7 Safe, Natural Sleep Enhancers for Dogs Who Pace at Night

Pumpkin is not just a seasonal favorite for humans—it’s also a great digestive aid for dogs. A calm stomach can lead to more restful sleep, especially if your dog’s pacing is linked to GI discomfort. A fiber-rich option like Pupkin Probiotics and Prebiotics with Pumpkin For Dogs (on Amazon) combines the digestive benefits of pumpkin with gut-supporting probiotics, helping to soothe your dog’s tummy and ease them into a relaxed state.

Chicken Bone Broth

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Warm chicken bone broth is rich in nutrients like glycine, which has calming effects on the nervous system. Bone broth can also hydrate and comfort dogs, particularly if warmed up before bed. For a shelf-stable and dog-safe version, try Organic Chicken Bone Broth Powder (on Amazon). It’s easy to sprinkle over kibble or mix with water as a nighttime treat.

Blueberries

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Packed with antioxidants, blueberries may support cognitive health and reduce oxidative stress, both of which can impact sleep quality in aging dogs. When included in complete toppers like the Beef Topper with Carrots and Blueberries (on Amazon), blueberries offer flavor, nutrition, and brain-boosting benefits.

Mushrooms

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Certain mushrooms, like reishi and lion’s mane, are known for their calming and adaptogenic properties. These natural ingredients help regulate the nervous system and support a more balanced mood. A great option is the iHeartDogs Hemp Mushroom Chews – Mobility, Calming, Allergy, Lumps, Bumps, Lipomas & Immune Support (on Amazon), which combines calming mushrooms with hemp to help reduce stress and night pacing in dogs.

Turkey

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Turkey contains tryptophan, an amino acid that promotes serotonin production and relaxation. Small amounts of lean cooked turkey (with no seasoning) can be given before bedtime. This natural source of tryptophan may help signal to your dog’s body that it’s time to rest.

Collagen

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Collagen is not only good for joints but also plays a role in muscle recovery and cellular health. Senior dogs who pace at night may be dealing with pain or discomfort, and adding a collagen-rich topper like Beef Topper with Collagen (on Amazon) to their dinner may help soothe their body and promote relaxation as they sleep.

Ashwagandha and Lion’s Mane

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These adaptogenic herbs help regulate stress response and are known to support cognitive function in both humans and dogs. Dogs who pace due to age-related anxiety or confusion can benefit from a daily supplement like the Senior 7 Anti-Aging Support for Dogs with Antioxidants, Lion’s Mane and Ashwagandha for Longevity and Cognitive Boost (on Amazon). It’s formulated to support the aging brain and help calm nighttime anxiety.

A Natural Way to Support Your Dog’s Rest

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Helping your dog settle at night can start with the right foods and supplements. Ingredients like pumpkin, turkey, blueberries, and calming herbs all play a role in relaxing your dog’s body and mind. Whether you try homemade treats or trusted products like Pupkin Probiotics and Prebiotics with Pumpkin For Dogs (on Amazon) or iHeartDogs Hemp Mushroom Chews – Mobility, Calming, Allergy, Lumps, Bumps, Lipomas & Immune Support (on Amazon), the goal is to create a nighttime routine that promotes peace and deep sleep—for both of you. Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, iHeartDogs earns from qualifying purchases.