Valerian For Dogs Sleep

Valerian root is said to improve sleep and reduce stress it s no wonder owners ask if their dogs can benefit.

Valerian for dogs sleep. Taking valerian might also improve the sleep quality of people who are withdrawing from the use of sleeping pills. Valerian for dogs valerian is given to dogs because of its ability to calm them down without altering brain function like a pharmaceutical sedative would. Promoting quality sleep and reducing anxiety are just two of the effects that valerian can have on dogs and cats. Unfortunately this herbal remedy lacks sufficient clinical data especially when it comes to dogs.

It is also beneficial for dogs who have difficulty falling asleep or have an irregular sleep cycle. In addition to its anti anxiety properties valerian can be used to treat hyperactivity restlessness insomnia and other stress and anxiety conditions. Diphenydramine has many uses but is commonly used as an antihistamine and sleep aid for people. Although valerian is thought to be fairly safe side effects such as headache dizziness stomach problems or sleeplessness may occur.

It may appear to work but here s the thing. In fact there is little actual evidence for valerian root s effectiveness. Valerian may not be safe if you re pregnant or breast feeding. If your pet gets into this substance lower amounts may just increase tiredness.

Should you give your dog valerian root. Valerian is a excellent remedy for dogs in the following cases. It is also used when appropriately advised by a veterinarian in dogs and cats for similar reasons. But the national institutes of health nih describes an old study showing that 400 mg of valerian root extract did significantly improve sleep compared to placebo in 128 healthy volunteers.

Valerian basics valerian root is commonly found in the herbal remedies section of stores and there are some preparations made specifically for dogs as well. Most studies in people with sleeping difficulty used 400 900 mg of valerian extract which has been shown to be a safe and effective dosage. However some research suggests that valerian does not relieve insomnia as fast. For the best results take it 30 minutes to two hours.

And it has not been evaluated to determine if it s safe for children under 3 years old.