Veterinarian-written / veterinarian-approved articles for your dog.

How to Cope with Canine Anxiety and Fear by Using Adaptil(TM) (Formerly called D.A.P)

Dog Separation Anxiety

Dogs and Stress

Just like humans, dogs experience stress, anxiety, and fear from a variety of events.

  • Moving to a new home.
  • New people or pets being introduced to the home.
  • Loud noises such as thunderstorms, fireworks, gunshots, engine backfires, or music.
  • Being left home alone.

There is no end to the list of possible triggers to stress and the behaviors exhibited as a result.*

Undesirable Behavior Consequences of Stress in Dogs

When suffering from stress, dogs may be restless, bark, shiver, and whine. They may cower in a closet or hide behind furniture. Housebreaking may be ignored and they may soil the home.

Destructive behaviors may be observed such as chewing furniture, shoes, pillows, or scratching at walls or doors.

Not only are these behaviors undesirable, it is also heartbreaking to see one's dog suffering from such extreme anxiety.

Pheromones: Nature's Invisible Communication System

A pheromone is a signal-carrying hormone that is released by an individual of a species (such as dogs, cats, humans, bears, certain insects, etc.) that prompts a specific response by another member of the same species.

Pheromones can signal many things, some of which include:

  • Alarm
  • Readiness for reproduction
  • A trail to follow
  • Territorial markings
  • Aggression

Some pheromones can have calming effects. This is the case with Adaptil™, the dog appeasing pheromone.

Adaptil™: Dog Appeasing Pheromone

After giving birth to her puppies, a mother dog will secrete an appeasing pheromone that calms and comforts her offspring. This gives the pups an all-around sense of well-being. The product Adaptil™ mimics this appeasing pheromone.

Adult dogs and puppies respond to Adaptil™ as they would a mother dog's appeasing pheromone and it has proven to be a valuable aid in stress reduction. In some cases, it can eliminate the stress behaviors altogether.

Adaptil™ Information

  • Previously called D.A.P
  • Available in a diffuser, spray, or collar
  • Undetectable by humans when dry
  • May be used for temporary circumstances or long-term
  • Is not a drug but a natural and safe relaxer for your pet

*In all instances where your dog is exhibiting abnormal symptoms or behaviors, be sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure there is no underlying physical disease.


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Signs of Anxiety in Dogs

6 Bad Behaviors in Dogs That We Help Create

How to Prevent Separation Anxiety in Your New Dog

Separation Anxiety in Dogs

Destructive Chewing In Dogs

How to Stop Your Dog from Jumping on People

DOGTV: A Great Way to Help Dogs That Are Home Alone All Day


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