Melatonin for Dogs: Resolving Canine Anxiety

Like humans, dogs experience some of the same health issues especially in terms of mental health. While we typically do not think of psychological issues as being a health concern for our family pets, the fact is, many dogs experience anxiety in very specific situations. If you are concerned about your dog's lack of sleep at night, especially during times of inclement weather, you may want to consider how melatonin for dogs can be effective at resolving the night time jitters.

Melatonin is a natural occurring hormone in the human population and is also found in mammals, including dogs. As the hormone that induces our bodies into sleep and rest, it is essential for quality sleep at night. In dogs that have complications with anxiety and sleep, there may be a short of naturally occurring melatonin that can be corrected with supplements.

As with any health supplement that you intend to give to your dog, always speak with your family veterinarian about the need for anxiety treatment. In many cases, the veterinarian will approve of the use of one 3-milligram tablet of melatonin at night, around dinner time. Typically, the melatonin will begin to take effect within an hour and most dogs benefit from the relaxed state for as long as 12 hours. Just as the methods you use in comparing seasonal allergy medications, always choose a high quality melatonin product from a health provider that your veterinarian approves of.

Using melatonin in dogs is not a supplement that is required every night. If you find that your dog only has restless sleeping habits during the times of inclement weather, then provide the 3-milligram tablet of melatonin only on those nights. In addition, always provide water and good lifestyle choices of healthy diet and exercise to also boost sleep and relaxation when appropriate.

While dogs have many of the same ailments as humans, there are often treatment modifications that are made depending on who is being treated. In the case of restlessness and insomnia, both dogs and humans benefit from the use of natural supplementation melatonin in small doses. Always discuss treatment options with your veterinarian.

Sources: Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook, by Debra Eldredge