Dog-Appeasing Pheromones for Electrical Outlets

[Laurie, Wally & Charlotte]

Hi Everyone,

Wally is going to be a big brother in less than a week, and we couldn't be more excited!  My question relates primarily to easing the puppy's transition to our family. 

My brother called the other day, after having lunch with a friend of his who works as a veterinary-product salesperson.  When my brother told his friend that we are getting a puppy, his buddy recommended a product that you plug into a wall outlet, which gives off "Dog-Appeasing Pheromones" (D.A.P.).  

According to information that I found on the web, the diffuser contains pheromones that are similar to those given off by the puppy's mother.  These pheromones help stop or prevent fear and stress-related behavior in puppies by "enhancing attachment and providing reassurance."  The theory is that these same pheromones help puppies adapt to new environments. 

 

I'm interested in knowing if anyone has used this type of product, and if so, did you find it beneficial?  Was it helpful for the puppy's transition, and how did it affect your older dog?  

 

Thanks in advance for your input.

 

Laurie

 

[Jen St. Louis]

Hi Laurie,

I never used the plug-in version, but we did have the spray version for our mini schnauzer. He was terrified of thunderstorms, and he had severe pancreatitis, which was aggravated by anxiety. We'd spay a bandana with the pheromones and put the bandana around his neck. It seemed to settle him down, which was all we'd hoped for.

So, in my experience, it can work - but apparently it doesn't work on all dogs, and some dogs are more susceptible to it than others. I don't think it could hurt to try it, though. :)

Jen

[Carla, Lucca and Izzy]

I tried it for my cat who was spraying because of another cat outside. It didn't calm him. Just wasted my money. You bringing puppy into a calm household will be calming enough. Just make sure you give Wally space to get away from puppy. He's been used to his own space for 6 years. He'll love puppy too but will also need to get away from puppy playfulness and pouncing and biting:)

Good luck....you will Love, love, love having 2 dogs. We were just discussing this at a mini romp we just had yesterday with 7 doodles and 3 owners!!

[Joyce Orland]

I have used the D.A.P. and it worked very well on my very timid Maltese. I wished it had some effect on me, I could have used the calming effect. Very good product. I forgot about it could use it for my doodle.

Good luck on your new addition!