if your Fido has:
- Anxiety.
- Separation issues.
- Noise phobia (e.g., fireworks, thunder).
And also if they get stressed about vet visits and travels.
Your dog will love chewing these goodies.
Plus, they might fall asleep while doing so. Which then solves your problem.
Now, why’s that?
It’s because most calming chews have 3 ingredients.
They work together to put dogs in a relaxed state of mind.
And they’re as follows…
#24: Thiamine
Research says this affects nerve impulses.
These are messages carried by neurons or units that make up the brain.
Wherein fear and anxiety start.
However, your furry pal can’t make thiamine on their own.
So this should be part of their diet. And they can get it from:
- Fish.
- Beans.
- Lentils.
#25: Colostrum
This is also known as a mother dog’s ‘first milk.’
It’s rich in antibodies or proteins that defend against bacteria.
As per vets, colostrum aids the immune system.
Also, it boosts the growth of good bacteria in the tummy.
But it helps reduce stress as well.
This comes in:
- Powder.
- Capsules.
So you may give this orally. Or blend it in your dog’s food.
However, ask your vet first, as your Fido might be sensitive to milk.
Note: Store colostrum on your kitchen shelf or in the fridge. Just maintain a temperature below 80°F (27°C).
#26: L-Theanine
Based on a study, dogs with noise phobia showed fewer signs of anxiety after having this.
They licked their lips less.
Plus, they rarely clung to their parents too.
And one research says that it helps calm dogs who fear storms.
Note: For dosage, follow the instructions on the label. Usually, calming chews work within 30 minutes to 1 hour of ingestion. And the effects may last up to 4 hours.
#27: Valerian root
This is an herb used since ancient times.
It often cures insomnia and anxiety in humans.
So, valerian root can also soothe dogs.
Research shows that when Fidos sniffed its scent…
They became calm. Plus, the dogs didn’t bark much like they used to.
What to do?
According to vets, the dose depends on your dog’s stress level.
So have your Fido checked first.
Also, there aren’t enough studies on this yet.
Thus, experts warn you of possible side effects:
- Lethargy.
- Dizziness.
Note: Never give this to puppies and older ones. As well as dogs who are:
- On medications.
- About to get surgery.
#28: Probiotic supplements
A calm tummy also means a peaceful mind.
Probiotics are good live bacteria in the gut.
And they usually:
- Cure diarrhea.
- Help with digestion.
- Maintain the immune system.
But according to a study…
They can also lessen anxiety in animals. Which then improves their mood.
These come in:
- Powders.
- Capsules.
- Chewable tablets.
So to know the right product and dosage for your dog…
Ask your vet first. Then, you can mix it with your Fido’s meals.
#29: Probiotic-rich food
Apart from supplements…
Your dog can also get probiotics from food, like:
- Kefir.
- Yogurt.
- Fermented veggies.
But ensure what you’ll feed to your Fido are:
- Xylitol-free.
- Unsweetened.
The first one’s an artificial sweetener that’s toxic to dogs.
#30: Ginger
This spice has many benefits for dogs.
It helps:
- Reduce nausea.
- Sharpen the mind.
- Protect cells from damage.
And research says it also eases anxiety in animals.
“But how?”
One study found that ginger affects serotonin levels.
It’s a hormone that controls mood. And science shows it’s responsible for feelings, like:
- Optimism.
- Happiness.
- Satisfaction.
What to do?
According to vets, you can give it in juice or powdered form.
But, if you want to give it to them fresh, here’s how:
- Peel the fresh ginger.
- Chop it into small pieces.
- Mix it in your dog’s meals.
Warning: Ginger can make the blood thinner. So give small dogs no more than 0.25 tsp (271 mg) and 0.75 tsp (813 mg) to larger ones.
Also, ensure your Fido doesn’t have the following:
- Diabetes.
- Heart diseases.
- Bleeding disorders.
- An incoming surgery.
- A reason to take pain relievers.
#31: Classical music
Mozart can also be a lullaby to Fidos.
Based on research, classical music helps calm kenneled dogs.
The Fidos slept a lot. And they barked less than canines who didn’t listen to such pieces.
On the other hand…
Heavy metal music made the dogs more nervous.
So to soothe your Fido…
Play some classical pieces. And put them at a comfortable volume.
Not too loud, not too quiet.
Don’t forget to check out: Why does my dog howl at music?
#32: Soft rock and reggae
Compared to pop, Motown, and classical music…
Studies found that dogs’ heart rates were more stable when they listened to soft rock and reggae.
Meaning, canines love these genres the most.
So if you and your pooch get tired of Mozart or Beethoven…
Play your fave Air Supply and Bob Marley songs next.
Or, blast these pre-made Spotify playlists for dogs at home:
Note: Alternate the kind of music you’ll play for your dog. Based on research, they get tired of the same songs after 7 days.
#33: Soothing dog tunes
Dr. Susan Wagner studied more on this topic.
She discovered that piano solos calm Fidos more than classical music.
Also, Wagner suggests songs with:
- Low tones.
- Gentle tempos.
- Simple chords.
“But why?”
It’s because a dog’s mind relaxes better when there are fewer things to process.
What to do?
- Search for calming music for dogs on Youtube.
- Get Pet Acoustics Pet Tunes (soothing tunes dog speaker).
- Play ‘Through A Dog’s Ear’ (on Amazon, Spotify, or Apple Music).
#34: White noise
If your dog’s anxious because of the loud vacuum or fireworks…
You can also distract them with ‘white noise.’
As per experts, it has sound frequencies that are equally distributed.
It’s like a note that’s played repeatedly. Or a constant humming sound.
You usually hear this from a:
- Whirring fan.
- TV/radio static.
- Buzzing air conditioner.
And this can easily mask external sounds.
#35: White noise sound machine
If you also have trouble focusing or falling asleep…
Consider investing in this device.
The white noise it emits has better quality. Compared to the one produced by your phone or speakers.
So these may relax both you and your dog in just 1 click.
Plus, they’re handy too.
And you can bring this device anywhere, like this one.
#36: New crate location
Sometimes, dogs need to be alone.
Or, you have to confine them for a while to prevent them from creating a mess.
If trained well, crates won’t be scary for dogs. As they should be a safe place for Fidos, not a punishment.
But your pooch may still get anxious inside it when they can’t see you.
So to calm them…
Try moving their crate where they have a better view of the house.
Place it in the corner near:
- Your office.
- The kitchen.
- Your bedroom.
Also, ensure that you put everything your dog needs inside it, like:
- Bed.
- Toys.
- Food.
- Water bowl.
You might also want to know: Why does my dog suddenly hate his crate?
#37: Comfier bed
On average, dogs sleep 12-18 hours daily.
This makes their bed play a major role in their lives.
Plus, studies show that canines perform better at doing commands after taking a nap.
So like you, your pooch also needs a nice bed to lie on.
And it’ll help calm their nerves too.
What to do?
- Wash their bedding regularly.
- Give them a fluffier mattress.
- Switch to an orthopedic bed (for senior dogs with joint issues).
Note: Most Fidos like soft things. But others may also prefer to sleep on cold, hard flooring, especially during hot days.
#38: Dog-appeasing pheromone (DAP)
Once mother Fidos give birth…
They release this to comfort their puppies.
And also to enhance their bond.
It’s a type of ‘pheromone.’ Or a chemical signal that relays messages to the same species.
Thus, you can’t see it with your naked eye.
But, your dog could smell other Fido’s pheromones using their second nose.
It’s called ‘Jacobson’s organ.’
And you can find it above the roof of their mouth.
Now, due to this pheromone’s soothing effect…
Experts made a synthetic version of it.
Research says DAP helps dogs in reducing signs of:
- Distress.
- Noise phobia.
- Separation problems.
And it comes in forms, such as:
What to do?
- Install or diffuse the product.
- You may need 8-10 sprays, depending on the instructions.
- Wait for 15 minutes before letting your dog in the area.
Usually, the effects last for 2-3 hours.
So check the product’s label to see when you can reapply it.
Warning: Never spray this directly on your dog or too close to them.
#39: Dog-safe aromatherapy
A study found that the lavender oil scent calmed dogs while traveling.
The Fidos took more naps.
Plus, they also barked and moved less.
Thus, essential oils can be helpful too.
But only when used properly and with caution.
So talk with your vet first for recommendations (e.g., lavender oil, Bach flower essences).
As well as instructions for use.
Ideally, these oils must be diluted first.
Also, it must not be ingested or applied directly on the skin.
Essential oils are too concentrated.
So if consumed or touched, they can:
- Poison.
- Burn skin.
- Affect the liver.
Warning: Experts say that most essential oils are toxic to dogs. Thus, always keep the oils out of their reach.
The most dangerous ones are the following:
- Pine.
- Citrus.
- Tea tree.
- Cinnamon.
- Ylang-ylang.
- Sweet birch.
- Pennyroyal.
- Peppermint.
- Wintergreen.
#40: Old clothes
