Calming Bites Soft Chew Supplement
Verified Jun 6, 2026
A soft chew calming supplement for dogs that uses a blend of botanicals and amino acids rather than sedating medications. It features chamomile, valerian root, passionflower, L-theanine, ashwagandha, L-tryptophan, and magnesium citrate to help support relaxation, with a palatable base that includes beef liver and peanut butter flavor. This product is intended as an add-on to a complete diet for dogs of all sizes who need extra support during stressful situations.
This is a thoughtfully formulated calming supplement that relies on several well-known relaxation-support ingredients, including L-theanine, ashwagandha, chamomile, valerian, and L-tryptophan. It’s designed to be a palatable soft chew, making it easier to give to most dogs. As with any supplement, it should be used alongside, not instead of, a complete and balanced diet, and individual dogs may respond differently to these ingredients.
The KibbleLab Score (1–10) is assessed from publicly available product data. Our evaluation is science-based, not marketing-based.
KibbleLab may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through a link. No one can pay for a higher score, or to change what we recommend for your pet.
At a Glance
KibbleLab Review
Strengths
- Contains multiple calming-support ingredients such as L-theanine (Suntheanine), ashwagandha, chamomile, valerian root, and L-tryptophan, which are commonly used to support relaxation in pets.
- Soft chew format with beef liver and peanut butter flavoring can make administration easier for dogs that dislike pills or liquids.
- Includes natural preservatives like mixed tocopherols and citric acid, which help maintain product stability.
- Formulated as a supplement, so it can be used alongside most complete and balanced dog foods for additional stress-support when needed.
Considerations
- This is a supplement, not a complete diet, so it doesn’t provide full nutrition and must be fed with a regular, balanced dog food.
- Includes beef liver and peanut ingredients, which may not be suitable for dogs with beef or peanut allergies or sensitivities.
- Some dogs can be more sensitive to calming botanicals such as valerian and ashwagandha; it’s wise to introduce slowly and monitor for any change in behavior, stool, or appetite.
Full Ingredient List
Ingredients and analysis reflect manufacturer data at the time of our last update and can change without notice. Always check the actual product packaging before feeding.
Ingredient filtering helps identify compatible options but is not a substitute for a veterinary elimination diet.
Top 5 Ingredients Explained
01
Chamomile
Chamomile is an herbal botanical commonly used in pet supplements, treats and topical preparations as a mild calming, anti‑inflammatory and digestive aid rather than a primary nutrient source, with flavonoids and terpenoids that can help soothe gastrointestinal upset, skin irritation and mild anxiety in dogs and cats. It is generally safe in small, properly formulated amounts but can trigger allergic reactions in animals sensitive to the Asteraceae family, may interact with blood‑thinning medications, and concentrated essential oils or extracts should be avoided without veterinary guidance.
02
Hemp Seed
Hemp seed is used in pet foods as a plant-based source of protein, fiber and concentrated polyunsaturated fats (notably omega‑3 and omega‑6), and is commonly added as whole or hulled seeds, meal, or oil. It can support skin and coat health and supply digestible amino acids and micronutrients, but is calorie‑dense and should be treated as a supplemental ingredient (especially for cats, which rely on animal protein), and owners should choose reputable products since hulled seeds contain negligible THC/CBD but contamination, poor processing, or high fat content can be a concern for pets with pancreatitis.
03
Valerian Root
Valerian root is an herbal calming ingredient typically used in treats and supplements (not as a nutritional protein, vitamin or fiber) to help promote relaxation and reduce anxiety in dogs and cats through mild sedative/anxiolytic effects. Some cats may show an initial excited response followed by calmness; potential side effects include drowsiness, gastrointestinal upset, and interactions with other sedatives or certain medical conditions, so use under veterinary guidance and avoid in pregnant animals or pets with liver disease.
04
Passiflora Incarnata
Passiflora incarnata (passionflower) is a botanical ingredient used in pet supplements and calming treats for its mild sedative and anxiolytic properties rather than as a nutrient; it contains flavonoids and alkaloids that are thought to influence nervous system activity in dogs and cats. While it may help reduce mild anxiety or promote relaxation, evidence in pets is limited and it should be used cautiously—avoid combining with other central nervous system depressants, and consult your veterinarian before use in pregnant or nursing animals or pets on medications due to potential interactions and dosing concerns.
05
L-Theanine
L‑Theanine is a naturally occurring amino acid commonly added to pet foods and supplements as a calming/functional ingredient to help reduce stress and promote relaxation without sedation. It has shown promise in dogs (and to a lesser extent cats) for easing situational anxiety and improving calmness, but effects can vary, proper dosing is important, and owners should consult their veterinarian—especially if the pet is on medications or has health conditions—because it is an adjunct to, not a replacement for, behavioral training or medical treatment.
Product Details & Brand
Product Specs
Brand
Zesty Paws is a leading brand in the pet supplement category offering premium-quality chews, oils, and functional treats for dogs and cats. The brand is positioned as a fun and approachable yet scientifically informed line for pet wellness, targeting pet owners seeking preventive health solutions.
Visit Zesty PawsManufacturer
Zesty Paws follows U.S. FDA regulations for pet supplements and employs manufacturing partners that comply with cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practices). The company emphasizes ingredient transparency and product testing to ensure quality, potency, and safety.
Manufacturing details are compiled from public sources and not independently verified; they may not reflect contract manufacturing or co-packing.
Recall History
Zesty Paws Calming Bites Soft Chew Supplement has no recalls since 2014.
Source: FDA Pet Food Recall Database · Monitored daily
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Frequently Asked Questions
Has Zesty Paws ever been recalled?
We have no recalls on record for Zesty Paws. We monitor the FDA Pet Food Recall Database daily.
How does KibbleLab rate foods?
Our scores are based on ingredient composition, nutritional profile, AAFCO compliance, and health considerations. We don't penalize by-products, grains, or synthetic preservatives. Brands cannot pay for higher scores.
Is KibbleLab a substitute for veterinary advice?
No. KibbleLab provides data-driven food analysis, not medical advice. Always consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes, especially for pets with health conditions.
KibbleLab provides informational content only. This is not veterinary advice. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before changing your pet's diet.
KibbleLab may earn affiliate commissions through product links. No one can pay for a higher score, or to change what we recommend for your pet.
Product data sourced from manufacturer websites, AAFCO statements, and FDA recall database. Last verified dates reflect our most recent data check.
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