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MidJourney
Just like humans, dogs can have restless nights, pacing the house, whining, or struggling to settle down. Whether it’s due to anxiety, discomfort, or simply too much energy before bedtime, a lack of restful sleep can affect your dog’s health and mood. Fortunately, there are safe, natural ways to help your furry friend relax and get the sleep they need. Here are seven natural sleep aids that can help your dog unwind and snooze soundly through the night.
Hemp-Infused Calming Chews
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Hemp is widely known for its calming properties, and it’s just as beneficial for dogs as it is for humans. If your pup struggles with anxiety or hyperactivity at bedtime, calming supplements with hemp can help soothe their nerves and promote better rest. One great option is the iHeartDogs Hemp Mushroom Chews – Mobility, Calming, and Immune Support (on Amazon). These chews combine organic hemp with soothing mushrooms and other natural ingredients to ease anxiety, support overall wellness, and gently calm your dog before bed. They’re especially useful during stressful events like storms or fireworks, but also work wonders as a nightly calming ritual.
Chamomile for Gentle Relaxation
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Chamomile isn’t just for human tea time—it’s also a gentle, natural sedative for dogs. It can help ease anxiety and promote relaxation, making it perfect for helping your dog wind down at night. Chamomile can be found in many dog-safe supplements or calming treats. You can also brew a weak chamomile tea and add a small amount to your dog’s food or water (after confirming with your vet). This soothing herb can help reduce restlessness and even aid digestion, which can also be a source of nighttime discomfort.
Lavender Aromatherapy
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Aromatherapy isn’t just a spa trend—it can work wonders for your pup, too. Lavender essential oil, in particular, has been shown to reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm. You can place a drop or two of diluted lavender oil on your dog’s bedding or use a pet-safe essential oil diffuser to gently infuse the air with its calming scent. Just be cautious with the concentration, as dogs are much more sensitive to smells than we are. Always use dog-safe products and consult your vet before introducing essential oils to your pet’s environment.
Weighted Blankets for Dogs
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Weighted blankets have gained popularity for easing anxiety in humans, and the same concept can help calm dogs. A dog-specific weighted blanket provides gentle, even pressure that can help relax your pup’s nervous system and promote a feeling of safety. Many dogs respond positively to this kind of “hugging” sensation, especially if they suffer from separation anxiety or nighttime fears. You can find weighted blankets made specifically for dogs in a variety of sizes and fabrics designed to keep your pup cozy without overheating.
Regular Evening Exercise
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Sometimes the best sleep aid isn’t a supplement or product—it’s just a good, old-fashioned walk. Dogs with excess energy can struggle to wind down at night, especially if they haven’t had enough physical and mental stimulation during the day. Taking your dog for a brisk walk or engaging them in a play session a couple of hours before bedtime can help burn off that extra energy and naturally signal to their body that it’s time to rest. Pair that with a calming nighttime routine, and you’ll have a dog who’s more than ready to curl up and snooze.
L-Tryptophan and Melatonin Supplements
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L-Tryptophan, an amino acid found in turkey, and melatonin, a naturally occurring hormone, are both known for promoting relaxation and sleep. These ingredients are often included in dog-friendly sleep aids and supplements. They work by increasing serotonin and regulating your dog’s sleep-wake cycle, helping them drift off more easily and stay asleep longer. Be sure to choose a product formulated specifically for dogs and talk to your vet before adding these supplements to your dog’s routine to ensure safe usage and proper dosage.
Establishing a Soothing Bedtime Routine
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Just like people, dogs benefit from routine and structure. Creating a consistent bedtime routine can do wonders for a restless pup. This could include a calming chew like the iHeartDogs Hemp Mushroom Chews – Mobility, Calming, and Immune Support (on Amazon), a relaxing aromatherapy session, and some quiet bonding time. Keeping bedtime at the same time every night, dimming the lights, and creating a calm environment can signal to your dog that it’s time to settle down. Consistency is key—dogs thrive on predictability and will begin to associate these cues with rest and relaxation.
A More Peaceful Night Awaits Your Dog
MidJourney
Helping your dog sleep better naturally doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few gentle adjustments and the right calming aids, you can create a nighttime routine that soothes your dog’s body and mind. Whether it’s the calming effects of iHeartDogs Hemp Mushroom Chews – Mobility, Calming, and Immune Support (on Amazon), a dose of gentle aromatherapy, or a comforting bedtime ritual, your pup will be well on their way to restful, rejuvenating sleep—and so will you. Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, iHeartDogs earns from qualifying purchases.
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