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There are many products on today’s market that claim to alleviate stress and anxiety in dogs, from prescription medications to compression garments. But did you know that there are smells that claim to have a similar effect? Enter calming diffusers and sprays for dogs.
Dog appeasing pheromones (DAPs) rely on triggering calming responses in canines by mimicking certain odors, such as their mother’s scent. While a relatively new technology, there are many studies that claim certain pheromones can positively reshape dogs’ behavior and response to certain triggers. But are calming diffusers and sprays right for your dog?
Calming Diffusers and Sprays Play on Dogs’ Biological Responses
Dr. Jerry Klein, the American Kennel Club’s Chief Veterinarian, explains that using pheromones to influence dogs’ behavior is a fairly new phenomenon.
He shares, “Pheromones are a type of chemical communication between members of a species. Sometimes called calming or appeasing pheromones, they may sometimes help relieve stressed pets. Pet pheromone products are said to mimic various stages in a cat or dog’s memory, such as those that were experienced when nursing, and thus inducing calmness.”

Many DAPs are specially formulated with a secretion similar to the fatty acids that female dogs emit while nursing. Others rely on a mixture of natural oils and compounds that aim to soothe dogs.
When using DAPs to address your dog’s stress or signs of anxiety, be sure to read the ingredients before use. Some contain chemicals (such as essential oils) that can be lethal or irritating if ingested by dogs. Essential oils that can be dangerous for dogs include peppermint, pine, and citrus. Understanding a product’s ingredients can ensure you make decisions with your pet’s health in mind.
DAPs Come in Many Forms With Different Benefits
DAPs come in many forms, offering dog owners flexibility when choosing the right product for their pets. Calming pheromones can come as:
- Plug-ins. Like air fresheners, these diffusers plug into electrical outlets, emitting soothing odors on a continuous basis until the cartridges need refilling or replacing.
- Collars. If your dog experiences stress or anxiety outside the home, some calming collars claim to provide a comforting scent while your dog’s on the move. Some bandanas are also infused with certain odors, such as from natural herbs, to promote relaxation.
- Room sprays. These sprays allow you to mist a room with a comforting aroma before your dog enters.
Portable calming diffusers operate on refillable cartridges to calm dogs while traveling. Some even attach to your car’s air conditioning vents, blowing the comforting scent toward your dog throughout the ride’s duration.
Finding the right calming product will depend on the source of your dog’s anxiety and your goals for relieving their stress. For example, if you’re taking a long car ride, you may purchase a portable diffuser to create a calm environment on the road. If your dog becomes anxious on outings, DAP-infused garments could offer relief.

Calming Sprays and Diffusers Can Be Effective for Relieving Stress
So, do DAPs really comfort dogs dealing with stress or anxiety? The answer depends on who you ask.
In 2021, Veterinary Evidence said: “The evidence for using DAP to manage stress behaviors associated with anxiety in dogs over 6 months of age remains weak.” While researchers were open to conducting further studies on the use and efficacy of DAPs, they believed they didn’t have sufficient evidence to declare a “true clinical benefit.” They did note, however, that these products could offer benefits when used in conjunction with other anxiety-addressing measures.
A year later, Animals released a study that compared the effectiveness of two products that relied on DAPs to soothe stressed dogs. Data showed that owners noticed a change in their dogs’ symptoms when using these products, but only for about a month. The introduction of two other products (collars that released pheromones) extended this period slightly.
So, what does Dr. Klein say? He notes that in his experience as a veterinarian, he’s mostly seen the use of calming diffusers and sprays to shape cats’ behavior. He adds, “Most of the research that’s been published or presented at veterinary conferences regarding calming diffusers or sprays has been done on the product ‘Feliway‘ (cat pheromones) and D.A.P. (Dog Appeasing Pheromone). These studies, most of which were funded by the products’ maker, were found to help soothe stressed pets in some circumstances.”

How Do Dog Owners Use Calming Diffusers and Sprays?
Correctly using a DAP diffuser or spray depends on the specific product’s instructions. For example, some diffusers plug into wall outlets, occasionally releasing scents intended to comfort your dog during stressful events, such as vet visits or fireworks displays. These items generally last about 30 days, then need refilling.
There are also sprays that come with their own sets of instructions. Usually, you don’t spray the solution on your dog to calm them down. Rather, you spray the solution in the room before a dog enters, usually letting it sit for about five minutes. Sprays are ideal in enclosed spaces (such as inside crates), but others reach up to 700 square feet, making them usable even in large bedrooms.
Read the directions before applying any calming product; this will ensure you get the most from its use.
Using Diffusers and Sprays Alongside Other Anxiety-Relieving Measures
While calming diffusers and sprays have been shown to comfort some dogs, these products don’t address the underlying causes of anxiety. Owners must take a comprehensive, targeted approach when attempting to soothe their dogs in stressful situations.
Dr. Klein recommends creating a safe, reassuring environment where your dog can retreat when they feel anxious or uncertain.

“When it storms, place your dog in the most sound-resistant part of the house (an interior room without windows, such as a bathroom or closet),” he says. “Sit with them, if necessary, or give them a favored toy or distraction puzzle (enrichment toy or food maze). Turn on the TV or radio to deflect outside noise. Install a calming pheromone diffuser in the house in or near this area.”
Remaining calm yourself is also a critical part of supporting your dog when they feel scared or upset.
“Your dog will respond to your emotional state,” Dr. Klein continues. “Do not tolerate hysteria. If you are frightened or frustrated, keep it to yourself. Be upbeat as you speak to your dog and don’t make a big deal out of the situation. Your dog will look to you for reassurance, but do not overindulge them with hugs and kisses, which will only reinforce their behavior.”
It’s tough watching your pet in distress. But by considering the cause of their anxiety and taking a multifaceted approach, you can provide the tools they need to cope. Calming sprays and diffusers could be a great place to start!
This article is intended solely as general guidance, and does not constitute health or other professional advice. Individual situations and applicable laws vary by jurisdiction, and you are encouraged to obtain appropriate advice from qualified professionals in the applicable jurisdictions. We make no representations or warranties concerning any course of action taken by any person following or otherwise using the information offered or provided in this article, including any such information associated with and provided in connection with third-party products, and we will not be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, exemplary or other damages that may result, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness or death.