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The vagus nerve: The key to inner calm


Dog

The vagus nerve is your dog's most important rest-and-relax nerve and controls relaxation, digestion and heartbeat. When it is out of balance, restlessness, tension or digestive problems appear. A balanced diet, rest and supportive nutrients such as vitamin B and calming herbs can meaningfully accompany the normal nerve function.

What is the vagus nerve?

Your dog's well-being is significantly influenced by a single nerve. The vagus nerve is the main nerve of the parasympathetic nervous system – also known as the "resting nerve". It runs from the brain deep into the abdomen, controlling vital processes such as heart rate, digestion, and emotional composure. Furthermore, it acts as an essential information highway between your four-legged friend's gut and brain. Thus, it plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy balance between body and mind, even in challenging situations.

Support from the inside and out

A healthy nervous system needs both: attention and the right nutrients. B-vitamins form the nutritive basis for normal nerve function. They support the vagus nerve in correctly transmitting signals for relaxation and regeneration. Through targeted, gentle massages at the base of the ear or neck, you can additionally reinforce this effect externally. The combination of mindful touch and a nutrient supply tailored to needs creates the ideal basis for a thoroughly relaxed everyday life for your dog.

Symptoms & management


Vagus Nerve & Stress Check

The vagus nerve is the "resting nerve" (parasympathetic). It controls relaxation, digestion, and heart rate. Select symptoms for an assessment.

Our expert tip for everyday life

Combine the administration of B-vitamins with gentle massages at the base of your dog's ear or neck. This physical stimulation applies targeted stimuli to the sensory endpoints of the vagus nerve and sends immediate relaxation signals to the parasympathetic system. By firmly integrating these moments of closeness into your daily routine, you create a valuable "safe haven" for your dog.

This combination ensures that the calming impulses of the massage meet a nervous system optimally prepared by B-vitamins. This ritual is a gentle but highly effective aid, especially for dogs that get overstimulated quickly in everyday life or find it hard to settle down after a walk. In this way, you use the natural connection between body and mind to sustainably strengthen your favorite's resilience.

Together they promote:

  • Deep relaxation: Faster calm-down after stressful situations.
  • Harmonious digestion: Support for the gut-brain axis.
  • Emotional balance: More composure in everyday life and during anxiety.

You and your dog: Life with a dog sometimes poses special demands – patience, attention, and loving companionship are valuable in every phase. Stay attentive to changes to promote your dog's well-being in the best possible way.


Heart and Paw


Veterinary expertise at the heart of our team

Dr. med. vet. Sibylle Ott plays a central role in our team at DOG FIT by PreThis®. As an experienced veterinarian with naturopathic expertise, she makes a decisive contribution to the development of our products. Her experience and deep understanding of the needs of dogs flow into many of the formulas we create. She is a valuable asset to our team and to the well-being of many dogs.

Frau Dr. med. vet. Ott
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional advice from a veterinary practitioner or veterinarian. The information is not exhaustive and does not constitute a suitable basis for health-related decisions or self-diagnosis. If you have any questions or concerns, or before administering supplemental feed, consult a veterinary practitioner or veterinarian. Supplemental feed is not intended to cure any disease.