Medication to Calm Dogs
- Medications that are blends of natural essences from flowers claim to have calming effects on dogs. "Calm Down!" is a brand name of this type of medicine. It is a liquid and 1 tsp. is to be given twice a day.
- Valerian is prepared from the root of the valerian officinalis plant and is an over-the-counter drug for humans. It can legally be prescribed by veterinarians for dogs as a sedative to promote sleep and as a treatment for hyperactivity.
- Clomipramine comes in tablets and is prescribed for treating separation anxiety, inappropriate urination and defecation, or excessive barking.
- Amitryptiline comes in tablets and is prescribed for anxiety-related problems or to calm increased activity in the nervous system.
- Fluoxetine, better known as Prozac, is best used in conjunction with behavior modification techniques to treat chronic hyperactivity problems.
- Medications usually are just short-term, last-resort solutions. Regular exercise and training relieve stress, reduce hyperactivity and are better for the dog's health.