What Are Adaptogens for Dogs? A Guide to Calmer Pups

Dogs get stressed too, and when belly rubs don’t cut it, some pups need a little extra support. Even everyday events can overwhelm your furry friend, whether fireworks, car rides, or just you leaving for work. That’s where adaptogens come in—natural plant compounds for when life gets loud—and your new best friend (next to your dog, of course).

In this guide, we’re digging our noses into what adaptogens are, how they work for dogs, and why more pup parents are turning to them for natural stress relief and emotional balance (and why you should, too!). 

Why Should Pup Parents Care?

From surprise thunderstorms to once-a-year fireworks frenzies, stress can sneak up on your pup more often than you’d think.

In a study of nearly 14,000 dogs, a whopping 72.5% showed at least one anxiety-related behavior. The most common? Noise sensitivity—with nearly one-third reacting to sounds like fireworks, thunder, or even vacuum cleaners. [3]

Your dog can’t exactly say, “I’m stressed”—but they’re definitely telling you in their behaviors. Whining, pacing, hiding, shaking—it’s all communication!

What Are Adaptogens? 

Adaptogens are natural herbs and plant compounds that help the body resist stressors of all kinds—physical, emotional, or environmental. They’ve been used for centuries in traditional medicine, and today, they’re making their way into modern pet wellness routines. [1]

Adaptogens work in harmony with their body’s natural systems to encourage resilience and calm, perfect for sweet pups dealing with things like hyperactivity, separation anxiety, or other reactive tendencies. [2]

What can adaptogens do for dogs? 

These gentle plant compounds can help promote your dog’s natural ability to stay cool, collected, and better equipped to handle life’s surprises. Adaptogens may help support your dog’s response to things like: [2]

• Occasional anxiety and hyperactivity

• Changes in routine, such as the back-to-work season

• Separation stress or travel-related jitters

• Environmental stressors like fireworks or thunderstorms

• Restlessness or trouble settling at night

• Behavioral cues tied to nervousness

How do adaptogens work in the canine body?

These compounds support your dog from the inside out: 

1. Absorption: Once ingested—typically via soft chews or supplements—adaptogenic compounds are absorbed through the digestive tract.

2. Response: These compounds interact with the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis, which helps regulate the body’s stress response.

3. Balance: Adaptogens are believed to help maintain normal cortisol levels and support neurotransmitters tied to mood and relaxation. [1,2]

Or, in simpler terms:

Adaptogens help your dog “roll with the punches,” whether it’s thunder, travel, or being home alone. A more balanced pup = a more peaceful household!

Is your dog a good candidate for adaptogens?

Adaptogens may be worth exploring if your dog:

• Gets spooked by loud noises

• Shows stress when left alone

• Struggles to relax at night

• Gets nervous in new environments

• Has a hard time adjusting to change

10 Ways to Help Your Dog Manage Occasional Summer Stress

We love summer... but your pup? Not always. Fireworks, thunderstorms, house guests, travel—these seasonal shakeups can activate your dog’s natural fight-or-flight response. And when things get loud or unpredictable, your pup looks to you for safety and reassurance.

So while you're soaking up the sun, your dog may be bracing for impact. Here’s how to spot the signs—and simple ways to help them cope with the chaos.

Common Signs Your Dog Might Be Stressed

Keep an eye out for these behaviors:

• Excessive panting

• Whining or barking

• Tucked tail

• Pacing or hiding

• Drooling

• Repetitive yawning

• Lower appetite

The best way to help? Stay proactive. You can’t prevent every thunderclap or firework boom—but you can set your pup up to handle it better:

1. Create a Safe, Calming Space: Designate a quiet, cozy area where your dog can retreat when overwhelmed. Add familiar bedding, toys, and something that smells like you—it helps create a soothing environment.

2. Use Soothing Sounds: Play calming music, white noise, or even dog-friendly TV to muffle anxiety-inducing sounds like fireworks or unfamiliar visitors.

3. Ease Into Triggers Gradually: Try desensitization by slowly exposing your pup to mild versions of their stressors—like low-volume thunder sounds—with positive reinforcement like treats or play.

4. Get Those Wiggles Out: Daily walks, play sessions, and mental enrichment may help release nervous energy and boost your pup’s emotional well-being.

5. Double-Check ID Tags: Scared dogs are more likely to make a run for it—literally. Before fireworks, road trips, or any big event, check that your dog’s ID tags are easy to read and up to date. Make sure their microchip info is registered correctly, too. Bonus tip: adding a GPS tracker or AirTag to their collar can give you extra peace of mind.

6. Prep for Travel the Right Way: Acclimate your pup to crates or carriers ahead of time. Pack familiar items, offer plenty of water breaks, and stick to light meals before travel.

7. Maintain Routine (Even When Life Isn’t): Whether you're going back to the office or hosting guests, keep feeding, walking, and play times consistent. Gradual transitions work best.

8. Stay Calm—They’re Watching You: Dogs mirror our emotions. If you're anxious or stressed, they’ll feel it too. Stay calm, confident, and reassuring—even when your pup is panicking.

9. Talk to Your Vet: If your dog’s stress feels chronic or severe, consult your vet. They can offer tailored strategies or guidance on supportive supplements.

10. Add Calming Support to Their Routine: High-quality calming supplements can offer gentle, daily support for dogs facing seasonal or environmental stress. Perfect for pups who get nervous during storms, travel, separation, or schedule changes!*

Calming Support: What’s Inside & Why It Works

PupGrade’s Calming Support Soft Chews are crafted to help dogs stay relaxed, emotionally balanced, and better equipped for life’s daily stressors. Designed for daily use, they offer gentle, natural support for pups navigating seasonal anxiety, environmental changes, or new routines.*

So what makes this formula so effective (and pup-approved)? Let’s take a look at the functional ingredients inside—and why thousands of pet parents swear by them:

Ashwagandha Root Powder [5]

An ancient adaptogen that may help dogs adapt to stress naturally.
• May support normal mood and behavior in dogs*
• Can aid in managing response to environmental stressors*

L-Theanine [6]

A calming amino acid that helps dogs relax—without knocking them out.
• May help reduce destructive behaviors caused by occasional stress*
• Helps promote a calm and focused demeanor in dogs*

Valerian Root [7]

A traditional herb often used for soothing temporary nervousness in pets.
• Promotes calm behavior in response to stressful events*
• May support better rest and nighttime relaxation*
• Often used during travel, moving, or disruptions in routine*

Organic Passion Flower [8]

A gentle botanical that may help dogs feel more emotionally balanced.
• Supports normal nervous system function*
• May reduce occasional excitability and restlessness*
• Can help dogs feel at ease during social or environmental changes*

Organic Chamomile [9]

A classic calming plant that supports relaxation during times of stress.
• May aid in managing behavioral cues of nervousness*
• Can support dogs with occasional stress from overstimulation or travel*

Ginger Powder [10]

A dual-purpose root that helps with both digestive comfort and emotional calm.
• May assist with occasional motion-related unease*
• Offers gentle calming support for anxious dogs*

Natural Calming Soft Chews That Taste Like a Treat!

When stress strikes, you need a solution that actually works—and one your pup wants to take.

That’s why PupGrade’s Calming Support Soft Chews combine science-backed ingredients with a tail-wagging turkey flavor dogs can’t resist.

The PupGrade Promise: Trusted by Thousands of Pet Parents

We believe every dog deserves to feel safe, balanced, and supported—no matter what life throws their way. That’s why we go the extra mile with every supplement. 

Why Pup Parents Love PupGrade:

• Gentle, non-sedative calming formula*

• Backed by functional ingredients and science

• GMP-certified & made in the USA

• 3rd-party lab tested for quality

• Free shipping on orders $50+

• 60-day money-back guarantee

• Hassle-free returns

You want your pup to feel safe and secure, whether it’s fireworks season or just another Tuesday. With PupGrade’s Calming Support Soft Chews, you’re not just giving them a treat. You’re giving them peace of mind, and giving yourself one less thing to worry about!

Real Pup Parents. Real Results.

No more sleepless nights

“These work great for my furbabies. Helps us all sleep better at night. We live in the city and there are always noises.” - Sue M.

BEST ANXIETY CHEWS EVER!

“That PupGrade has the BEST Anxiety Chews for pets. Molly our 11 year old who has been very pensive every night is now calm and does her business before bed time. We are very happy with all 3 products we purchase from PUPGRADE XOXOX” - Cathie B.

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This information is intended for general purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet or health routine, especially if you notice persistent or concerning changes in your dog's movement or behavior.

**These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition.

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Resources:

1. Panossian A, Wikman G. Effects of Adaptogens on the Central Nervous System and the Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Their Stress-Protective Activity. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2010 Jan 19;3(1):188-224. doi: 10.3390/ph3010188. PMID: 27713248; PMCID: PMC3991026. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3991026/ 

2. Auburn Laboratories, Inc. The Benefits of Adaptogens for Dogs. https://auburnlabs.com/the-benefits-of-adaptogens-for-dogs/ 

3. Wu, Katherine J. "Most Dogs Show Anxiety-Related Behaviors, Study Finds." Smithsonian Magazine, March 9, 2020. https://www.smithsonianmag.com/ 

4. Jasleen Kaur, Sujit Seshadri, Krishna Hasitha Golla, Prasanthi Sampara,

5. Efficacy and safety of standardized Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root extract on reducing stress and anxiety in domestic dogs: A randomized controlled trial, Journal of Veterinary Behavior, Volume 51, 2022, Pages 8-15, ISSN 1558-7878, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jveb.2022.03.002. 

6. Amy L. Pike, Debra F. Horwitz, Heidi Lobprise, An open-label prospective study of the use of l-theanine (Anxitane) in storm-sensitive client-owned dogs, Journal of Veterinary Behavior, Volume 10, Issue 4, 2015, Pages 324-331, ISSN 1558-7878, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jveb.2015.04.001. 

7. PetMD. (2017, August 16). Valerian root for dogs: Does it work? PetMD. Retrieved April 6, 2023, from https://www.petmd.com/dog/wellness/valerian-root-dogs-does-it-work 

8. Accurate Clinic. Passionflower for Dogs as a Natural and Safe Calming Aid. https://accurateclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Passionflower-for-Dogs-as-a-Natural-and-Safe-Calming-Aid.pdf

9. Gollakner, R. (n.d.). Chamomile: VCA Animal Hospitals. VCA Animal Hospitals. Retrieved April 6, 2023, from https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/chamomile

10. R. S. Siregar1, Y. Widiyastuti, M. S. Siregar, M. Silalahi. Journal of Animal and Plant Sciences. GINGER AS AN ANIMAL FEED ADDITIVE: AN OVERVIEW. Volume 34, No. (1), 2024, February. https://www.thejaps.org.pk/Volume/2024/34-01/03.php