Chamomile for Dogs: A Natural Calmer with Big Benefits
Chamomile is a flowering plant known for its calming, anti-inflammatory and digestive-supportive properties. The most common types are German Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) and Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), both used for centuries in natural medicine.
Why Chamomile Deserves a Place in Your Dog’s Bowl
If you’ve ever had a cup of chamomile tea to help you relax, you already know how soothing this flower can be. But chamomile isn’t just for humans. Dogs can benefit too — and that’s why we’ve added it to our FEDIAF-compliant recipes at Poppy’s Picnic. From easing anxiety to calming digestion, chamomile offers a safe, gentle way to support your dog’s wellbeing every day.
How Chamomile Helps Dogs
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Calms anxiety and stress: Chamomile works on the same receptors in the brain as some anti-anxiety medications, helping soothe restlessness and nervous behaviour.
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Soothes digestion: It can ease bloating, gas and upset stomachs in dogs, especially when triggered by stress.
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Supports skin health: Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial actions make it helpful for itchy skin, minor wounds, or ear irritation.
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Promotes restful sleep: Dogs that struggle to settle can benefit from chamomile’s natural sedative effect.
Scientific Insight and Research
According to a 2020 review published in Frontiers in Pharmacology, chamomile contains apigenin, a compound shown to bind to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain, producing a calming effect. Dr. Richard Pitcairn, author of The Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats, recommends chamomile as one of the best herbal remedies for stress-related digestive upsets.
Safe Ways to Add Chamomile to Your Dog’s Diet
Chamomile can be given to dogs in the form of tea (cooled), tincture, or dried flowers mixed into food. Always use dog-safe doses and monitor for any reactions. It’s especially helpful for anxious dogs or those prone to digestive flare-ups during times of change.
Why We Include Chamomile in Poppy’s Picnic Meals
You’ll find chamomile in our RAW POWER, MIGHTY MINCE and POWER BALLS ranges. It’s one of the many herbs in our enhanced botanical blend — and part of what makes our recipes naturally balanced to FEDIAF standards.
Chamomile is just one of the many natural ingredients we use to support your dog’s physical and emotional wellbeing. Because at Poppy’s Picnic, we believe every meal should do more than fill a bowl — it should help your dog feel their best.
