A full, happy life isn’t just about wagging tails and long walks. Just like us, dogs need mental stimulation, a balanced mood, and a sense of calm to thrive. And the good news? Even small changes in what and how you feed them can spark big shifts in their wellbeing.
From daily enrichment to small shifts in your dog’s nutrition, there are easy ways to boost their mood, confidence, and connection with you. Here are some simple strategies to help your dog feel calmer, more engaged, and truly at ease every day.
Common dog mental health issues — and what they look like
Dogs can have mental illness — and they aren’t always expressed the way you might expect. From subtle changes in behaviour to more extreme responses like aggression or obsessive habits, your pup’s emotional wellbeing plays a big role in how they experience the world.
Some of the more common mental health conditions in dogs include:
Anxiety – This can appear as general nervousness, separation anxiety, or even fear of specific sounds or environments (known as noise anxiety).
Depression – Dogs with depression may become withdrawn, show little interest in play or interaction, and sleep more than usual.
Obsessive-compulsive behaviours – Think constant licking, pacing, or tail-chasing. These behaviours are often linked to psychological stress or abnormal nervous system activity.
Aggression – Not just a temperament issue, aggression can signal deep fear, hyperarousal, or past trauma.
Hyperactivity – High energy can be normal for some breeds, but in excess it may point to underlying emotional imbalance.
Social and transference anxiety – These often arise in rescue dogs or those who’ve experienced change or instability, leading them to fear new people, animals or environments.
Read more: Top 5 types of dog anxiety and how to treat them naturally
Understanding what’s going on beneath the surface means tuning in to subtle cues. Mental health issues in dogs can present as:
Whining, barking, or destructive behaviours — especially when left alone
Soiling or marking indoors, even if toilet-trained
Changes in appetite — from loss of interest in food to sudden bingeing
Drastic weight loss without a medical cause
Lethargy or a sudden drop in energy
Erratic behaviour or repeated “freeze, fight or flight” responses
Withdrawal from affection or usual routines
These behaviours are often your dog’s way of coping with internal stress. Over time, chronic psychological strain can even lead to elevated stress hormone levels, making physical symptoms worse.
With the right support, including tailored nutrition, enrichment, and connection, many of these behaviours can be softened.
Read more: 9 reasons why your dog is shaking and when to see a vet
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Food that can support your dog’s mental health
What your dog eats can shape how they feel. Just like with humans, a balanced intake of nutrients can support brain function, help regulate mood, and even reduce anxiety, thanks to the powerful gut-brain connection.
By including certain ingredients in their meals — or offering them as snacks or toppers — you’re supporting both physical and emotional wellbeing. Every dog is different, so if you’re unsure about a new ingredient, check with your vet first.
Read more: The missing link between diet and your dog’s mental health
1. Sardines
Sardines are a powerhouse of brain-supporting omega-3s — and yes, your dog can benefit too.
Rich in DHA and EPA, sardines support healthy brain development and neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which help your dog stay calm and emotionally balanced.
Omega-3s also have anti-inflammatory properties to reduce inflammation in the body and brain to promote wellbeing.
If you’re buying tinned sardines at the supermarket, always choose wild-caught fish in water – no salt, spices, oil, or sauce. Or try Lyka Sardine Snaps: gently air-dried whole sardines for a tasty topper or high-value reward.
Read more: Can dogs eat sardines? Yes! Here are the top health benefits
2. Sweet potato
Sweet potatoes contain vitamin B6 – a key nutrient that helps regulate your dog’s hormones, immune response, and nervous system function. When these systems run smoothly, your dog is better equipped to manage stress.
Orange or purple, both varieties are safe and nutritious. Purple sweet potato has the bonus of antioxidants, which help protect the brain from inflammation and age-related damage.
Read more: Can dogs eat sweet potato? Yes! Here are the top health benefits
3. Blueberries
Small but mighty, blueberries are rich in antioxidants that help protect your dog’s brain cells from oxidative stress. This can support memory, slow down cognitive decline, and promote learning — especially in senior dogs.
Read more: Can dogs eat blueberries? Yes! Here are the top benefits
4. Kale
For dogs prone to stress or anxiety, kale can offer gentle support. Delivering a blend of magnesium, vitamin B and C, and antioxidants, kale acts as a stress-reducing superfood.
Kale is high in fibre, which is great for digestion in the right amounts. Start by adding a small portion of finely chopped cooked kale (unseasoned) to your dog’s meals.
Read more: Kale: a nutritious superfood for your dog
5. Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin is a great vegetable for dogs and full of powerful antioxidants, vitamins, and prebiotic fibre. But don’t throw away those pumpkin seeds – they contain high amounts of brain-boosting omega-3 to support your dog’s mental cognition and brain health.
Read more: The benefits of butternut squash for your dog
6. Beef liver
Beef liver is a highly nutritious source of protein, vitamin B, iron, and fatty acids. B vitamins help to power neural tissue and regulate energy levels, to help your dog feel happy and energised throughout the day.
Read more: Beef liver: a nutrient-packed source of protein for your dog’s food
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How daily enrichment can improve your dog’s mental health
If you’re concerned about your dog’s mental health, improving their diet is a great first step. But a holistic approach that considers your dog’s day-to-day experience could be a game-changer.
Mental stimulation
Dogs thrive when their minds are engaged and stimulated, but not all pups are working dogs with jobs to do. Boredom isn’t just frustrating for your dog; it can lead to unwanted behaviours like chewing furniture or barking incessantly.
A great way to keep your pup’s mind stimulated and sharp is by using interactive toys and puzzle feeders that encourage your dog to use their instincts and senses.
Training can also be a highly effective way to promote mental wellbeing. Obedience or agility training, even just teaching new tricks for a tasty reward, gives your dog opportunities to learn and test their memory.
Anxiety support
Like us, dogs can experience anxiety ranging from mild stress to separation anxiety. Here are some easy things that you can do to help your dog feel calm and settled.
Chewing for stress-relief
Dogs often chew to relieve stress and tension. Long-lasting chews like Lyka Busy Beefies are an effective way to occupy their mouth and mind, helping them to relax.
Supplements
In addition to a diet containing brain-boosting ingredients, natural supplements can also support their mental health. Lyka Calm Supplement contains active ingredients including probiotics to help reduce anxious behaviour and cortisol levels.
Qualified dog behaviourists
If you want additional training support for your dog’s mental health, a qualified dog behaviourist may be able to help. They’ll work closely with you to address the issues of concern and create a tailored plan of action.
Anxiety clothing
Some dogs can feel frightened in loud and unpredictable moments, like during a storm or when a car alarm goes off. An anxiety vest might be just what your pup needs to feel secure during these situations. They’re a bit like a weighted blanket: by fitting snugly around your dog’s body, it gives them a sense of reassurance.
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Lyka: the real food difference for your dog's mind and body
Mental wellbeing matters — for dogs too. With the right balance of real food, daily enrichment, and gentle support, your dog can feel calmer, more connected, and ready to thrive.
Lyka meals are formulated by Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionists to support both body and mind. Ready to help your dog feel their best? Start their flexible meal plan today.
