FAQ Your help centre for ADAPTIL products

What is your question about?

Learn about ADAPTIL Junior

How does it work?

Mother dogs communicate with their puppies through natural messages released into the air, "comforting messages“ (Pheromones). These canine odorless messages are only perceived by dogs, not by people or cats.  

These “comforting messages” provide a strong signal of security and comfort to puppies.  The “comforting messages” sent by ADAPTIL Junior helps puppies feel as comforted and secure with their new family as they did with their mother.

How fast will I see results?

Within the first week after adoption, puppies stop crying at night faster with ADAPTIL Junior.

Within the first month, puppies become more confident and self assured. They learn better and faster thanks to ADAPTIL Junior.

We recommend using ADAPTIL Junior until the end of the socialization period (6 months old).

How long should I use it?

ADAPTIL Junior is recommended from adoption day, until the end of the socialization period (6 months old).

When to use?

  • For puppies 8 weeks of age or older.
  • Right after adoption, until the end of the socialization period (6 months old).

When NOT to use?

  • If your puppy does not receive proper training, ADAPTIL Junior will not help.
  • If your puppy does not receive proper socialization, ADAPTIL Junior will not help.
  • If your puppy is soiling in the house due to lack of toilet training, or due to medical reasons, ADAPTIL Junior will not help. It is important to consult a veterinarian to rule out potential medical issues with your puppy.
  • ADAPTIL Junior will not help and should never be used in cases of aggression towards humans or other dogs. In such situations, we strongly recommend consulting your veterinarian or a behaviourist.

Use ADAPTIL Junior

How to use?

  • Place the collar snugly on your puppy’s neck to ensure proper contact.
    • Place a finger in the plastic loop situated in the inside of the collar close to the buckle.
    • Using this loop pull the thin plastic to uncoil the collar.
    • Fasten the collar.
    • Place over your puppy's head to tie loosely around the neck.
    • Tighten the collar to fit snugly to your puppy’s skin.
    • You should be able to place no more than 2 fingers between the collar and your puppy’s skin.
    • Ensure the collar is fixed inside the buckle.
    • Cut off the excess portion of the collar.
  • When ADAPTIL Junior comes in contact with the skin, the puppy’s body temperature warms the collar and promotes the diffusion of “comforting messages” into the local environment.
  • The collar should remain on the puppy at all times (except during bathing as shampoos can damage the collar).

How NOT to use?

  • Do not put another collar or a bandana between ADAPTIL Junior and your puppy’s skin.  It would block the contact and therefore the release of “comforting messages”.
  • Do not put the collar in contact with shampoo or chlorinated water (eg. swimming pool).
  • Do not fix a lead on the collar as it would not resist the tension and would fall off.

What size do I need?

ADAPTIL Junior is recommended for puppies up to 15 kg.

How long will it last?

One collar lasts 30 days.
It is recommended to replace the collar every 4 weeks, to ensure continuous support to your puppy during the socialization period, until 6 months old.

How fast will it work?

  • Immediately upon being fitted to your puppy.
  • Be sure to adjust the collar properly.
  • Check regularly to ensure a proper fit during your puppy’s growth (if the collar is too loose, it will not be warmed enough by their body heat).

Intermittent use?

Don't remove the collar, except for when bathing (shampoos can damage the collar).

Leave the collar on 24 hours a day. That’s how efficacy is proven in clinical trials with continuous use of the collar (24 hours a day) allowing the puppy to constantly perceive the “comforting messages”.

Short hair versus long hair?

  • The “comforting messages” diffusion has been tested on 70 dogs with various hair lengths: short, medium, long.

  • Hair length has no impact on diffusion.

Recycling?

The collar is not made of recyclable plastic material.

Learn about ADAPTIL Calm Home Diffuser

How does it work?

Mother dogs communicate with their puppies through natural messages released into the air, "comforting messages“ (Pheromones). These canine odorless messages are only perceived by dogs, not by people or cats.  

These “comforting messages” provide a strong signal of security and comfort to dogs of all ages. ADAPTIL Calm releases “comforting messages” to help dogs feel reassured and relaxed in all challenging situations.

How fast will I see results?

A lot of dog owners start to see results within the first 7 days with their dog.

However, every dog is unique. Depending on how long the signs have been present and how severe the signs may be, it may take longer to see effects. We recommend using ADAPTIL Calm Home Diffuser for at least 3-4 weeks.

How long should I use it?

Most of the dogs will benefit from a permanent use of ADAPTIL Calm Home Diffuser  to create a reassuring environment in your home. The minimum recommended duration is 3-4 weeks.

When to use?

  • To constantly comfort your dog at home
  • If your dog has issues when staying alone at home (barking, whining, soiling…)
  • If your dog is scared of loud noises like fireworks or thunderstorms
  • If your dog shows signs of fear at home, or discomfort when visitors come to your home

Where to use?

In the room where the dog spends most of its time.

When NOT to use?

Do not use ADAPTIL Diffuser :

  • if your dog's issues are not related to stress, ADAPTIL will not help.
  • if your dog's issues are due to a lack of proper training (hyperactivity, over-excitement), ADAPTIL will not help.
  • if your dog's issues are due to a lack of stimulation in the environment, ADAPTIL will not help.
  • if your dog's is soiling in the house due to lack of toilet training, or due to medical reasons, ADAPTIL will not help. It is important to consult a veterinarian to rule out potential medical issues in your dog.

ADAPTIL will not help and should never be used in case of aggression towards humans or other dogs. In such situations, we strongly recommend to consult your veterinarian or a behaviourist.

Use ADAPTIL Calm Home Diffuser

Where to plug?

  • In an electrical socket with a minimum of 1.20 m of clear distance above the diffuser
    (The oily vapour carrying ADAPTIL “comforting messages” rises in a column of warm air above the diffuser.)
  • In an outlet of its own

Where NOT to plug?

  • It would block the diffusion if the Diffuser is plugged:
    • behind a door
    • underneath furniture
    • in any socket without 1.20 m (4 ft) clear distance above it
  • In a multi-plug or multi-socket
  • With an adaptor
  • With an extension cord

How many do I need?

Use 1 diffuser for an area up to 70m² (750 sq ft).

For a large home, or for a multi-floor home, use several diffusers or use an ADAPTIL Calm On-The-Go Collar instead.

How long will it last?

  • 1 refill lasts up to 30 days.
    It is recommended to replace the refill every 4 weeks, even if  a small amount of liquid remains in the vial  (the vial can never be completely empty because the last few drops of liquid are not in contact with the wick enough to allow the diffusion process).
  • 1 diffuser lasts 6 months. Renew the diffuser every six months to ensure optimum effect.

How fast will it work?

In 24 hours, the diffuser will be fully functional and ADAPTIL will spread in your home.
For situations that can be anticipated, like fireworks, you should plug in the diffuser 2-3 days in advance.

Unplug at night?

Do not unplug or turn off power to the diffuser at night (e.g., if the outlet is controlled by a light switch).

Leave the diffuser on 24 hours a day. That’s how efficacy is proven in clinical trials with continuous use of the diffuser (24 hours a day) allowing the dog to constantly perceive the “comforting messages”.

Compatibility?

  • ADAPTIL Calm Refill should never be used with another plug-in device.
  • ADAPTIL Calm Home Diffuser should never be used with another refill.
  • ADAPTIL Calm Home Diffuser come with a plug that fits with the local electric systems of the country it has been bought from. It cannot be used in a country with another voltage. It should never be used with an adapter or a voltage converter as it may lead to serious safety issues. Please check before use that your diffuser has the appropriate plug to be used in your country.

Recycling?

The refills are made of recyclable plastic material (PET).

Shelf life?

Refill expiration date is listed on the packaging. We recommend to replace diffusers after 6 months.

Learn about ADAPTIL Calm On-The-Go Collar

How does it work?

Mother dogs communicate with their puppies through natural messages released into the air, "comforting messages“ (Pheromones). These canine odorless messages are only perceived by dogs, not by people or cats.  

These “comforting messages” provide a strong signal of security and comfort to dogs of all ages. ADAPTIL Calm releases “comforting messages” to help dogs feel reassured and relaxed in all challenging situations.

How fast will I see results?

A lot of dog owners start to see results within the first 7 days with their dog.
However, every dog is unique. Depending on how long the signs have been present and how severe the signs may be, it may take longer to see effects. We recommend using ADAPTIL Calm On-The-Go Collar  for at least 3-4 weeks.

To get the best from ADAPTIL, also implement the relevant tips mentioned on this website according to your specific situation.

How long should I use it?

Most of the dogs will benefit from a permanent use of ADAPTIL Calm On-The-Go Collar  to create a reassuring environment at home and even outdoors. The minimum recommended duration is 3-4 weeks.

When to use?

  • To comfort your dog constantly, at home and even outdoors

  • If your dog is scared of loud noises like fireworks or thunderstorms

  • If your dog has issues when staying in a kennel (barking, whining, pacing...)

  • If your dog shows signs of fear when walking in the streets

  • If your dog has issues with training

Where to use?

Keep the collar on your dog at all times except when bathing or shampooing.

Shampoos and chlorinated water can deactivate the collar.

When NOT to use?

Do not use ADAPTIL Collar :

  • when bathing or shampooing
  • if your dog's issues are not related to stress, ADAPTIL will not help.
  • if your dog's issues are due to a lack of proper training (hyperactivity, over-excitement), ADAPTIL will not help.
  • if your dog's issues are due to a lack of stimulation in the environment, ADAPTIL will not help.
  • if your dog's is soiling in the house due to lack of toilet training, or due to medical reasons, ADAPTIL will not help. It is important to consult a veterinarian to rule out potential medical issues in your dog.

ADAPTIL will not help and should never be used in case of aggression towards humans or other dogs. In such situations, we strongly recommend to consult your veterinarian or a behaviourist.

Intermittent use?

Don't remove the collar, except for when bathing (shampoos can damage the collar).

Leave the collar on 24 hours a day. That’s how efficacy is proven in clinical trials with continuous use of the collar (24 hours a day) allowing the dog to constantly perceive the “comforting messages”.

Use ADAPTIL Calm On-The-Go Collar

How to use?

  • Place the collar snugly on your dog’s neck to ensure proper contact.
    • Place a finger in the plastic loop situated in the inside of the collar close to the buckle.
    • Using this loop pull the thin plastic to uncoil the collar.
    • Fasten the collar.
    • Place over your dogs head to tie loosely around the neck.
    • Tighten the collar to fit snugly to your dog’s skin.
    • You should be able to place no more than 2 fingers between the collar and your dog’s skin.
    • Ensure the collar is fixed inside the buckle.
    • Cut off the excess portion of the collar.
  • When ADAPTIL Calm On-The-Go Collar comes in contact with the dog’s skin, the dog’s body temperature warms the collar and promotes the diffusion of “comforting messages” into the local environment.
  • The collar should remain on the dog at all times (except during bathing as shampoos can damage the collar).

How NOT to use?

  • Do not put another collar or a bandana between the ADAPTIL Calm On-The-Go Collar and your dog’s skin. It would block the contact and therefore the release of “comforting messages”.
  • Do not put the collar in contact with shampoo or chlorinated water (eg. swimming pool).
  • Do not fix a lead on the collar as it would not resist the tension and would fall off.

What size do I need?

ADAPTIL Calm On-The-Go Collar size S is recommended for dogs up to 15 kg.

ADAPTIL Calm On-The-Go Collar size M/L is recommended for dogs up to 50 kg.

How long will it last?

One collar lasts 30 days.
It is recommended to replace the collar every 4 weeks, to ensure continuous reassurance to your dog.

How fast will it work?

  • Immediately upon being fitted to your dog.
  • Be sure to adjust the collar properly.
  • Check regularly to ensure a proper fit (if the collar is too loose, it will not be warmed enough by the dog’s body heat).

Short hair versus long hair?

  • The “comforting messages” diffusion has been tested on 70 dogs with various hair lengths: short, medium, long.

  • Hair length has no impact on diffusion.

Recycling?

The collar is not made of recyclable plastic material.

Learn about ADAPTIL Transport Spray

How does it work?

Mother dogs communicate with their puppies through natural messages released into the air, "comforting messages“ (Pheromones). These canine odorless messages are only perceived by dogs, not by people or by cats.  

These “comforting messages” provide a strong signal of security and comfort to dogs of all ages. ADAPTIL Calm releases “comforting messages” to help dogs feel reassured and relaxed in all challenging situations.

How fast will I see results?

Almost immediately.

How long should I use it?

During long journeys, if needed, renew application every 4 to 5 hours.

When to use?

  • If you plan to travel with your dog, spray ADAPTIL Transport in the car, or in your dog’s carrier, or on your dog’s bedding

  • If you plan to visit the vet with your dog, spray ADAPTIL Transport in the car, or in your dog’s carrier, or on your dog’s bedding

  • If your dog shows signs of discomfort during transport:  panting, trembling, restlessness, salivation, vomiting...

Where to use?

Apply 8 sprays directly on your dog's bedding, blanket, carrier, or on the seat of the car where you dog will be sitting.

Where NOT to use?

  • Never spray directly on the dog.
  • Never spray in the carrier if the dog is inside the carrier.
  • Always wait 15 minutes after spraying before letting the dog in the car or carrier.

When NOT to use?

ADAPTIL Transport Spray is not indicated for motion sickness. For this reason, we recommend your dog should not have eaten for at least 6 hours prior to travel to avoid nausea and vomiting, but do not limit water before travelling.

Do not use ADAPTIL Transport Spray :

  • for motion sickness
  • if your dog's issues are not related to stress, ADAPTIL will not help.
  • if your dog's issues are due to a lack of proper training (hyperactivity, over-excitement), ADAPTIL will not help.
  • if your dog's issues are due to a lack of stimulation in the environment, ADAPTIL will not help.
  • if your dog's is soiling in the house due to lack of toilet training, or due to medical reasons, ADAPTIL will not help. It is important to consult a veterinarian to rule out potential medical issues in your dog.

ADAPTIL will not help and should never be used in case of aggression towards humans or other dogs. In such situations, we strongly recommend to consult your veterinarian or a behaviourist.

Use ADAPTIL Transport Spray

Where to use?

Spray directly in the car, inside the carrier, or on your dog’s bedding or blanket that will be used in the car.

Where NOT to use?

  • Never spray directly on the dog.
  • Never spray in the carrier if the dog is inside the carrier.
  • Always wait 15 minutes after spraying before letting the dog in the car or carrier.

How many do I need?

  • Spray 8 pumps for every application
  • Each 20 mL bottle delivers about 16 applications (8 sprays / application)
  • Each 60 mL bottle delivers about 50 applications (8 sprays / application)

How long will it last?

  • Effect will last 4 to 5 hours.
  • Each dog might react slightly differently.

Recycling?

ADAPTIL Transport spray bottles are made of recyclable plastic material.

Shelf life?

Once a bottle is started, it can be used until the expiration date marked on the bottle.

ADAPTIL safety

For dogs

All ADAPTIL products are completely safe for dogs.

ADAPTIL products have benefitted more than 8 million dogs worldwide.

No issues were observed during trials and extensive consumer surveys.

For puppies

ADAPTIL is completely safe for puppies, aged 8 weeks or more.

Puppies are able to perceive ADAPTIL “comforting messages” as they are released and respond accordingly.

For humans

ADAPTIL is completely safe for humans.

ADAPTIL “messages” are specific to dogs. So they are only perceived by other dogs, not by people.

Our diffusers comply with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), European Norms (EN) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL ) required standards. The plastic materials used are self-extinguishing (V2 grade).
When the diffuser is used continuously, we recommend to change it every 6 months for the best results.

For cats

ADAPTIL is completely safe for cats.

ADAPTIL “messages” are specific to dogs. So they are only perceived by other dogs, not by cats.

For cage birds

Some caged birds are known to have sensitive respiratory systems (in particular Psittacines: parrots, budgerigar, etc.). Therefore, if you are using ADAPTIL Calm Home Diffuser, as a precaution, we recommend plugging in the diffuser in a different room.

For aquarium fish

ADAPTIL is completely safe for fishes.

But as for any in-home diffuser, If you are using ADAPTIL Calm Home Diffuser, as a precaution, we recommend plugging in the diffuser in a room that does not have an aquarium.

If the dog spends most of their time in the room with the aquarium, we recommend using an outlet as far from the aquarium as possible. This is only a precaution to avoid oily, diffused active ingredients settling on the surface of the water. The components themselves are not classified as toxic for the environment.

Resolve Diffuser issues

How to check proper function of the Diffuser?

When plugged into an outlet, the diffuser will get warm, indicating it is working properly.

The Diffuser is warm

The diffuser contains a heating element that diffuses the product, so is designed to be warm to the touch.

The level of liquid is not going down

It is going down, but you can’t see it!

The diffusion of the liquid from the Diffuser is a very slow process. In normal conditions of use, it is difficult to see any change in the bottle over the first week. Slight variations will occur depending on air turnover.

To make sure your diffuser is working properly, check that:

  • the wick is not broken
  • the device is turned on all the time (sometimes an electrical outlet is controlled by a wall switch)
  • finally, try the device in a different electrical socket

Visible mark on your wall or furniture

The oil-based vapour (carrying ADAPTIL“comforting messages”) rises in a column of warm air above the diffuser.

If this rising air is blocked (e.g. under a shelf, table, furniture) the oil may re-condense and leave a visible mark.

DO NOT plug the diffuser under any furniture or object protruding from the wall. Minimum clear distance above the diffuser = 1.20 m or 4 ft.

Diffuser and air conditioning?

Be careful to plug the diffuser away from the air-conditioner, vents, cold air returns, or exhaust fan.

Diffuser and open windows?

Using a Diffuser near open windows and doors may result in diffusion at a faster rate. 

Refills may not last as long as they should.

Whenever possible, chose a different diffuser location targeting the area where your dog spends most of its time.

ADAPTIL comforts and reassures dogs and puppies, helping them to feel calm and relaxed

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