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My anxious dog bites. What calming options work besides Thundershirt?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Miniature Pinscher | Male | neutered

Hi! I have a pet rescue dog who is very anxious and a biter. I recently purchased a thundershirt to see if it could help with some of the things that make him most anxious, but I can't get it on without him biting me several times. Do you have any suggestions?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on May 19th, 2017

Poor King! If he is fearful about being handled and bites you when you try to put on the Thundershirt, this probably isn't a good option for him right now - trying to get it on him is likely causing a lot of stress, and is also dangerous for you due to the risk of being bitten.

Instead, you might want to try a DAP pheromone diffuser, or a natural calming supplement like Zylkene or Composure for situations that tend to make him anxious - these can be helpful for some fearful dogs. If these things don't help much, you could talk to your veterinarian about whether prescription medication might be a good option for him, or make an appointment with a veterinary behaviorist for a more complete evaluation and treatment plan to help address the problem. You can search for a board-certified veterinary behaviorist in your area here: www.dacvb.org

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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