'Aromatherapy' improves doggy behaviour

A new kind of “aromatherapy” for unruly dogs can make them better behaved, according to new research.

Veterinary experts at the University of Edinburgh found that wafting a special scent into the noses of dogs quietened them down and improved their mood.

They tested the “dog appeasing pheromone” (DAP) at an animal shelter in Scotland.

Pheromones are invisible “scent messages” that effect behaviour in many animals.

The researchers plugged DAP diffusers into electric sockets at the top of kennel doors at the SSPCA centre.

They had the effect of reducing the frequency and noise levels of barking among the animals.

Tests also showed that the dogs displayed a significant increase in interest towards human visitors.

A total of 37 dogs were exposed to DAP for seven days. Those that were not exposed did not show the same changes in behaviour.

Researcher Elaine Todd said: “DAP has been of interest to researchers as a way to manage some common behavioural problems in dogs, associated with fear and stress, such as excessive barking and destructiveness when left alone in the house. The pheromones have been previously shown to be of use in situations of acute stress for dogs, in particular on fireworks night.”

She said dogs with behaviour problems were often given to shelters by owners who could no longer cope.

But animals were likely to react badly to the stress of being placed in a shelter – even well run ones like those of the SSPCA.

“This study suggests that DAP is a useful palliative tool for reducing the severity and occurrence of some behaviour associated with canine stress and fear,” said Ms Todd.

“Further research is needed to investigate the full potential value of DAP as part of a long term strategy for managing problem behaviour.”