🐶 Trazodone for Dogs
Trazodone has become a widely used medication in the U.S. for managing anxiety, stress, and post-surgical recovery in dogs. Originally designed as an antidepressant for humans, veterinary professionals now prescribe it off-label to help dogs stay calm in stressful situations. But is trazodone safe? How does it work? And what should pet owners know before giving it to their dogs?
🔑 Key Takeaways: Quick Answers to Common Questions
| Question | Quick Answer 🐾 |
|---|---|
| What is trazodone used for? | Anxiety, post-surgery calming, and behavior modification. |
| How does it work? | Increases serotonin levels to promote relaxation. |
| Is it FDA-approved for dogs? | No, but widely used off-label in veterinary medicine. |
| How long does trazodone take to work? | 30 minutes to 2 hours for single doses. |
| How often can I give trazodone? | Every 8 to 24 hours (as prescribed by a vet). |
| Is trazodone a sedative? | No, but it has a calming effect. |
| What are the side effects? | Drowsiness, upset stomach, or hyperactivity in rare cases. |
| Can I use it with other medications? | Sometimes, but caution is needed—consult your vet. |
| Can trazodone be given long-term? | Yes, under vet supervision, but requires tapering off if stopped. |
🧪 What Is Trazodone, and How Does It Work in Dogs?
Trazodone is a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI) that modulates serotonin levels in the brain. Unlike sedatives, it calms dogs without completely sedating them, making it a popular choice for situational anxiety, surgery recovery, and chronic behavioral issues.
📊 How Trazodone Affects a Dog’s Brain & Behavior
| Effect | How It Works 🧠 | Benefit for Dogs 🐕 |
|---|---|---|
| Increases serotonin | Regulates mood and relaxation | Reduces fear, anxiety, and stress |
| Blocks serotonin receptors | Prevents overstimulation | Helps dogs feel calmer without heavy sedation |
| Mild muscle relaxation | Lowers physical tension | Reduces restlessness in anxious or injured dogs |
💡 Pro Tip: Trazodone is often paired with behavior modification techniques to help dogs develop long-term coping skills instead of relying solely on medication.
🩺 What Are the Most Common Uses of Trazodone for Dogs?
Veterinarians in the U.S. prescribe trazodone for a variety of anxiety-related and medical conditions.
📊 Situations Where Trazodone is Most Commonly Used
| Use Case 🏥 | How Trazodone Helps 🐕 | Typical Dosage 💊 |
|---|---|---|
| Separation Anxiety 😢 | Reduces panic & distress when left alone | Given daily or as needed |
| Fireworks & Thunderstorms 🎆🌩️ | Lowers fear responses to loud noises | Given 1-2 hours before event |
| Vet Visits & Travel ✈️ | Keeps dogs calm in unfamiliar environments | Single dose before event |
| Post-Surgical Confinement 🏥 | Prevents restlessness and injury risk | Short-term daily use |
| Chronic Anxiety & OCD 🌀 | Helps with compulsive behaviors | Long-term, adjusted as needed |
💡 Pro Tip: Many pet owners in the U.S. use trazodone around holidays like the Fourth of July when fireworks trigger severe anxiety in dogs.
💊 What Is the Correct Dosage of Trazodone for Dogs?
Trazodone dosages are based on a dog’s weight, anxiety level, and health condition. Your vet will determine the correct dose, but general guidelines exist.
📊 Trazodone Dosage Chart for Dogs
| Dog’s Weight (lbs) ⚖️ | Starting Dosage (mg) 💊 | Maximum Safe Dosage (mg) 🔥 |
|---|---|---|
| Under 20 lbs | 10-25 mg | 50 mg |
| 20-50 lbs | 25-100 mg | 150 mg |
| 50-100 lbs | 100-200 mg | 300 mg |
| Over 100 lbs | 200-300 mg | 400 mg |
💡 Pro Tip: Start at the lower end and adjust based on your dog’s reaction. A single dose usually takes effect in 30 minutes to 2 hours.
⚠️ What Are the Potential Side Effects of Trazodone in Dogs?
Trazodone is well-tolerated in most dogs, but some may experience mild to moderate side effects.
📊 Common Side Effects & How to Manage Them
| Side Effect 🚨 | Why It Happens ❌ | How to Prevent It ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Drowsiness 😴 | Brain adjusting to increased serotonin | Give in the evening or at bedtime |
| Upset Stomach 🤢 | Sensitivity to medication | Administer with food |
| Hyperactivity 🚀 | Rare paradoxical reaction | Reduce dose, switch medications if needed |
| Wobbly Movements 🦴 | Mild muscle relaxation | Lower dose, monitor behavior |
💡 Pro Tip: If side effects persist beyond a few days, consult your vet to adjust the dosage or explore alternatives.
🛑 When Should You NOT Give Trazodone to Your Dog?
While trazodone is generally safe, it should NOT be given in certain situations without veterinary approval.
📊 When to Avoid Trazodone in Dogs
| Condition ⚠️ | Why It’s a Risk ❌ | Safer Alternative ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Pregnant or Nursing Dogs 🤰 | Potential fetal risks | Consult your vet for alternatives |
| Heart Disease ❤️ | May cause blood pressure changes | Lower dose or different medication |
| Liver/Kidney Disease 🩸 | Slower metabolism of the drug | Adjusted dosage or alternative meds |
| Serotonin Syndrome Risk 🚨 | Combining with SSRIs like fluoxetine | Avoid trazodone with other serotonin-based drugs |
💡 Pro Tip: NEVER mix trazodone with MAOIs or certain antidepressants—it can lead to serotonin syndrome, a life-threatening condition.
🏥 How Does Trazodone Compare to Other Anxiety Medications?
Veterinarians sometimes use trazodone alone or in combination with other medications. Here’s how it compares:
📊 Trazodone vs. Other Canine Anxiety Medications
| Medication 💊 | Use Case 🏥 | Effect Duration ⏳ | Side Effect Risk 🚨 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trazodone | Situational & chronic anxiety | 8-12 hours | Low |
| Gabapentin | Nerve pain & anxiety | 4-6 hours | Mild sedation |
| Fluoxetine (Prozac) | Long-term anxiety & aggression | Takes weeks to work | Higher risk of serotonin syndrome |
| Diazepam (Valium) | Acute panic attacks | Short-acting (few hours) | Can cause dependence |
💡 Pro Tip: If trazodone alone isn’t effective, your vet may combine it with other meds like gabapentin for enhanced calming effects.
💬 Expert Responses to Your Questions!
🗨️ Comment 1: “How long does trazodone last in dogs? Will it keep my dog calm all day?”
✅ Trazodone typically lasts between 8 to 12 hours, but the exact duration depends on your dog’s size, metabolism, dosage, and overall health. Some dogs experience prolonged effects, while others may need a second dose within the same day for consistent anxiety relief.
📊 How Long Trazodone Lasts Based on Dosage & Dog Size
| Dog Weight (lbs) ⚖️ | Typical Dose (mg) 💊 | Effect Duration ⏳ | Best Time to Administer 🕒 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 20 lbs | 10-50 mg | 6-8 hours | 1-2 hours before event |
| 20-50 lbs | 50-150 mg | 8-10 hours | Evening or stressful period |
| 50-100 lbs | 100-200 mg | 10-12 hours | Before travel, surgery, or anxiety trigger |
| Over 100 lbs | 200-300 mg | 12+ hours | Overnight use for chronic anxiety |
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog needs all-day anxiety control, discuss split dosing or combining trazodone with another medication like gabapentin for longer-lasting effects.
🗨️ Comment 2: “Can I give trazodone to my dog every day, or should it only be used occasionally?”
✅ Trazodone can be given daily or as needed, depending on why it’s prescribed. For situational anxiety (e.g., fireworks, vet visits), it’s best used occasionally. However, for chronic anxiety or post-surgery recovery, daily dosing may be recommended by your vet.
📊 Daily vs. Occasional Trazodone Use
| Use Case 📆 | Best Dosing Strategy 💊 | Why It Works 🏆 |
|---|---|---|
| Fireworks, Thunderstorms 🎆 | Single dose, 1-2 hours before event | Helps dog relax without overmedicating |
| Vet Visits & Grooming 🏥 | As needed, given before appointment | Reduces stress-related panting, pacing |
| Separation Anxiety 😢 | Daily dosing recommended | Keeps dog calm when left alone |
| Post-Surgery Recovery 🏥 | Daily for 2-4 weeks | Prevents restlessness & injury risk |
💡 Pro Tip: If used long-term, trazodone should be tapered down gradually to prevent withdrawal symptoms like restlessness or heightened anxiety.
🗨️ Comment 3: “Can trazodone cause my dog to be more hyper instead of calm?”
⚠️ Yes! A small percentage of dogs experience a paradoxical reaction to trazodone, meaning instead of feeling calm, they become hyperactive, agitated, or restless.
📊 Why Some Dogs React Oppositely to Trazodone
| Reason | How It Affects Dogs 🚀 | What to Do ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Serotonin Overload 🧠 | Instead of calming, excess serotonin increases energy levels | Lower dose or try a different med |
| Individual Sensitivity 🏆 | Some dogs process trazodone differently | Switch to gabapentin or fluoxetine |
| Underlying Anxiety Disorder 🌀 | Dog’s baseline stress is too high for trazodone alone | Combine with behavior therapy |
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog becomes hyperactive or agitated after trazodone, do not increase the dose—consult your vet for alternative solutions.
🗨️ Comment 4: “Can I give my dog trazodone and Benadryl together for anxiety?”
⚠️ Use caution! While trazodone and Benadryl (diphenhydramine) are sometimes given together, combining them can increase drowsiness. Always check with your vet first.
📊 Comparing Trazodone vs. Benadryl for Anxiety
| Medication 💊 | How It Works 🧠 | Best Used For 🐶 | Can Be Combined? ✅❌ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trazodone | Increases serotonin, promotes relaxation | Generalized & situational anxiety | ✅ Sometimes (vet approval needed) |
| Benadryl (Diphenhydramine) | Blocks histamine, mild sedative | Mild anxiety & allergies | ⚠️ Risk of excess sedation |
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog is still anxious after trazodone alone, ask your vet if an alternative sedative like gabapentin is safer than combining with Benadryl.
🗨️ Comment 5: “What should I do if my dog accidentally takes too much trazodone?”
🚨 Trazodone overdoses can be serious! If your dog ingests too much, call your vet or a poison control hotline immediately.
📊 Signs of Trazodone Overdose & What to Do
| Symptom 🚨 | Severity Level ❗ | Immediate Action 🏥 |
|---|---|---|
| Excessive sedation 😴 | Mild-Moderate | Monitor closely, provide water |
| Uncoordinated movements 🤕 | Moderate | Keep dog calm, limit movement |
| Rapid heart rate ❤️🔥 | Severe | Contact vet ASAP 🚨 |
| Vomiting & diarrhea 🤮 | Moderate | Ensure hydration, monitor for worsening |
| Seizures or collapse 🛑 | Emergency! | Seek emergency vet care immediately |
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog ingests more than 3x their prescribed dose, DO NOT wait—contact a vet immediately for emergency guidance.
🗨️ Comment 6: “Can trazodone help with car anxiety in dogs?”
✅ Yes! Trazodone is often prescribed for travel anxiety, as it reduces stress without heavy sedation.
📊 How Trazodone Helps with Car Travel Anxiety
| Travel Anxiety Problem 🚗 | How Trazodone Helps ✅ | When to Give 🕒 |
|---|---|---|
| Panting, drooling 🤤 | Calms overstimulation from motion | 30-60 min before the trip |
| Pacing, whining 😢 | Helps dog feel more secure | Give with light food to avoid nausea |
| Vomiting in car 🤮 | Reduces stress-induced nausea | Combine with anti-nausea meds if needed |
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog gets carsick, ask your vet about Cerenia, an anti-nausea medication that pairs well with trazodone.
🗨️ Comment 7: “Is trazodone addictive? Will my dog become dependent on it?”
🚫 No, trazodone is NOT considered addictive in dogs. However, if given long-term, it should be tapered off gradually to prevent rebound anxiety.
📊 Trazodone Withdrawal & How to Safely Stop Use
| Withdrawal Risk ⚠️ | What Happens If Stopped Suddenly? ❌ | How to Prevent Issues ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Increased Anxiety 😢 | Dogs may become more anxious than before | Gradually reduce dose over 1-2 weeks |
| Restlessness 🚀 | Some dogs struggle to sleep or settle | Adjust bedtime routine & enrichment |
| Mood Changes 🌀 | Mild irritability or whining | Provide extra comfort & support |
💡 Pro Tip: If stopping trazodone after long-term use, taper by reducing the dose by 25% every few days to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
🗨️ Comment 8: “Can trazodone be used for aggression in dogs?”
⚠️ Trazodone is not a primary treatment for aggression but can help in cases where anxiety triggers reactive behavior. It works by reducing stress and tension, which may lower reactivity levels in dogs who become aggressive due to fear or overstimulation. However, it should not be used as a standalone solution for aggression.
📊 When Trazodone Helps vs. When It Doesn’t for Aggressive Dogs
| Aggression Type 🚨 | Will Trazodone Help? ✅❌ | Better Alternatives 🏆 |
|---|---|---|
| Fear-Based Aggression 🐕💥 | ✅ Yes, if stress is the trigger | Combined with counter-conditioning training |
| Territorial Aggression 🏡 | ❌ Not a cure—may not change behavior | Behavioral therapy & structured training |
| Pain-Related Aggression 🩺 | ❌ No—cause must be treated | Vet exam & pain management first |
| Dominance or Food Aggression 🍖 | ❌ Trazodone won’t fix resource guarding | Professional behaviorist intervention |
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog shows signs of aggression, consult a certified behaviorist before using trazodone. Medication alone won’t address deeper behavioral issues.
🗨️ Comment 9: “Can I give trazodone to my dog with epilepsy or a history of seizures?”
⚠️ Use with caution! While trazodone is not known to directly cause seizures, it can lower the seizure threshold in some dogs, meaning it could increase the likelihood of a seizure in predisposed dogs.
📊 Trazodone for Dogs with Seizure Disorders
| Condition ⚠️ | Is Trazodone Safe? ✅❌ | Precautionary Measures 🏥 |
|---|---|---|
| Mild Anxiety (No History of Seizures) 🧠 | ✅ Generally Safe | Monitor for unusual reactions |
| Epileptic Dogs ⚡ | ⚠️ Use with caution—vet approval required | May interfere with anti-seizure meds |
| Dogs on Phenobarbital or Keppra 💊 | ❌ Avoid or use alternative | Risk of drug interactions |
| Post-Seizure Recovery 🛑 | ❌ Not recommended | Could worsen nervous system sensitivity |
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog has a history of seizures, discuss safer anxiety management options with your vet, such as gabapentin, CBD (vet-approved), or structured behavioral desensitization.
🗨️ Comment 10: “Does trazodone make dogs sleepy the next day?”
✅ Yes, some dogs experience lingering drowsiness after taking trazodone, especially with higher doses. The half-life of trazodone in dogs is approximately 3-6 hours, but residual effects may extend into the next day.
📊 Why Some Dogs Feel Drowsy After Trazodone & How to Reduce It
| Factor 💤 | Why It Happens 🧪 | How to Minimize It ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| High Dosage ⚖️ | More trazodone means longer-lasting effects | Start with lower dose & increase gradually |
| Slow Metabolism 🐢 | Some dogs process meds slower than others | Give earlier in the evening to reduce next-day grogginess |
| Combining with Other Sedatives 💊 | Can create compounded drowsiness | Avoid mixing with gabapentin, Benadryl, or sedatives |
| Age & Health Factors 👴 | Senior dogs or those with liver/kidney disease may metabolize slower | Adjust dose based on vet guidance |
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog seems excessively drowsy, talk to your vet about lowering the dose or switching to an alternative anxiety medication with a shorter duration.
🗨️ Comment 11: “Is trazodone safe for dogs with heart disease?”
⚠️ Caution is advised! Trazodone can slightly affect heart rate and blood pressure, which may be risky for dogs with pre-existing heart conditions. However, in some cases, vets may still prescribe it at a carefully adjusted dose.
📊 Trazodone Use in Dogs with Heart Conditions
| Heart Condition ❤️ | Is Trazodone Safe? ✅❌ | Alternative Anxiety Treatments 🏥 |
|---|---|---|
| Mild Murmurs 🩺 | ✅ With vet approval | Low-dose trazodone or natural calming aids |
| Arrhythmia (Irregular Heartbeat) ⚡ | ❌ Not recommended | Gabapentin, low-stress behavioral training |
| Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) 💔 | ❌ Avoid if possible | Adjust routine to reduce anxiety naturally |
| High Blood Pressure 🔴 | ⚠️ Use with caution | Vet-monitored dose adjustment |
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog has a heart condition, always ask your vet if lifestyle changes, pheromone therapy, or alternative medications might be safer than trazodone.
🗨️ Comment 12: “Can I cut trazodone tablets in half or crush them?”
✅ Yes, trazodone tablets can be split, but crushing them is not recommended. Cutting them helps with accurate dosing, but crushing may alter absorption rates or make the taste unpleasant for your dog.
📊 Best Ways to Administer Trazodone
| Method 🏥 | Safe to Do? ✅❌ | Why It Matters 💡 |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting the Tablet in Half ✂️ | ✅ Yes | Helps adjust smaller doses for smaller dogs |
| Crushing the Tablet 💊 | ❌ Not recommended | Alters absorption & taste |
| Hiding in Peanut Butter 🥜 | ✅ Works well | Masks bitter taste |
| Using Pill Pockets 🍖 | ✅ Great option | Easier to swallow without resistance |
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog refuses the pill, try wrapping it in low-fat cheese or canned food instead of crushing it.
🗨️ Comment 13: “Can I use trazodone and CBD oil together for my dog’s anxiety?”
⚠️ Be cautious! Combining trazodone and CBD has not been extensively studied, and effects may vary between dogs. While some owners report that CBD enhances relaxation, others notice excessive drowsiness or mild lethargy when both are used together.
📊 Trazodone + CBD: Safe or Risky?
| Factor ⚠️ | What Happens When Combined? ❌✅ | How to Reduce Risks 🏥 |
|---|---|---|
| Increased Sedation 😴 | May make dogs overly sleepy | Use low doses of both |
| Slower Metabolism ⚖️ | CBD can alter drug breakdown in the liver | Space out doses by 4-6 hours |
| Lack of Veterinary Studies 🧐 | No large-scale research available | Consult a holistic vet before use |
💡 Pro Tip: If you want to try CBD alongside trazodone, start with a small CBD dose separately before combining them.
🗨️ Comment 14: “Can trazodone be used for long-term anxiety treatment, or is it just for short-term use?”
✅ Trazodone can be used for both short-term and long-term anxiety management, but its role differs depending on the dog’s condition. While it’s highly effective for situational anxiety (e.g., vet visits, thunderstorms), it can also be part of a long-term treatment plan when paired with behavioral therapy and other interventions.
📊 Short-Term vs. Long-Term Use of Trazodone
| Treatment Duration ⏳ | When It’s Used 🏥 | How It Works 🧠 | Considerations ⚠️ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short-Term (Situational Use) | Vet visits, grooming, fireworks, travel ✈️ | Fast-acting, reduces acute stress | Works within 30-120 minutes, but not a cure for chronic anxiety |
| Long-Term (Daily Use) | Separation anxiety, noise phobias, behavioral disorders | Helps regulate mood over time | May require adjusting the dose over time & tapering off if discontinued |
| Combination Therapy | Paired with SSRIs like fluoxetine (Prozac) | Trazodone boosts effectiveness of long-term anxiety meds | Typically used as a supplement to another daily med |
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog needs long-term anxiety treatment, trazodone alone may not be enough—combining it with training, environmental changes, and sometimes SSRIs (like fluoxetine) can improve long-term results.
🗨️ Comment 15: “How does trazodone compare to gabapentin for anxiety? Which is better?”
🆚 Trazodone and gabapentin both help with anxiety, but they work differently and are used for different types of anxiety. Trazodone affects serotonin levels, making it better for generalized or situational anxiety, while gabapentin targets nerve pain and mild sedation, often used for anxiety related to pain or hypersensitivity.
📊 Trazodone vs. Gabapentin: Which is Better for Your Dog?
| Factor 🏆 | Trazodone 💊 | Gabapentin 💊 | Which to Choose? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For… 🐕 | Situational & generalized anxiety | Mild sedation, pain-related anxiety | Depends on the cause of anxiety |
| Effect Speed ⚡ | 30-120 minutes | 60-90 minutes | Both work quickly |
| Duration ⏳ | 8-12 hours | 4-6 hours | Trazodone lasts longer |
| Sedation Level 😴 | Mild-moderate | Moderate-strong | Gabapentin is more sedating |
| Pain Relief 🦴 | ❌ No effect on pain | ✅ Great for joint & nerve pain | Gabapentin wins for pain-related anxiety |
💡 Pro Tip: Some vets prescribe both together for high-anxiety dogs or post-surgical recovery—gabapentin reduces pain while trazodone calms the mind.
🗨️ Comment 16: “Does trazodone help dogs sleep through the night?”
✅ Yes! Trazodone can promote restful sleep, especially for dogs who struggle with nighttime anxiety, restlessness, or post-surgical discomfort. While it’s not a dedicated sleep aid, its calming effect helps dogs relax, making it easier for them to fall and stay asleep.
📊 How Trazodone Helps with Sleep Issues in Dogs
| Sleep Problem 💤 | How Trazodone Helps ✅ | Best Dosage Timing 🕒 |
|---|---|---|
| Restlessness at night | Reduces anxiety, helps dogs settle | Give 30-60 min before bedtime |
| Frequent waking up | Mild sedation promotes deeper sleep | Can be combined with calming supplements |
| Post-surgical discomfort | Keeps dogs calm during recovery | Often prescribed short-term for healing |
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog still struggles to sleep, pairing trazodone with a structured nighttime routine, low lighting, and white noise can enhance relaxation.
🗨️ Comment 17: “What should I do if my dog vomits after taking trazodone?”
⚠️ Mild stomach upset is a possible side effect of trazodone, but vomiting is less common. If your dog vomits after taking it, it may be due to stomach sensitivity or taking it on an empty stomach.
📊 Steps to Take If Your Dog Vomits After Trazodone
| Possible Cause 🤢 | Why It Happens ❌ | Solution ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Took on an empty stomach | Trazodone can irritate the stomach lining | Give with food or a small treat |
| Dose too high | Some dogs are more sensitive to medication | Ask vet about lowering the dose |
| Allergic reaction (rare) 🛑 | Unusual vomiting, swelling, or lethargy | Seek emergency vet care immediately |
💡 Pro Tip: If your dog vomits consistently after trazodone, your vet may switch to a liquid or compounded form that’s easier on the stomach.
🗨️ Comment 18: “Can I give trazodone to my senior dog?”
✅ Yes, but with extra caution! Older dogs metabolize medications more slowly, meaning doses may need to be lower to avoid excessive sedation or prolonged effects.
📊 Trazodone for Senior Dogs: What to Watch For
| Senior Dog Concern 👴🐶 | Is Trazodone Safe? ✅❌ | Special Considerations 🏥 |
|---|---|---|
| Cognitive decline (dog dementia) 🧠 | ✅ Can reduce nighttime anxiety | Monitor for confusion or over-sedation |
| Liver/kidney disease 🩺 | ⚠️ Requires dose adjustment | Vet may lower dose for safer processing |
| Arthritis & mobility issues 🦴 | ✅ Helps calm anxiety but not a pain reliever | May be paired with joint supplements |
💡 Pro Tip: If your senior dog sleeps too much or acts confused after trazodone, talk to your vet about reducing the dose or trying an alternative medication.
🗨️ Comment 19: “Can I use trazodone for my dog’s crate training or separation anxiety?”
✅ Trazodone can help with crate training and separation anxiety, but it should be used alongside training techniques, not as a standalone fix.
📊 How Trazodone Helps with Crate Training & Separation Anxiety
| Behavior Issue 🏡 | How Trazodone Helps ✅ | Best Training Pairing 🐾 |
|---|---|---|
| Crate Anxiety 🏠 | Reduces initial stress of being confined | Use positive reinforcement training |
| Separation Anxiety 😢 | Lowers panic when owner leaves | Combine with desensitization training |
| Excessive Barking or Whining 🐕🔊 | Eases overexcitement and distress | Pair with interactive toys for distraction |
💡 Pro Tip: Give trazodone 30-60 minutes before leaving and combine with long-lasting chews or puzzle toys to create a positive association with alone time.
