What Is DAP for Dogs?

Pheromones are natural substances secreted by animals for the purpose of eliciting a social response in members of the same species. DAP, which stands for "dog appeasing pheromone," is the synthetic form of an important pheromone released by lactating female dogs. This odorless chemical compound has proven beneficial for canine companions in a handful of ways.

  1. Purpose

    • Dams produce pheromones three to five days after giving birth.

      Shortly after giving birth, mother dogs secrete special pheromones produced by several sebaceous glands located around the nipples. The purpose of such pheromones is to convey a sense of well-being and safety to her newborn puppies. Because of these comforting effects, such natural compounds are often referred to as ''appeasing'' pheromones.

    Reception

    • The vomeronasal organ is an auxiliary olfactory organ.

      While odorless and virtually undetectable by humans, animals are equipped with a special organ specifically crafted for the detection of pheromones. Lined up with special chemical-detection cells, the vomeronasal organ is a receptive olfactory organ responsible for interpreting pheromones. Once they are inhaled, pheromones reach a specific part of the brain that coordinates basic emotions. This organ is located right at the base of the dog's nasal cavity.

    Effect

    • Olfactory memory in dogs may possibly persist into adulthood.

      Even when reproduced synthetically, DAP has demonstrated the capability of calming dogs in the same way lactating mothers calm puppies. According to a study published in the December 2008 issue of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, veterinarians Sagi Denenberg and Gary M. Landsberg found that DAP helped reduce anxiety and fear in puppies during puppy classes, ultimately helping them socialize and adapt better to novel stimuli. Interestingly, the reassuring effects of DAP appear to persist into adulthood.

    Use

    • Dog appeasing pheromone help alleviate anxiety-related behaviors.

      According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, DAP can help puppies adapt to a new home and help them be less nervous during classes. Dogs suffering from separation anxiety, noise phobia or general stress can also benefit from exposure to DAP pheromones. However, it is important to realize that results will not be typically seen overnight and in some cases may require an accompanying behavior modification program or other form of therapy.

    Benefits

    • Changes in behavior can be signs of medical disorders.

      One of the main advantages of using DAP is that, unlike sedatives, this product has not been found to cause any dangerous side-effects. Best of all, DAP is available to consumers without the need for a veterinarian's prescription. However, it is always best to consult a certified applied animal behaviorist or a board-certified veterinary behaviorist anytime a pet exhibits behavioral problems.

    Types

    • DAP collars may help dogs fearful of loud noises.

      DAP comes in diffuser, spray and collar versions. Diffuser DAP consists of an electrical plug-in unit and a disposable repository containing the appeasing solution. Upon warming up, the heating element begins to disperse the pheromone into the air. The spray version is meant to be sprayed directly onto bedding or furniture. The collars are impregnated with pheromones that are dispersed by the heat produced by the dog's body.