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My dog has thunderstorm anxiety. OTC meds or vet visit for help?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Miniature Schnauzer | Male | neutered | 25 lbs

My miniature schnauzer has been having a terrible time dealing with thunderstorms and I'm thinking of some anti anxiety medication for him to help. Any recommendations for over the counter meds that are safe for him or should I wait for a visit to the vet?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 23rd, 2017

You can always try over the counter remedies for anxiety before resorting to drugs. That being said, I have rarely seen these "natural" products work on dogs especially ones that have severe anxieties. Here are some things you can try: 1. Thundershirt: http://www.thundershirt.com/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIzuHJ_Y2j1QIVFo1-Ch00fwx0EAAYASAAEgKaavD_BwE 2. Rescue Remedy for Pets: http://www.bachflower.com/rescue-remedy-pet/ 3. DAP (dog appeasing pheromone): http://dapdiffuser.com/ If those do not help, I would suggest you speak to your vet about a prescription of Trazodone. I think it is the best anti-anxiety medication without many side effects and it doesn't make them too groggy or "out of it". Hope this helps. Best wishes!

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    Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 14th, 2018

    Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. I would recommend using the below following products, which can be found online or at your local PetCo. These can take time to work so I would give it about 2-3 months before you see improvement. I hope this helps guide you in the right direction. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further. Please remember to rate this answer as helpful or not. Thank you! 1. Adaptil pheremone collar 2. Thundershirt 3. NaturVet Quiet Moments Calm Chews with Melatonin

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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