Again, these doses are only suggestions. If you want to reduce the risk of side effects, you should confirm the ideal dosage with your vet before serving it. When choosing a supplement, look for ones made specifically for dogs rather than using human options. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a flowering herb native to Europe and Asia with a distinct and somewhat unpleasant smell. Although the flowers can be used in remedies, it’s the root of the plant that is most often dried and used for medicinal purposes. Scutellaria (S.) barbata — also known as barbat skullcap — is another species with medicinal properties. Studies indicate that it has powerful antiviral and antibacterial effects. It’s difficult to determine a valerian root dosage for dogs because the amount varies greatly based on their weight and anxiety levels. You may be able to estimate a dosage for your dog, but it’s best to get a professional’s suggestion first. Talk to your vet about what they think is the ideal dosage for your dog. Valerian Root Dosage for Dogs Additionally, animal studies reveal that wogonin, a flavonoid compound in Chinese and American skullcap, is particularly effective in treating inflammatory allergic conditions like allergic rhinitis ( 12, 13).

Supplementing with skullcap may provide several benefits, though research in most of these areas is limited. May boost mood and reduce anxiety Overwhelming noises like thunderstorms and fireworks might send an anxious pup hiding under the bed. If you know there might be loud sounds happening soon, you can give your pup a valerian root supplement beforehand to lessen their fears. Keeping them further away from the sounds, such as in a basement or sound-proof room, may also make the noises seem less scary. Separation Anxiety Vacalopoulos A, Anderson R.K. Canine behavior problems reported by clients in a study of veterinary hospitals.(1993) Appl. Anim. Behav . Sci .37:84 Despite valerian’s popularity, no single herb will work efficiently on all dogs. So when considering whether to give your dog herbal alternatives to conventional medicines, it’s always worth discussing the options with your veterinarian or herbalist. Why should I use valerian? The benefits

The leaves of American skullcap have been used in traditional herbal medicine as a sedative and to treat conditions like anxiety and convulsions. The plant was prized by Native Americans for its powerful medicinal properties ( 3). If you have any concerns about using skullcap, you should consult with your healthcare provider before using it. If you notice any of these side effects while taking skullcap, stop using the herb and consult a healthcare provider. What Are The Side Effects Of Taking Skullcap? For example, American and Chinese skullcap is associated with liver damage and even liver failure in some people. That said, these cases mostly involved supplements containing multiple herbs, not just skullcap ( 21). Anticonvulsant effects. Orally supplementing with American skullcap has been shown to have anticonvulsant effects in rodents ( 15, 16).

They are not sedatives, in fact these are widely used for performance dogs such as agility and show dogs when they need to be alert and focussed. The herbs are nervines, that means they help to naturally relax the nervous system which reduces anxiety yet does not sedate muscles. Can I use the tablets and liquid together?Additionally, no type of skullcap is recommended for children or pregnant or breastfeeding women due to insufficient safety information ( 24, 25). Valerian - helps to support the natural relaxant pathways within the nervous system, without affecting muscles.

As with any supplement, use caution when purchasing skullcap. Rely on trusted companies that are certified by a third party or independent laboratory.Alternatively, the appropriate dosage can also be worked out by taking your dog’s weight and dividing it by one hundred and fifty pounds (the average weight of an adult). So for a thirty-pound dog, it would equate to twenty percent of an adult’s supplement dosage. If you give your dog dried valerian root on its own, you’ll likely need to give them between 1/4 and 1 1/2 teaspoons per dose. If the valerian root is a tincture, give them 1 1/2 to 3 teaspoons.