Does Adaptil actually work?

As with many of the products targeted at alleviating undesirable behaviours, what seems to work for one dog, may not work for another. Potentially, yes, though the evidence is still rather hit and miss. When trialled in laboratory beagles exposed to the noise of thunder, the use of Adaptil was shown to decrease active signs of fear such as running, digging or jumping. But had no effect on passive signs of fear such as trembling, cowering or lip-licking. In a study from 2003, the majority of owners reported improvements in their dog’s anxiety levels during firework displays when they were exposed to an Adaptil plug-in diffuser. However, it is worth noting the owners had also been issued with behavioural advice and techniques to implement. Each dog’s individual response can vary greatly. Some owners feel Adaptil works wonders; others don’t notice any difference. Adaptil certainly has a part to play in improving many fear-related scenarios but is best seen as one piece of a jigsaw rather than the definitive solution. It’s ease of use and variety of forms makes it appealing to dog owners and it is definitely worth considering as part of a management strategy. What has been shown from the various trials, is that a reduction in the fear response is much more likely to be obtained when using products or techniques in conjunction with each other, with the most successful combination being long term desensitisation alongside Adaptil or other nutraceuticals and ‘in the moment’ behavioural assistance.

It specifically says it does not effect humans yet it actually does it makes you sleepy and was actually told this by my vet so think they need to change the packaging. I have used both pills and diffuser, seem to work, tho diffuser seems more effective. My dog, who is a major terrier barker, seems to be barking much much less, but we haven't used it very long, and use it off and on so I do wonder if I am hearing what I want to hear. We have been using this religiously for 6 months, our 13 year old Daxie was diagnosed with alzheimer's and cognitive problems she was crying at night getting lost and distressed in the kitchen, since plugging this in she sleeps calmly she occasionally barks but we are easily able to pacify her. Firework nights & bad weather, I think this product does work, you have to have it plugged in for at least 1 hour for it to take effect. Our 10 month old lab is not wrecking the place anymore and can be left at home on his own since we have started using the diffuser. Adaptil really helped to calm her down and life together is now lots of fun, our dog is much more relaxed, we can leave her on her own with no problems.