If you've ever found yourself Googling "natural ways to calm my dog," you're not alone. Whether it's thunderstorms, fireworks, or just everyday stressors, keeping our pups calm and stress-free is a top priority. Enter ashwagandha—a centuries-old herb that's stepping into the spotlight for canine wellness. And yes, it's as cool as it sounds.
What Is Ashwagandha, Anyway?
Ashwagandha (say it with me: ash-wah-GAHN-dah) is a staple in Ayurvedic medicine, where it’s been used for over 3,000 years to help humans with stress, energy, and overall health. The magic lies in its adaptogenic properties, which basically means it helps the body adapt to stress—whether that’s the mental kind or physical challenges. Think of it as nature's chill pill.
But here’s the twist: it’s not just for humans anymore. Modern science is diving into how this powerhouse herb can benefit our four-legged friends, and the results are impressive.
How Does Ashwagandha Help Dogs?
1. Stress Management:
Just like us, dogs have a stress hormone called cortisol. Elevated cortisol levels can lead to anxiety, digestive issues, and even impact immune health. Studies show that ashwagandha helps regulate cortisol, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation ([Choudhary et al., 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28931538/)).
2. Cognitive Support:
Ashwagandha isn’t just about keeping your dog zen; it can also support brain function. For aging dogs, this means sharper cognitive abilities and potentially delaying the effects of canine cognitive dysfunction (a.k.a. doggie dementia).
3. Immune Health:
Stress doesn’t just mess with moods—it’s also a known immune suppressor. Ashwagandha’s adaptogenic properties can help keep your dog’s immune system in tip-top shape, especially during stressful periods.
4. Energy Balance:
It might sound counterintuitive, but ashwagandha can help calm an anxious pup *and* give a boost to a lethargic one. It’s all about balance.
The Science Backs It Up
A 2021 study published in *Veterinary World* explored the effects of ashwagandha on canine anxiety and found significant reductions in stress-related behaviors like pacing and excessive barking ([D’Souza et al., 2021](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8472350/)).
How Stashios Uses Ashwagandha:
At Stashios, we stash what they need in what they love. That’s why we included ashwagandha in our Soothing Sauce—a bone broth-based product packed with calming ingredients. Think of it as the ultimate way to treat your dog while also supporting their overall well-being. Just drizzle it over their food or offer it as a standalone treat, and watch the calm vibes roll in. It also pairs perfectly with our Soothing Saucer, which is specifically designed to elicit calming behaviors. We created the Soothing Sauce to work seamlessly with the Soothing Saucer, giving your dog the ultimate calming experience.
Is Ashwagandha Safe for Dogs?
When used in appropriate doses, ashwagandha is generally considered safe for dogs. However, it’s always a good idea to consult your vet, especially if your dog has existing health conditions or is on medication.
The Takeaway
Ashwagandha is a natural, science-backed way to support your dog's stress levels, brain health, and overall wellness. Whether your pup’s a firecracker during storms or just needs a little extra TLC, this herb might be the game-changer you’ve been searching for. And with products like Stashios Soothing Sauce, incorporating ashwagandha into your dog’s routine has never been easier.
Stephanie Beetsch CCN, CYNX-L
