Using Adaptil/DAP

Using Adaptil during Socialisation and adoption

Collecting the puppy or dog

  • Fit an Adaptil Collar to the puppy or dog on collection.
  • Adaptil Spray can also be used to give added reassurance during the first car journey to its new home.  Adaptil Spray should be applied to a box or crate in the back of the car 15 minutes before introducing the dog.  On long journeys this may need to be re-applied every 2-3 hours.

In the home

  • 48 hours before adopting a new puppy or dog plug-in a DAP Diffuser, preferably at floor level next to where the dog is going to sleep and spend time.
  • The diffuser should be switched on continuously for at least 4 weeks and the refill replaced as required.

Puppy socialisation

  • The Adaptil Collar should be worn throughout the socialisation period  (from 6 -16 weeks) to prevent fear and stress which may lead to anxiety-related behavioural problems later in life.
  • Fitting an Adaptil Collar at this stage has been shown to dramatically influence a puppy’s development and help it develop into a well behaved and confident adult dog.
  • The collar only releases the pheromone when it is warmed by the dog’s body heat.  Therefore, it should be checked daily to ensure it has not become loose.
  • It is also advisable to check that the collar has not become too tight as the puppy grows.

Puppy classes

  • It is strongly advised that puppies wear a Adaptil Collar throughout the socialization period (from 6 -16 weeks).
  • Fitting an Adaptil Collar at this stage has been shown to dramatically influence a puppy’s development and help them grow into a well behaved and confident adult dog.
  • In addition or as an alternative the Adaptil Diffuser may be plugged in the room where the class takes place.
  • The diffuser should be switched on at least 24 hours before the class and left on until the class is complete.

Using Adaptil in kennels and rescue centres

  • An Adaptil Collar should be fitted to the dog as soon as possible to prevent the dog becoming stressed in the kennel environment.
  • The collar only releases the pheromone when it is warmed by the dog’s body heat.  Therefore, it should be checked daily to ensure it has not become loose.
  • Alternatively, the Adaptil Spray can be used as a temporary measure lasting 2-3 hours.
  • Where possible, an Adaptil Diffuser can be used inside to provide reassurance to all dogs within 50m2 of the socket, open doors and ventilation systems permitting.
  • If the dog is already highly aroused then the effects will be more limited, so it is advisable not to wait until the animal shows signs of stress.
  • For best results, a collar should be fitted to every dog in the kennel environment.

Using Adaptil to help manage separation anxiety

  • An Adaptil Diffuser should be used alongside training to promote learning and help a dog adapt to being home alone.
  • The diffuser should be plugged in, preferably at floor level next to where the dog is going to sleep and spend time while alone.  However, if the dog is very destructive it is advised that the diffuser is out of reach.  For example, the other side of a stair gate.
  • The diffuser should be switched on continuously for at least 4 weeks and the refill replaced as required.
  • The behaviourist should always be informed that a pet owner is using DAP.  The behaviourist should be able to advise on how long the dog will need pheromone support.

Using Adaptil to reduce early signs of separation problems or to help young dogs cope with staying home alone

  • An Adaptil Diffuser should be plugged in, preferably at floor level next to where the dog is going to sleep and spend time while alone.
  • The diffuser should be switched on continuously for at least 4 weeks.  If no response is seen within a week, seek advice from a vet or canine behaviourist.

Using Adaptil to reduce firework fears

During the firework season

  • Owners should ensure that pets are safely inside and that doors, windows and dog flaps are secured.
  • It is advisable to microchip pets, as if they do escape, frightened animals can easily get lost.
  • A ‘den’ should be created for a dog to hideaway in and a DAP Diffuser should be plugged in, preferably at floor level, to further increase its feeling of security.
  • Dogs should be taken for walks early in the evening to help avoid the fireworks.
  • Owners should draw their curtains, play music and/or have the TV on to help mask the noise of fireworks
  • Fearful behaviour should be ignored.  A dog may pick up on anxiety and this may make the problem worse.  It is important that owners do not get cross or punish their pets, as they will only make them more distressed.
  • DAP Spray can be used to give additional support on the night of the event.

After the firework season

  • Desensitisation and counter-conditioning, in conjunction with pheromone therapy, may be required after the fireworks’ season.

Using Adaptil to help reduce travel fears

  • Apply Adaptil Spray to dog basket, bedding or cage approximately 15 minutes before travelling.  The spray can be re-applied on toilet and exercise breaks.
  • On long journeys an Adaptil Collar may be a more convenient formulation.  In such a situation fit 24 hours before the journey.

Using Adaptil to help reduce stress in other challenging situations (Christmas, new baby, moving house etc)

  • Plug the Adaptil Diffuser in the room where your dog will spend the most time.

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