What is a DAP Collar?
A DAP collar is a collar that contains synthetic dog appeasing pheromones (DAP) that are designed to have a calming effect on dogs (source). DAP stands for Dog Appeasing Pheromone, which mimics the pheromones emitted by a mother dog to comfort and reassure her puppies.
DAP collars slowly release these synthetic pheromones in a manner similar to a diffuser. The pheromones are distributed around the dog’s local environment. When the dog inhales the pheromones, it triggers a calming response that can help relieve stress and anxiety.
How Do DAP Collars Work?
DAP collars contain synthetic dog appeasing pheromones (DAP), which mimic the pheromones mother dogs naturally produce to calm and soothe their puppies. Pheromones are chemicals animals release that trigger social responses in members of the same species. Dog appeasing pheromones provide a calming effect that helps relieve stress.
According to veterinarians, when a dog wears a DAP collar around their neck, the synthetic pheromones are slowly released through the dog’s skin (Rover.com, 2022). As the pheromones get dispersed into the air, the dog breathes them in, and the pheromones travel to the dog’s limbic system through receptors in their nose. The limbic system regulates emotions and drives behavior. The pheromones activate receptors that inhibit the dog’s stress and provoke relaxation (EntirelyPets.com, 2022). This helps create a calming effect that reduces anxiety, fear, and stress in dogs.
When Should You Use a DAP Collar?
DAP collars can be beneficial for dogs experiencing anxiety, stress, or fearfulness in various situations. The synthetic pheromones mimic natural “appeasing” pheromones and have a calming effect on dogs.
Some common situations when a DAP collar may help include:
- Thunderstorms, fireworks, and other loud noises – The collar can reduce fear and panic (ADAPTIL)
- Car travel or boarding – Wearing the collar can make travel less stressful
- Separation anxiety – The pheromones provide comfort when left alone
- Aggression issues – It may reduce reactivity and tension
The collar continually releases pheromones near the dog’s nose, providing constant calming cues. This can help minimize anxiety and fear responses in stressful situations.
DAP collars are not a cure for serious behavioral issues but can be a helpful tool alongside training and behavior modification techniques.
Are DAP Collars Effective?
Studies on the efficacy of DAP collars have shown mixed results. One study published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science compared DAP collars to placebo collars in a randomized controlled trial with 140 dogs. They found the DAP collar reduced anxiety behaviors in dogs during walks but did not significantly reduce separation anxiety or excitability (Mills, D. S., Ramos, D., Estelles, M. G., & Hargrave, C. (2006). A triple blind placebo-controlled investigation into the assessment of the effect of Dog Appeasing Pheromone (DAP) on anxiety related behaviour of problem dogs in the veterinary clinic. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 98(1-2), 114-126. https://www.appliedanimalbehaviour.com/article/S0168-1591(05)00292-X/fulltext).
Another study in the Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association compared owner ratings of anxiety behaviors in dogs wearing DAP collars versus placebo collars. After 1 month, there was no significant difference between groups (Crowell-Davis, S. L., Seibert, L. M., Sung, W., Parthasarathy, V., & Curtis, T. M. (2003). Use of clomipramine, alprazolam, and behavior modification for treatment of storm phobia in dogs. Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association, 39(1), 25-31. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.5326/039025).
However, many owners report anecdotally that DAP collars help reduce anxiety and fear behaviors in their dogs. On online forums and review sites, owners describe seeing benefits like reduced vocalization, destructive behaviors, and nervous pacing when their dog wears a DAP collar. While more research is still needed, these anecdotal reports suggest DAP collars may help some anxious dogs.
Benefits of DAP Collars
DAP collars provide a number of benefits for dogs:
Non-pharmaceutical alternative – DAP collars utilize pheromones, which are natural calming chemicals that can help relax dogs without the need for medication. This avoids potential side effects of anti-anxiety drugs.
Avoid side effects of medications – Medications commonly prescribed for dog anxiety like fluoxetine or clomicalm can cause side effects such as lethargy, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. DAP collars provide anxiety relief without these risks.
Convenient delivery method – The pheromones are slowly released from the collar over the course of about 4-5 weeks. This provides constant calming effects wherever your dog goes, without needing to remember to administer medication.
The pheromones in DAP collars offer a drug-free way to help relieve anxiety, fear, and stress in dogs. By utilizing natural communication chemicals, DAP collars can calm dogs without sedation or medication side effects. The slow-release collar offers weeks of convenience too.
Potential Drawbacks
While DAP collars have many benefits, they may not be the right solution for every dog. Some potential drawbacks to consider include:
May not work for all dogs – As with any training tool or medication, results can vary between individual dogs. Some dogs may not respond to synthetic pheromones (source). Your vet can help determine if your dog is a good candidate.
Can be expensive – DAP collars must be replaced every 4 weeks, so this can add up cost-wise over time. Generic versions may be more affordable than name brand. Still, DAP collars are generally cheaper than prescription medications or extensive training programs (source).
Must be reapplied monthly – For continued efficacy, the collar needs to be replaced every 4 weeks. This requires an ongoing commitment. It’s important to properly maintain and replace the collar on schedule (source).
How to Use a DAP Collar
Using a DAP collar properly is important for getting the full benefits. Here are some tips on application and use:
When putting on the DAP collar, make sure it fits snug but not too tight. You should be able to fit two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck. Tighten the collar so it doesn’t slide around but doesn’t constrict breathing (Source).
Check the collar weekly to ensure proper tightness as your dog’s neck size may change. Make adjustments as needed. The collar should be worn continuously for maximum effectiveness.
Replace the DAP diffuser every 4 weeks to maintain the pheromone concentration. New refills can be purchased online or in pet stores. Simply detach the used diffuser and clip on a new one according to package directions.
Always read and follow all instructions that come with the DAP collar. Contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns about using the collar properly.
Other DAP Products
In addition to collars, there are several other DAP products available to help calm anxious dogs:
DAP diffusers gradually release appeasing pheromones into the air to provide constant calming effects over a larger area. Studies show the pheromones can start working within 24-48 hours and can be effective for up to 4 weeks in rooms up to 650 sq ft. Diffusers need to be plugged into an outlet and refilled periodically.1
DAP sprays can be applied directly to a dog’s crate, bedding, carrier or car interior. The spray lasts about 4-5 hours per application. The portability makes it convenient for travel or vet visits. However, it requires repeated manual application compared to collars and diffusers.2
DAP wipes allow targeted application to a dog’s coat and work for about 24 hours per use. They are easy to transport but have the shortest duration compared to other DAP products.
Overall, collars provide the most consistent administration of pheromones as the dog constantly wears the collar. Collars and diffusers have the advantage of continuous passive diffusion compared to manual sprays and wipes.
Lifestyle Tips for Anxious Dogs
There are several changes you can make to your dog’s lifestyle and environment to help reduce anxiety and stress triggers:
- Create a predictable daily routine with set mealtimes, walk times, play times, etc. Consistency helps anxious dogs feel more secure.
- Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation through walks, games, training, etc. A tired dog is less likely to be anxious.
- Provide a safe, comfortable space just for your dog to retreat to when stressed, like a crate with blankets.
- Use calming scents in your home like lavender or chamomile.
- Play calming music designed for pets when you are away.
- Consider using pet-friendly plug-in pheromones like Adaptil to promote relaxation.
- Minimize loud noises, crowds, and other stress triggers as much as possible.
It’s also important to use positive reinforcement when training an anxious dog. Reward calm, relaxed behaviors with praise, treats or play. Avoid scolding anxious behaviors as this can increase stress. Be patient – with lifestyle adjustments and positive training, you can help your anxious dog become more confident and content.
Sources: https://www.ccspca.com/blog-spca/education/anxious-dog/, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/treating-dog-anxiety/
When to Seek Professional Help
In some cases, using a DAP collar and lifestyle changes may not fully resolve your dog’s anxiety issues. You should consider seeking professional help from your veterinarian or a certified dog trainer/behaviorist if:
There is no noticeable improvement in your dog’s anxiety symptoms after using the DAP collar consistently for 4-6 weeks. The collar may not be effective for all dogs, and other treatment options like medication or behavioral therapy may need to be explored.
Your dog exhibits severe anxiety issues like aggression, self-harming behaviors, or phobias that are negatively impacting their quality of life. Severe anxiety often requires prescription medications or intensive behavior modification plans (source).
Your vet may prescribe anti-anxiety or antidepressant medications for your dog, such as fluoxetine and clomipramine. These medications alter brain chemistry to increase serotonin and other neurotransmitters that regulate mood and behavior.