Pheromone therapy is a new and natural way to manage behavioural issues in animals and to help control stress related problems in cats and dogs.

Pheromones are messages an animal leaves for itself or others to communicate.  Humans can’t see or smell pheromones – only other animals of the same species can detect them. Pheromones can offer a feeling of safety and comfort by providing a constant source of reassurance. Commercial products that emit pheromones are a natural and safe option that can aid in the management of fear, anxiety and stress.

An example of a pheromone product used in dogs is Adaptil®.  Adaptil® uses a synthetic analogue of the dog appeasing pheromone that is produced by the inter-mammary glands of the lactating mother to create a natural comforting feeling that reassures her puppies.

Pheromones are not only beneficial for puppies but can also help adult dogs with new and stressful situations such as traveling in the car, separation anxiety, being exposed to loud and frightening noises and veterinary visits. In these types of situations, pheromones are proven to reduce or remove unwanted behaviour.

Pet owners can purchase the Adaptil® pheromone in three different formats. A plug-in diffuser can be used to maintain a constant level of hormones in the pet’s environment. A spray is available and beneficial when spraying a local area such as a blanket, crate or car seat.  You can also have your dog wear a pheromone collar allowing the pheromone therapy to be effective at all times. The dog’s body warms the collar and encourages the diffusion of pheromones into the local environment. Each product has its own benefits to help your dog’s specific needs and all three methods can be used at the same time as it is impossible to overdose on pheromones.

Pheromone therapy can be used for all ages.  Studies have shown that puppies wearing pheromone collars settled better throughout the night and those enrolled in socialization classes were less fearful and more social than dogs wearing normal collars.

The use of pheromone therapy is a great way to improve self-esteem, address stress and anxiety in dogs; however, depending on the severity of the condition, it may not entirely solve the unwanted behavior on its own. While recommended for its calming effect, it may need to be used in conjunction with other behaviour modification treatments. Talk to your veterinarian about pheromone therapy and find out if it would be appropriate for your pet.