If your dog is showing signs of being stressed and anxious, you might need a calming product for your pet, like a dog calming plug-in or a safe space with a dog bed to retreat to, to help them relax. Certain factors such as separation anxiety, Bonfire Night, loud noises, past trauma, phobias, illness or injuries can all be triggers for nervy dogs and are situations that may make your pet feel uncomfortable.
If your furry friend struggles with separation anxiety, aggression and stress while travelling or out of the house, it can be challenging to know what we can do to help them. If you're wondering how to help calm an anxious dog, there are certain remedies, anti-anxiety dog beds and plugins that claim to do just that. But how do they work, and what are the best ones to use?
Best dog calming plug-in at a glance:
Pheromone diffusers for anxious pets have received positive testimonies from cat and dog owners. Some even say their pet is entirely different after using a calming plug-in. Studies have shown that pheromone diffusers and other calming products can help calm anxious dogs and cats in certain circumstances.
Plug-in diffusers function in the same way as plug-in air fresheners. The plug-in creates low-level heat underneath the pheromone liquid, which emits a lasting release of the synthetic pheromones to create a calming effect in the surroundings. Without further ado, here is our pick of the best calming plug-ins for dogs, with many backed up by real and positive reviews, along with some other pet products that will help to relax and calm your pooch.
Best calming products for dogs UK
Best dog calming plug-in overall

For pet parents dealing with an anxious pup, the ADAPTIL Calm Home Diffuser promises a science-backed way to create a more relaxed environment. Over 25 years of each into animal welfare have gone into making this plug-in, which emits a synthetic version of the pheromone mother dogs naturally release to comfort their puppies, offering a sense of security for stressed out dogs by giving them some familiarity from their puppyhood.
Many pet owners online rave about how this diffuser has transformed their nervous doggos, helping them settle during fireworks, thunderstorms or when left home alone. One gripe that some reviewers have is that the refill runs out quicker than 30 days as advertised. Other than that, customers are happy with the calming effects it offers and they also say the setup of the plug in couldn’t be simpler as you just plug it in and let it work its calming magic.
Pros
- Made using 25 years worth of research into animal warefare and science
- Offers your pup some familiarity from their puppyhood as it emits a synthetic pheromone similar to the one mother dogs naturally release to comfort their puppies
Cons
- Some reviewers found that the refill runs out quicker than 30 days as advertised
Size: | 48ml |
Item form: | Diffuser and refill |
Coverage: | Up to 70m2 |
Lifespan: | Lasts 30 days |
- No1 clinically proven dog behavioral product
- Backed by over 25 years of science and research into pet welfare
- Veterinary recommended
Best natural dog calming plug-in

Not just for dogs, the Pet Remedy Natural De-Stress and Calming Plug-In Diffuser is designed for cats, rabbits and even horses too. You just simply plug it in and let the de-stressing properties slowly release into the environment. As a natural calming remedy, the solution inside the refill is a blend of essential oils, including valerian, vetivert, basil and sage to help your pup feel more relaxed and less jittery without needing to resort to anything stronger, like a sedative.
Not every pet parent is a fan of the scent of this Pet Remedy Diffuser saying that its herbal scent is quite strong for humans so it can feel a bit overpowering in small spaces. However, many customers like that it’s a natural product and that it’s a drug-free way of helping their dog chill out. Reviewers also appreciate that it can be used on a variety of animals, making this product a great choice for multi-pet households.
Pros
- Great for multi-pet households as it works on dogs, cats, rabbits and even horses
- As it's a natural calming remedy, the solution is made using a blend of essential oils so it's a drug-free way of helping your dog chill out
Cons
- The herbal scent is quite strong for humans, with some reviewers finding it a bit overpowering in small spaces
Item form: | Diffuser and refill |
Size: | 40ml |
Lifespan: | Lasts 60 days |
Coverage: | Up to 60m2 |
- Clinically proven
- Only 5 watts - cheap to run
Best long-lasting dog calming plug in

www.petsathome.com
Whether your furry friend gets nervous due to separation anxiety, family gatherings, fireworks or something else, the Beaphar CaniComfort Calming Plug-In Diffuser with Refill for Dogs is designed to take the edge off their stress. It uses pheromone technology, which is scientifically recognised for its calming effects, mimicking a dog’s natural calming signals. With 48ml inside every refill, it’ll provide around-the-clock calming relief for up to 30 days.
Reviews mention the effects of this Beaphar plug-in take a couple of days to kick in. However, once it does, many pet owners have reported their pups becoming more relaxed, less prone to barking and even showing a bit more confidence in stressful situations since using it.
Pros
- Uses pheromone technology which mimics a dog's natural calming signals
- The 48ml refill is designed to provide around-the-clock calming for up to 30 days
Cons
- Some customers have reported that it took a couple of days for the calming relief to kick in
Item form: | Diffuser and refill |
Size: | 48ml |
Lifespan: | 30 days |
Coverage: | Up to 70m2 |
- Scientifically recognised pheromone technology
- Specifically designed for dogs of all ages and can be used for puppies from birth
Best dog calming plug in kit

Help your canine companion find their inner zen with the Woyamay 3-in-1 Dog Calming Plug-In. In this kit, you’ll find the wall plug and two refills that are designed to last up to 30 days, so you could have up to two months of calming vibes with this set. This diffuser releases that aim to reduce anxiety-driven behaviours like excessive barking and scratching, creating a more peaceful environment for both you and your pet. It’s especially useful during stressful times for your pup, such as moving to a new home, introducing a new furry friend to the pack, or during those stormy nights with scarily loud thunder.
Customers have noted in reviews that the smell of the diffuser is subtle, which is great if you’re particularly sensitive to strong scents. Some reviewers have mentioned that it hasn’t managed to completely solve their dog’s nervous and anxious behaviour but the important thing is that it’s helped to gently manage it overall.
Pros
- Contains two refills so you can have up to two months of calmbing vibes in your home
- The smell of the diffuser is subtle so it's great if you're sensitive to strong scents
Cons
- Some reviewers mention it hasn't managed to completely solve their dog's anxious behaviour
Size: | 48ml x 2 |
Item form: | Plug-in diffuser |
Coverage: | Up to 700 sq ft |
Lifespan: | Up to 60 days |
- Contains two refills
- Advanced pheromone technology
Other dog calming products
Best dog calming spray

www.petsathome.com
Just like its plug-in counterpart, the Pet Remedy Calming Spray is packed with a natural blend of valerian, vetiver, sweet basil and sage, all working together to calm your pooch down. It’s designed to mimic GABA, a calming neurotransmitter, to help your furry friend feel more at ease in stressful situations, from vet visits to thunderstorms.
The beauty of this dog calming spray is that it can be used anywhere to calm your dog down wherever they are, such as in a travel bed, in the car or on your pup’s collar or bandana. Pet owners online love it for the convenience it offers. Just like with the Pet Remedy plug-in diffuser, reviewers mention the herbal scent of this spray is quite strong so it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. Overall, if you’re after a portable natural way to keep your pup calm, this Pet Remedy Calming Spray is worth a try.
Pros
- Mimics GABA, a calming neurotransmitter, to help your dog feel more at ease
- Contains natural ingredients, blending valerian, vetiver, sweet basil and sage together
Cons
- Just like the Pet Remedy plug-in, reviewers find the herbal scent to be quite strong
Item form: | Spray |
Size: | 200ml |
Lifespan: | N/A |
Coverage: | N/A |
- Pets at Home award-winning product
Best dog calming travel spray

If rides in the car are enough to send your pooch into a spiral of anxiety, the ADAPTIL Calm Transport Spray is just what you need for your dog’s next journey. Designed to work just like the ADAPTIL Calm Home Diffuser that we’ve listed above, this handy spray bottle delivers the same comforting pheromones in a travel-friendly bottle, making it perfect for on-the-go relaxation.
Just a few spritzes 15 minutes before your dog gets into the car or enters another stressful situation and the calming effect can last up to five hours, which is something that impressed pet owners who reviewed this product. There are some reviewers who found the scent was a bit strong initially, though it does fade quickly.
Pros
- Long lasting as the calming effect can last for up to five hours
- In a travel friendly bottle so you can spritz it as needed on the go
Cons
- Some reviewers found the scent of this spray was a bit strong intially, though it does fade quickly
Item form: | Spray |
Size: | 60ml |
Coverage: | N/A |
Lifespan: | Up to five hours per individual spray |
- Effective for up to 5 hours
- Veterinary recommended
Best dog calming collar

For an alternative to dog calming plug-ins and sprays, the ADAPTIL Calm On-the-Go Collar will be with your dog to help them calm down wherever they go. Like other ADAPTIL dog calming products, it uses a synthetic dog-appeasing pheromone (similar to the comforting scent mother dogs release for their puppies to help adult dogs feel safe and secure.
As it’s designed to be worn all the time, this collar is particularly useful in cases of separation anxiety as it’ll ensure the comforting smell is with them at all times even when you’ve nipped to the shops or headed to work. Customers like that this collar is adjustable so you can find the perfect fit for your pooch. Due to the size of this collar and the amount of synthetic pheromone in it, it’s designed for large dogs at around 50kg. If you have a particularly anxious pooch, this collar is also available as a bundle with the dog calming plug-in to keep your pooch chilled out both at home and on the go.
Pros
- Designed to be worn all the time so the calming effect is with your dog wherever they go to ensure they feel safe and secure
- Fit of collar can be adjusted to be comfortable as possible for your pooch
Cons
- Not suitable for small dogs as this collar is designed for large breeds around 50kg
Item form: | Collar |
Size: | Medium-Large 62.5cm (small also available 37.5cm) |
Coverage: | N/A |
Lifespan: | Last for four weeks |
- Veterinary recommended
- Scientifically proven - over 28 published clinical papers support the use of Adaptil
Best dog calming supplement

If you’re looking for a supplement to naturally ease your pup’s anxiety, YuMOVE Calming Care for Adult Dogs is one worth considering. Packed with calming ingredients like hydrolysate and lemon balm, these supplements are sure to soothe your pooch. Just remember though that supplements aren't instant fixers as they take a few weeks of regular taking to help your pet, but being patient is worth it as you’ll get a calmer, happier dog in return.
For dogs that struggle with loud noises, separation anxiety and general nervousness, this supplement has worked wonders say pet parents online. They also appreciate that the added vitamins and minerals to contribute to your dog’s overall wellbeing are a nice bonus. As it’s a supplement tablet, you may find it tricky to get your dog to take it compared to other calming products but if you can sneak it into their food, you may be on to a winner.
Pros
- Packed with calming ingredients like hydrolysate and lemon balm to keep your dog calm
- Also contain added vitamins and minerals to contribute to your dog's overall wellbeing
Cons
- Your dog will need to take these regularly and for a couple of week before you start seeing the benefits
Item form: | Tablet |
Quantity: | 60 Tablets |
- Contains natural fish protein hydrolysates supports your dog's brain
- UK's no.1 veterinary joint supplement brand
Best anxiety jacket for dogs

Sometimes, all a dog wants is a good fuss and some attention from their owner and the Thundershirt will feel like a warm hug for your pup without you having to hold them all day. Inspired by the soothing effects of swaddling or using a weighted blanket, this Thundershirt Anxiety Jacket will apply gentle, constant pressure to make them feel embraced and comforted. If your dog usually trembles during thunderstorms, at the sound of fireworks or even car rides, the Thundershirt is designed to help them feel more secure and you can tighten the straps so it fits perfectly and applies the right amount of pressure.
Many reviewers swear by this anxiety jacket for dogs, saying they can see their dog visibly relax as soon as the vest goes on. While it has a tight fit, it’s also lightweight and breathable so your pooch stays comfy without overheating. It goes without saying though that this may not be suitable for every dog as some dogs tend to freeze up when they’ve got something tight fitting on their body but as the fit is adjustable, you may be able to loosen it enough that they feel more comfortable.
Pros
- Simply effective
- Versatile range of uses
Cons
- Doesn't work for all dogs
Item form: | Anti-anxiety jacket |
Size: | X Small, Small, Medium, Large, X Large |
Dog calming products FAQs
Do calming plug-ins work?
Pheromones are chemicals released naturally by dogs and cats that act as imperceptible communication. Calming pheromones are emitted by the mother to calm and reassure her litter and calming diffusers and sprays mimic the natural calming neurotransmitter called GABA, to calm their nerves. This tricks the fired-up nerve cell into thinking it is getting a calming message from the brain. Scents are also known to have a calming effect on humans, such as lavender or jasmine.
What do I when my dog is anxious?
If your dog is displaying signs of anxiety, you should first reach out to your vet to identify the trigger for the stress and rule out if it is an underlying health problem.
Once you have contacted your vet and are reassured that there aren't any health conditions to be aware of, then diffusers and plug-ins are a great way to try to calm their nerves.
While we might not be able to cure their fear the way we’d like to, we can invest in remedies that help keep them calm and reassure them that everything will be alright.
Understanding dog behaviour and body language
It is good to keep an eye on your dog's behaviours to see what could make them anxious or feel threatened.
Below is a infographic from the RSPCA is a helpful guide for reading your dog's body language and what their behaviours mean:
What is the best medication to calm a dog?
If you have any questions in regards to your dog suffering with anxiety and what medications to help them be more calm, you should always consult your vet, as wrong dosing and interactions with other conditions can harm your dog. With vet guidance, there are some over the counter medications that could help your anxious pup, including melatonin - a natural supplement that can help with mild anxiety and sleep issues. Supplements and dog chews containing L-theanine, L-tryptophan, or chamomile can help with mild anxiety.
How can I calm my dog down fast at home?
If your dog suddenly becomes anxious in their own home, it is best to stay calm, avoid yelling and shouting and create a safe space for your dog. This can be in their bed, in your arms and with the help of their favourite toy or blanket. Gentle, slow petting or massaging your dog’s ears or chest can help lower their stress levels.
Of course, you can always offer a distraction, such as chew toy, puzzle or cuddly toy to distract their focus. Background noise, such as white noise and classical music can help block out loud noises. If your dog loves a cuddle, investing in an anxiety wrap (like a ThunderShirt) provides calming pressure that can help them settle.
Do Adaptil plug ins work?
It really depends on your dog and if they react to it. Adaptil plug-ins have become popular as they release synthetic versions of the pheromones that mother dogs produce to comfort their puppies. These pheromones are odorless to humans but are intended to help dogs feel secure and relaxed.
If your dog suffers from mild anxiety and you're looking for a cost-effective and easy-to-use solution, Adaptil plug-ins are worth trying. However, for more severe anxiety or if you don't think they are doing anything, always consult your vet for advice.

Ellen Kinsey is a senior health and wellness product writer for Take A Break, specialising in natural health. She lives and breathes all things food, travel and wellness.