Do Pet Pheromone Diffusers Really Work?
Pet pheromone ‘plug-ins’ have surged in popularity recently. They are said to alleviate anxiety in dogs and cats. But do synthetic pet pheromones really work? Read our Holidays4Dogs article for the low-down whether pet pheromone products really work.
Pet pheromone plug-ins are a popular solution for dog owners who want to calm their furry friend’s anxious behaviour. These plug-ins emit synthetic versions of calming pheromones that simulate the natural scent of a mother dog, helping to ease stress and anxiety in dogs of all ages.
Some pet pheromone plug-ins come in the form of diffusers that can be plugged into a power outlet, while others are available in sprays or collars.
However, it’s important to note that pet pheromone plug-ins should not be used as a substitute for professional help if your dog is experiencing severe anxiety or behavioural issues.
These products were first used in the United States in 2001. Although synthetic, the products are not drugs – some people wrongly assume they are sedatives. They produce no known side effects.
What are pheromones?
Dogs and cats have receptors between their nose and their mouth which helps them recognise certain pheromones. But, what exactly are pet pheromones? To understand how diffuser products work, it is helpful to know what natural pheromones are.
All animals secrete chemicals known as pheromones in order to communicate with each other. The word itself originates from the Greek words, ‘pherein’, meaning ‘to transport’ and ‘mone’, meaning ‘hormone’.
Hormonal chemicals are emitted via a specialised organ located in the roof of the mouth. This is known as the Jacobson organ. Messages are collected via ducts leading from the roof of the mouth to the nose.
The female dog secretes pheromones soon after giving birth and the puppies detect these as they suckle. These hormones cause the puppies to feel calm and comforted. This is one example of how natural animal pheromones work.
What are DAP Diffusers and how do they work?
DAP diffusers (Dog appeasing Pheromones) replicate natural hormones secreted by dogs. The products come in plug-in form, (rather like plug-in room deodorisers). They can also be in spray form or impregnated into collars.
Modern human lifestyles can sometimes be alien to a dog’s natural instincts. Pet pheromone products claim to help with separation anxiety, noise phobias, (such as fear of fireworks), destructiveness and soiling. They may also be useful for anxious dogs when they are staying with a carer in a dog home boarding situation.
Scientific study on pet pheromones and pheromone products.
A study published in the Canadian Veterinary Journal 2010 focused on stress in hospitalised dogs. The study found that DAP-treated dogs decreased behaviours such as excessive licking and pacing. However, researchers point out the limitations of the study in that results were from hospitalised dogs, rather than a broad cross-section of pets.
There is little data available which can confirm and categorise the clinical benefits to cats and dogs in a broader sense. Online reviews for market leaders of DAP diffusers for dogs bring similar mixed reports.
Almost as many people reporting product effectiveness, reported no difference to their pet’s behaviour. Indeed, it would seem to depend on the individual dog as to whether pet pheromones work, or not.
While pheromones may work for some dogs and cats. They don’t have an effect on others. It also depends on the level of behavioural issues. Some experts recommend a multi-pronged approach by addressing other areas such as exercise, diet, and training in conjunction with DAP diffusers.
Conclusion.
DAP diffuser effectiveness seems to depend on the individual temperament of the dog. Products also vary in terms of their synthetic manufacture. Therefore, there needs to be some regulation on the manufacture of the products.
However, plug-in pheromone diffusers, (and related products) are non-invasive and are said to have no side-effects. Many pet owners do indeed report positive results with their use. There is certainly no harm in experimenting with DAP diffusers if you have an anxious pet.
