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Can melatonin help my dog's separation anxiety and escape attempts?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | 1 year and 2 months old | 60 lbs

My dog is suffering from severe separation anxiety, when we all leave the house he tries to break out and successfully got out of the house and yard. I’ve read that melatonin tablets can help dogs with anxiety and wanted a professional opinion, as we would like to try something before getting a prescription for something stronger from the vet

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 1st, 2018

You’re welcome to try the melatonin (1-3mg once to twice daily). My guess is that it won’t work to be honest, but you never know. I’m a huge proponent of anti-anxiety medications (of which there are several) . They tend not to have serious side effects, are relatively inexpensive, and I have had great success with them. I wish you and Flash the best!

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