Calming Herbs and Ingredients for Hyperactive Dogs: A Guide for Pet Parents

Do You Know Calming Herbs and Ingredients for Hyperactive Dogs and Why They Matter?

Have you ever watched your dog zoom around the house endlessly, barking at shadows, unable to relax? It’s adorable until it’s not. What if there were natural ways to ease that hyperactivity? What if your dog’s diet held the secret? Enter the world of calming herbs and vital supplements that work wonders, especially for dogs on raw diets.

At K9 Vitality, we’re here to guide you. As pet parents ourselves, we know you want the absolute best for your furry family member. This blog will be your ultimate guide, expert-backed, easy to digest, and rooted in real results. Whether you're new to raw feeding or already knee-deep in bone broth and liver treats, understanding supplementation is key to keeping your dog healthy and balanced.

Why Supplementation Matters on a Raw Diet

A raw diet, often consisting of muscle meat, organs, bones, and sometimes vegetables, is a return to what dogs ate in the wild. But modern dogs are not wolves, and they face a different set of challenges: pollution, processed environments, and varying activity levels.

Key Reasons to Supplement:

• Nutrient Gaps: Even the best raw diets may lack key nutrients.
• Lifestyle Differences: Indoor dogs often need different support than wild canines.
• Life Stage Needs: Puppies, adults, and seniors each have unique requirements.
• Health Concerns: Anxiety, joint pain, digestive issues all can be addressed through smart supplementation.

Core Supplements for Raw-Fed Dogs

1. Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Omega 3s support brain health, skin condition, coat shine, and reduce inflammation. Raw diets can be low in omega 3 unless fatty fish is regularly included.

Sources:
Fish oil (wild-caught salmon oil is a favorite)
Krill oil (bonus: it’s sustainable)

2. Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes

A raw diet supports gut health, but transitioning can be tough on your dog’s digestive system. Supplementing ensures smooth digestion and better nutrient absorption.

Key Benefits:

Reduced gas and bloating
Improved stool quality
Stronger immune system

Choose:

Soil-based probiotics (SBOs)
Multi-strain blends

3. Calcium and Phosphorus Balance

Bones offer calcium, but the balance with phosphorus is critical. Too much of one can affect skeletal health.

Tip: If not feeding whole prey, consider supplementing with ground eggshell or coral calcium.

4. Zinc and Copper

These trace minerals are essential for immune function, coat health, and wound healing. Organ meats often don’t meet the daily requirement.

Natural Sources:

Zinc: oysters, beef
Copper: liver, shellfish

Supplement If: Your dog has a dull coat or slow-healing skin issues.

5. Vitamin E

Fat-soluble and vital for heart and muscle health. If you supplement omega-3s, you must add vitamin E to prevent oxidation.

Best Form: Natural vitamin E (d-alpha-tocopherol)

6. Iodine

Found in sea vegetables like kelp, iodine supports thyroid function and metabolism.

Caution: Dosage is critical. Overuse can harm the thyroid.

7. Vitamin D

Dogs don’t synthesize vitamin D from the sun as humans do. Deficiency is common in raw diets.

Source: Cod liver oil (also rich in vitamin A)

Calming Herbs for Hyperactive Dogs

Now to the behavior part, because even a perfectly nourished dog can still be anxious. Here are nature’s calming allies:

1. Chamomile

Eases anxiety and digestive upset
Great for car rides and vet visits

2. Valerian Root

Natural sedative effect
Best used for short periods

3. Passionflower

Helps with general nervousness
Enhances GABA in the brain, promoting calm

4. Ashwagandha

Adaptogen that helps with stress
Can also support adrenal health

5. CBD Oil (Pet-Safe)

Reduces hyperactivity and pain
Anti-inflammatory benefits

Usage Tips:

Always consult your vet, especially for dosage.
Introduce one herb at a time.
Use high-quality, organic sources.

Real-Life Impact: A Story from the K9 Vitality Community

Meet Daisy, a 2-year-old Border Collie with energy to spare. Her raw-fed diet gave her a beautiful coat and lean physique, but her hyperactivity was exhausting her owners. With K9 Vitality’s guidance, they added CBD oil, probiotics, and a calming herbal blend. Within weeks, Daisy was more focused during training and settled calmly at night.

How to Choose High-Quality Supplements

Red Flags to Avoid:

• Artificial colors or flavor.
• Unnecessary fillers
• No transparency in sourcing

What to Look For:

• Third-party testing
• Clear ingredient list
• Vet-recommended or formulated

K9 Vitality Tips: Breed Specific Supplementation Matters

Every dog is unique. Breed, age, size, and activity level play a major role in supplement needs. For instance, large breeds may need joint support early, while small breeds might benefit more from digestive aids.

Consider:

1. Your dog's age and activity level.
2. Any existing health conditions.
3. Seasonal needs (e.g., winter immune boosters)

Always tailor the supplement plan with guidance from a holistic vet or pet nutritionist.

Conclusion: Let K9 Vitality Be Your Partner in Canine Wellness

Your dog’s health isn’t just about food, it’s about balance. From bone support to behavior, supplements can transform your dog’s life on a raw diet. And when it comes to finding the right combination, K9 Vitality is here to guide you.

You’re not just feeding your dog, you’re shaping their future. Whether it’s calming their anxiety with gentle herbs or filling nutrient gaps with precision, you now have the knowledge to do it confidently.

Let’s raise healthier, happier dogs together.

Stay tuned for more expert tips, stories from real pet parents, and guidance you can trust from K9 Vitality.