No one likes leaving their furry pal at home alone. It's even worse when your pup exhibits distressing behaviours. Separation anxiety is one of the most common causes of stress in dogs and can lead to barking, destructive behaviours and even depression in your pup. Not to mention break your heart! An increasingly common problem, in addition to training, there are also therapeutic options that can help.
One option is L-tryptophan, an essential amino acid that is important for the normal functioning of the body. Found in a variety of foods, including meat, dairy products, legumes and seeds it is a natural mood regulator. Often taken as a dietary supplement, L-tryptophan assists in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is involved in mood regulation and sleep.
There is a growing body of research indicating that, when used as a pet supplement, L-tryptophan can help with insomnia, anxiety, depression and behavioural problems. Some studies have shown that L-tryptophan may have a calming effect on dogs. For example, a study published in the journal "Psychopharmacology" found that L-tryptophan improved behaviour in dogs with separation anxiety when it was given in combination with a behaviour modification program. Another study published in the "Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association" found that L-tryptophan may be helpful in the treatment of fear and aggression in dogs.
In addition to its potential use in treating anxiety and other behavioural problems, L-tryptophan may also have other benefits for dogs. For example, some research suggests that L-tryptophan may help to improve appetite and weight gain in dogs with certain medical conditions. It may also have a positive effect on skin and coat health, and it may help to reduce inflammation in the body.
As our understanding improves, the potential uses and benefits of L-tryptophan for dogs continues to grow. Whilst important to note that L-tryptophan is not a substitute for proper training, the demonstrated calming benefits make it a supplement worth investigating particularly for pet owners whose dogs may exhibit anxious behaviours.
Disclaimer: as with any dietary supplement, should you be unsure it is important to consult with a veterinarian.
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