Does your dog seem to be fearful or anxious? Do they suffer from separation anxiety when you leave them at home? If this sounds like your dog, a pheromone collar may help to mitigate their symptoms.
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Related: Best Calming Treats For Dogs With Anxiety, Noise Cancelling Earmuffs For Dogs, Pheromone Spray For Dogs
What Are Pheromones?
Pheromones are odorless chemicals released by members of the same species to signal “everything is ok”.
A nursing mother will release Dog Appeasing Pheromone (DAP) to signal to her puppies that they are safe and belong with her.
Pheromones are species specific, therefore, only dogs can sense pheromones released by dogs.
What Is A Pheromone Collar For Dogs?
A pheromone collar for dogs uses synthetic or man made chemicals to mimic the dog appeasing pheromone released by nursing mothers.
It is embedded into the collar, which consistently releases the scent of the pheromones to keep your dog feeling calm.
Why Should I Use A Pheromone Collar For Dogs?
If your dog suffers from anxiety, a pheromone collar can help calm them and feel more at ease with the situation that is causing them their anxiety. Examples include:
- Moving to a new home.
- Thunderstorms.
- Fireworks.
- Riding in the car.
- Going to veterinarian appointments.
- Difficulty getting used to a new baby or pet in the house.
- Separation anxiety.
- Travel.
How Do You Use A Pheromone Collar For Dogs?
To use a pheromone collar for dogs, place the collar around your dog’s neck. To make sure the size is correct, you will want to be able to fit two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck. This will ensure that it is not too tight.
Once the collar is on, there is nothing more to do . Let the scent of the pheromones go to work.
Are There Side Effects To Pheromones For Dogs?
There are no known side effects to using pheromones to help calm your dog. Pheromones are not ingested or absorbed by the body in any way. It is the scent that has its effect on your dog.
Do Pheromone Collars Work For Dogs?
The efficacy of pheromone collars depends on your dog and their situation.
If your dog has mild anxiety, the collar may be enough to help calm them.
If your pup experiences moderate to high anxiety, the collar alone may not be enough. They may need a combination of medication, behavior modification, and/or the collar.
It is best to speak with your veterinarian if your dog experiences high anxiety due to various situations to determine the best treatment for them.
Do Pheromone Collars Work For Separation Anxiety?
Pheromone collars can help dogs who suffer from separation anxiety. The constant release of pheromones from the collar may be enough to help calm their anxiety and reduce destructive behaviors.
Again, if the separation anxiety is severe, a pheromone collar alone may not be enough to quell their symptoms and a combination of medication with the collar may be needed. Speak with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action to treat your dog’s symptoms.
How Long Does It Take For A Pheromone Collar To Work For A Dog?
When using a pheromone collar for dogs, it usually takes about an hour for the effect to kick in.
How Long Do Dog Pheromones Last?
Typically, a pheromone collar will last 60 days. But if you see the effects waning, you can change the collar every 30 days.
Are Pheromone Collars Safe For Dogs?
Generally speaking, pheromone collars are safe for dogs. As mentioned above, there are no side effects to using pheromones to help calm your dog.
However, if your dog is a chewer and does not like to have anything around their neck, a pheromone collar may not be a good idea for them.
How Long Can A Dog Wear A Calming Collar?
As mentioned above, a pheromone collar can last up to 60 days. Your dog can wear the collar everyday, if necessary without fear of any side effects.
Do Dogs Like The Smell Of Pheromones?
Dogs interpret the pheromones as a sign of calmness and reassurance that “everything is alright”.
Which Calming Collar Is Best?
There are several types of pheromone collars for dogs available. They are designed to mimic the pheromones released by a nursing dog to her puppies.
Some pheromone collars use a combination of calming scents, such as lavender and chamomile, rather than actual pheromones.
You may have to try different types to find one that best suits your dog.
If you are using a collar that contains lavender and chamomile, there may be the possibility that you or your dog may have an allergic reaction to the scent, if you or your pup are sensitive.
Pros:
- Once the collar is on, it can be left on.
- No need to apply and wait for pheromones to disperse.
- Lasts for up to 60 days.
- No side effects.
Cons:
- Scent can be strong.
- Not good for chewers.
- May not be good for dogs with skin sensitivities.
- Takes an hour to start working.
Best Pheromone Collars For Dogs
These are the top 5 pheromone collars available. Some use pheromones, while others use lavender and chamomile scents and/or essential oils to help calm your dog. Product information is according to the manufacturer. The biggest negative to using these collars is that the scent may be a little overwhelming for some people, especially when it is first taken out of the packaging.
Adaptil Calming Pheromone Collar For Dogs
- Available in 2 sizes.
- Lasts up to 4 weeks.
- Not recommended for hyperactivity or aggression.
- Body heat activated.
- Not to be used when bathing.
- Sends “comforting messages” to your dog.
ThunderEase Calming Collar
- Available in 2 sizes.
- Activates using your dog’s body heat.
- Lasts up to 4 weeks.
- Same formula as Adaptil.
Check Price At: Amazon, Chewy, Petco, Petsmart
BHPGFD Calming Collar For Dogs
- Works in 1 hour.
- Contains 4 collars.
- Waterproof.
- Collar is 25 inches in length.
- Lasts up to 60 days.
- Contains Lavender Chamomile essential oils.
- Made of TPE material.
Check Price At: Amazon
BNULKH Calming Collar For Dogs
- Waterproof.
- Contains 4 collars.
- Works in 1 hour.
- Lasts for up to 60 days.
- Made from TPE material.
- Collar is 25 inches in length.
Check Price At: Amazon
Sentry Calming Collar For Dogs
- Lasts for up to 30 days.
- Fits up to a 23 inch neck.
- Available in a 1 pack or 3 pack of collars.
- Lavender and Chamomile scent.
- Not to be used during a bath.
Check Price At: Amazon, Chewy, Petco, Petsmart
Pheromone collars for dogs can help to ease your dog’s anxiety and fear of their situation. Whether they are having a difficult time adjusting to a new home or are experiencing separation anxiety when left home alone, a pheromone collar may help them feel less anxious and stressed.
Please check out our other posts on Health, Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel accessories for your dog, as well as Reviews of various products and travel destinations.