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Paws-itive Vibes: Can Music Really Soothe Our Canine Companions?
Salzburg, Austria, May 18, 2012 – A fluffy Jack Russell Terrier, nestled beside a plush toy, snoozes peacefully at the World Dog Show. This scene, captured over a decade ago, highlights a universal truth: sometimes, even our four-legged friends just need a little chill time. And increasingly, experts are exploring whether music can provide just that.
Just as humans use music to set a mood, evoke memories, or create a desired atmosphere, some dog owners, trainers, and animal shelter workers are turning to tunes as a tool for their furry charges. From training aids to distraction techniques and creating relaxing environments, music is making its way into the lives of our canine companions.
However, researchers caution that the effects are “context-dependent,” meaning success can vary based on a dog’s temperament, the specific setting, the type of music, and even the volume at which it’s played. While social media is rife with heartwarming videos of dogs howling along, unwinding to specialized playlists, or staying calm in kennels, the scientific jury is still out on the full extent of music’s impact.
While some trainers swear by music’s benefits, many animal behaviorists are calling for more research to truly understand how and when music influences canine behavior. But don’t fret, dog lovers! Experts do have some “paw-sitive” suggestions for incorporating music into your pet’s life.
Music as a Support Strategy, Not a Cure-All
Stress and anxiety are common in dogs, leading to a variety of behavioral responses like separation anxiety, noise phobias, aggression, or even submissive peeing. While music might seem like a natural solution, it’s not a magic bullet.
“Music may promote more relaxation for dogs, but it would not be the first thing I turn to if I want to reduce stress in dogs,” explains Seana Dowling-Guyer, a lecturer at Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. Dowling-Guyer, who previously worked with shelter animals, observed how excited or barking dogs could deter potential adopters. This led her to research the calming effects of music in shelter environments.
She stresses that music is a supportive tool, not a cure for anxious behaviors, nor a replacement for professional training or veterinary care. “I was interested in the practical application, not just for owners, but for veterinary offices, groomers or other situations where dogs were sometimes stressed or mildly uncomfortable,” she noted.
Not All Pups Prefer the Same Jams
At High Country Humane in Flagstaff, Arizona, classical and instrumental music fills the kennel floors. “It’s really stressful here, and the classical music seems to help calm the dogs down,” says shelter manager Megan Boyer.
“Everybody is a little bit less amped up. It’s a stress reliever for the dogs.”
Dog-calming music often incorporates elements found in human relaxation music, but with adjustments for canine hearing and sound processing. Aniruddh Patel, a Tufts University psychology professor specializing in music cognition, describes it as “simplified classical music.
It’s slow, repetitive, has a predictable structure and gentle notes. In an unpredictable environment, any kind of predictability using sounds could be soothing to an animal.”
However, experts like Lori Kogan, a Colorado State University professor studying human-animal interactions, point out that not all dogs respond the same way to classical music. Dogs, she suggests, “tend to habituate to what they are used to” rather than having innate musical preferences. Think of it like cows and country music – it’s more about association than an inborn love for a genre.
Tuning In: How to Find Your Dog’s Perfect Playlist
Many pet owners leave the TV or music on when they leave home, hoping to stimulate or distract their dogs. Dowling-Guyer recommends regularly changing up the playlist or programming to prevent boredom or the dog associating a specific song with their owner’s departure.
Tawny Keiser, a 46-year-old family practice manager in San Diego, has found success with a dog television channel on YouTube for Margarita, her 10-year-old pug with separation anxiety. “She recognizes the television and will sit and watch it. She’s engaged, and often gets really excited and jumps off the couch to sniff the screen,” Keiser shares, adding that Margarita also enjoys dog cartoons with background music.
Observing your dog’s reactions is key. Watch for signs of discomfort, like lip-licking or panting, to determine if they dislike certain sounds. If your dog doesn’t seem to engage with the music, don’t be discouraged – there’s no harm in trying.
However, Dowling-Guyer issues a word of caution: be wary of trainers who tout music as a sole solution for behavioral issues, calling it a “red flag.” For serious concerns, the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists recommends seeking out licensed trainers with advanced degrees or certifications from recognized organizations.
Ultimately, while the science is still evolving, a well-chosen tune might just add a little extra harmony to your dog’s day.