Dog anxiety is one of the many major issues that dog owners face while bringing up their dogs. Though it might not seem life threatening apparently, it does cause negative effects on the dog’s physical and mental well-being in the long run.
What are Pheromones or DAH?
Pheromone is a biochemical released by lactating female dogs to provide a sense of reassurance to children. Its properties persist even in adulthood. The scientific name of this pheromone is Dog Appeasing Hormones (DAH). This is a natural substance produced inherently in lactating dogs to help them feel calm and secure. The hormone is released in mother dogs from their mammary glands shortly after they give birth to puppies. DAH plays a significant role in creating a reassuring sense of security and happiness in them. Interestingly, this pheromone is not only effective for puppies but also for adult dogs to bring down their anxiety and stress.
Here is the biological mechanism of the Dog appeasing pheromone functioning. The pheromone targets the olfactory receptors present in the dog’s brain. This particular brain zone is responsible for detecting and processing smells and pheromones. Whenever any dog smells the D.A.P., the particular olfactory pathway is triggered and helps them to reduce any kind of behaviour stemming from stress. D.A.P. is super useful in controlling behaviour in dogs such as excessive barking, destructive behaviour, chewing, aggression, and restlessness.
You might wonder why is it beneficial to use D.A.P. over other medications. Well, the reason is - D.A.P. never sedates a dog. It works by utilizing a naturally prevalent biological system in dogs. So, the dog does not doze off, instead, it remains alert, yet the nerves are cool.
What Causes Anxiety in Dogs?
Here are the major triggers of anxiety in dogs:
Presence of Strangers
Dogs that are not quite used to the presence of strangers or children become quite anxious in their vicinity. Canines are extremely fearful and anxious with strangers and react quite adversely to them. Dogs become shy and aggressive in their presence and at times might also hide away.
Lack of Exercise
Exercise is crucial in maintaining the good health of a person. Physically and mentally dogs get tired after an exercise session or a run. Exercise increases the natural serotonin level in dogs, soothing their mind and making them less reactive towards fearful things.
Adjusting to a New Environment
If there is any kind of change in the dog’s environment, they become adversely reactive to the new place. Changing the home and environment for the dogs can get triggered.
Noise Phobia
One of the most derogatory cues for any dog is loud noise or thunderbolt. Most dogs are phobic towards loud noise as it triggers anxiety and trauma in them.
Hospitalization
Visiting the vet or being at hospitals can be extremely stressful for the dogs. A visit to the hospital for dogs is usually associated with past experiences of pain and trauma. So, whenever they are in a hospital environment, it triggers trauma in them.
Travelling
Travelling exposes the dogs to various unwanted cues and unfavourable environments. The disruption in their regular schedule can cause anxiety in the dogs. Being confined to a small space and with no food or water.
Separation Anxiety
Out of all the types of anxiety and trauma responses in dogs, the anxiety of separation from the owner is the most terrible one. Whining, howling, scratching and salivation are some of the visible symptoms in dogs. They might also start digging, sudden urination, or defecation.
How Does Dog Appeasing Pheromone Work?
You might wonder what a D.A.P., or Dog Appeasing Pheromone, is. Well, it helps dogs overcome their sense of fear or anxiety. The biochemical composition of DAP quite mimics that of pheromones in lactating female dogs. The function of pheromones is to provide relaxation, reassurance and well-being in dogs. You would be surprised to know that these pheromones are species-specific, and for humans, they are odourless.
The dog-appeasing hormone is also called the canine-appeasing hormone. It is an artificially formulated pheromone, the exact structural and functional analogue of the natural dog that appeases pheromone.
Products for D.A.P Administration in Dogs
D.A.P can be administered by either a D.A.P diffuser, a D.A.P spray or a D.A.P collar. They are used individually or in a combined way to bring about the optimal results of pacifying the dog. These products are all designed to release some replica of the natural dog-appeasing hormone. Most products have their effects lasting around 4 weeks. So, it is quite an expensive option for the pet owners.
Diffusers are plug-in devices, and they help to release the D.A.P. in the air. These are perfect for use at home. D.A.P. collars are a better option for the more aggressive dogs. Since the collar is worn around the neck, it gives continuous exposure to the dogs. The sprays are ideal for use on usable items of the dog such as crates, kennel interiors and other usable stuff.
It is available in the form of a spray as well and is very effective in calming down adult dogs or puppies. It helps ease their anxiety and helps them adjust to any change in the environment. DAP imitates the natural pheromone that lactating mother dogs release when they nurse their puppies. As soon as the dogs get a fragrance of this DAP, it soothes their nervous system and establishes peace in their behaviour.
D.A.P. is usually sprayed or infused into the room or enclosed space where the dog is staying. The spray takes almost 15 minutes to manifest its complete action. Usually, one diffuser spray suffices for one room, but at times, more might be required if the room is large. The effect of the DAP lasts for almost 2 hours—however, the effects are variable for various brands. You can even spray the DAP directly onto the dog's bedding, inside the kennel, or any other indoor space.
D.A.P collar is also useful to control the sense of threat or fear in the puppies. The collar is fastened around the neck of the dog. The D.A.P-infused collar provides a relief sensation to the dogs almost for 4 weeks. It is easy to use and highly effective.
Benefits of Using D.A.P. on Dogs
D.A.P. is truly one of the major game-changers when it comes to dealing with dog anxiety. Here are the major benefits of using it:
Natural Calming Effect
Since D.A.P. is a natural analogue of DAH, it does not alter the personality of the dogs. It is quite similar to treating them naturally with a DAH. The energy levels and behaviour of the dogs remain the same, only the anxiety level is brought down.
Non-Invasive
D.A.P. products are not at all invasive. They are toxin-free and easy to use is makes it safe for usage by all dogs at any condition. The reports of adverse side effects of the product are almost nil. However, it is always recommended to connect to your vet before you administer any D.A.P. product to your dog.
It is crucial to understand that D.A.P. is not any kind of drug. Instead, it is a natural solution to calm down the anxiety and restlessness in dogs. There are no chances of your dogs turning into zombies on the application of this product. There are solid scientific studies to back the utility and effectiveness of D.A.P products in dogs.
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