A woman gave her dog a calming treat, but it worked a little too well—sending internet users into hysterics as the video racked up millions of views on TikTok.
Ralphie’s owner, who goes by the social-media tag @goodboyralphh, shared the now-viral video showcasing the surprisingly powerful effects of the treat, which has garnered over 6.1 million views and more than 957,000 likes. “I think the calming treat I gave my dog worked,” the owner captioned the clip.
In the video, Ralphie is shown fast asleep, looking so still that some viewers were genuinely concerned for his well-being. With his snoozy state of sedation, comments flooded in, with some questioning if the pup was all right.
Two experts, Dr. Liza Cahn, veterinary consultant for Embrace Pet Insurance, and Dr. Greg Reinhart, Ph.D., vice president of research & development at Pet Honesty, told Newsweek about the effects of calming treats for dogs.
Cahn said that many dogs, like people, suffer from anxiety, which can either be generalized or situational. To manage these symptoms, working with a veterinarian is essential.
“Calming treats for dogs are chewable supplements that aim to help reduce stress and anxiety through the use of natural ingredients such as chamomile, colostrum, L-theanine, thiamine, melatonin, hemp, valerian root, and more,” Cahn said.
She added how important it is to choose reputable, vet-approved products, but said that, while calming treats can help, significant sedation—such as what Ralphie experienced—should not be a common result. Consulting a vet before use is crucial, Cahn added.
Similarly, Reinhart highlighted the gentle, non-sedative nature of most calming chews, which aim to help dogs through stressful situations.
“These supplements often include nutrients like L-Theanine and botanicals like chamomile to promote relaxation without making pets drowsy,” he said.
Based on Pet Honesty’s research, Reinhart added that calming treats had helped nearly nine out of 10 dogs become noticeably more relaxed in stressful situations, with significant reductions in behaviors such as excessive barking.
A stock image of a dog sleeping on a bean bag. Ralphie was seemingly knocked out by the calming treat in the viral video.
Ocskaymark/iStock / Getty Images Plus
Ralphie’s deep nap in the viral clip was the result of Native Pet calming treats, according to his owner. Viewers were quick to share their reactions.
“Girl, drop the name of the treat!!!! My little 5 lb chihuahua has not met her match to this day,” commented Gabs.
“Are calming treats intended to make them go to sleep or just to calm them down a little bit? I don’t want mine to go to sleep,” asked Aida, highlighting a common concern among pet owners.
“Check for signs of life,” posted Caitlin, while another viewer wrote, “Omg [oh my God], he is melting.”
Newsweek reached out to @goodboyralphh for comment via TikTok. We could not verify the details of the case.
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