The Bottom Line
I want to note that as with any behavior modification, it isn't overnight and it isn't always a 100% change. Sophie will still startle with a loud noise, especially if the windows are open or we are outside. Remembering to not to make a big deal out of the noise helps reassure her too.
Related: DAP Spray Review
Pros
- It was a marked overall improvement for reducing my dog's noise phobias
- It also helped with separation anxiety (used DAP spray for added benefit)
- My dog is better able to calm herself, instead of ramping up, after a loud noise
- Easy to use, non-toxic, no side effects
Cons
- The collar lasts 4 weeks, so that should be figured into collar cost
- The collar buckle was a little difficult to adjust
Description
- Pheromones released during lactation give puppies a sense of well-being and reassurance, known as appeasing pheromones.
- DAP is a synthetic version of this pheromone, called Dog Appeasing Pheromone.
- The pheromones are embedded in the plastic collar. The dog's body heat helps emit the odorless pheromone from the collar.
- Collar size is adjustable with a small plastic buckle.
- After fitting the collar comfortably around your dog's neck, trim off the excess.
- The collar will not work when it is wet. In windy conditions, it is less effective.
Guide Review - DAP (Dog Appeasing Pheromone) Calming Collar for Dogs
I adopted Sophie from a shelter in 2002. She was approximately 6 months old at the time. She loves people and is generally a calm dog. She is well-behaved. Except when there are loud noises. Then she is trembling, panting, hiding in small spaces. We also deal with mild separation anxiety issues.
I put the collar on 3 days before the 4th of July. I didn't do anything else different this year. A few days before the 4th, fireworks started. Windows closed, TV on. Sophie was asleep on the floor. As the fireworks increased in frequency and noise, I braced myself. She sighed a deep breath. She occasionally lifted an eyelid for really loud bangs. This was not my dog. So calm. Was she sick? I actually removed the collar to assess her. She seemed fine. Then I took her outside for a quick walk, she was her old self - freaked out, didn't want to do her business, wanted back inside, now.
A week later, we had a 2-hour thunderstorm. Sophie alerted me in the early dawn, a little nervous. I closed the windows and ignored her anxious behavior. Within minutes, she was calm and asleep again. Another first.
The separation anxiety piece wasn't as dramatic, but a marked improvement with time. For this, I used her collar and the DAP spray in her crate, with a Kong toy. After a few trials, she is now calm in her crate, no whining.
Sophie is a mild case. DAP is effective for her. DAP may also be used in conjunction with other therapies.
Related: The use of DAP collar to reduce stress during training of police dogs
