Ceva Adaptil collar for dogs and puppies, size S-M, 46.5 cm is a drug-free product that helps dogs cope better with stressful situations. Inside the collar is a synthetic copy of the calming pheromone (5%) released by a nursing mother dog. The pheromone is released by body heat and works for up to 4 weeks. Adaptil isn't a sedative or tranquilliser: the dog doesn't become drowsy, but adapts more easily to new things and is less easily frightened.
What it is and who makes it
Adaptil is made by the French veterinary company Ceva, which also makes Feliway for cats. The pheromone in Adaptil mimics the "safety signal" a mother dog gives her puppies in their first weeks of life. Adult dogs recognise this signal too. Besides the collar, there's a home diffuser and a spray.
When it helps
- Fireworks, thunderstorms and other loud noises.
- A puppy's first weeks in a new home and socialisation.
- Training — for calm and focus.
- Getting used to a pen, kennel or crate.
- Travel and moving house.
- Vet visits and shows.
How to wear it
- Put the collar on and tighten it so two fingers fit between it and the neck.
- Cut off the excess.
- Keep it on constantly — day and night, indoors and out.
- Remove it only for bathing and grooming.
- Replace it every 4 weeks.
Size S-M fits puppies and dogs with a neck of up to 46.5 cm.
Pros
- Drug-free. Not a sedative; the dog stays active.
- Works everywhere. Unlike a diffuser, it works at home and on walks.
- For puppies and adults. Suits dogs of all ages.
- Compatible with medication. According to the manufacturer, it can be used with other medicines.
- Adjustable. Easy to fit a growing puppy.
Cons and what to keep in mind
- Not for hyperactivity or aggression. The manufacturer doesn't recommend it in these cases.
- Not instant. Best put on a few days before an event, such as New Year's Eve or a move.
- Regular replacement. Every 4 weeks means an ongoing cost.
- Individual results. Severe anxiety needs a behaviourist and a vet.
- Not a lead collar. Keep a regular collar or harness for walks.
How to prepare a dog for fireworks
Put the collar on early, 3–7 days ahead. Set up a "den" with a bed where your dog can hide. Close windows and curtains and put on background music or TV. Walk your dog before dark and on a lead — frightened dogs often bolt. Don't scold or force your dog to "be brave", but don't fuss either — a calm voice helps more. More on calming options in calming products for dogs and cats.
Adaptil and other products
The collar can be combined with other drug-free products, such as a milk-protein feed supplement. More in our Zylkene review. For cats, Ceva makes the equivalent Feliway diffuser. If a dog copes very badly with stress, a vet may prescribe medication.
Who it suits
Puppies in a new home, dogs afraid of loud noises, travel or the vet, and dogs going through a move, rehoming or training. What else a puppy needs in the first days — see puppy shopping list.
Verdict
The Adaptil collar is a convenient drug-free stress aid: it works at home and outdoors, suits puppies and adult dogs, and is compatible with other medicines. Put it on in advance, and with severe anxiety or aggression, work with a specialist.
Signs of stress in dogs
A stressed dog often pants with an open mouth when it isn't hot, licks its lips, yawns, flattens its ears and tail, trembles, hides or, on the contrary, can't settle. There may be chewing of belongings, accidents in a house-trained dog, howling when left alone and refusing food. If these signs appear regularly, note the situations in which they happen — it helps a vet and a trainer find a solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an Adaptil collar last?
Up to 4 weeks, then replace it with a new one.
Can my dog be bathed wearing it?
No, remove the collar for bathing and grooming.
From what age can it be worn?
The manufacturer says it suits dogs of all ages, including puppies.
Is it a calming medicine?
No, it's a pheromone copy, not a sedative.
Will Adaptil help with aggression?
The manufacturer doesn't recommend it for hyperactivity or aggression.
Can it be combined with other medicines?
According to the manufacturer, yes.
