Calm Your Dog with Classical Music
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| When dogs are exposed to classical music, they overwhelmingly spend more time in a relaxed state. They rest more, bark less and are calmer when people come to visit. |
I was at a concert last night and was really enjoying listening to the music.
I was thinking about how it changes your mood, depending on what you’re listening to. It makes you happier, pumps you up, or makes you calmer . . . whatever mood we’re in, we many times choose music that amplifies that mood. Music has such an impact on the human body and psyche.
Did you know that also is true for dogs? Dogs have tastes in musical styles just like humans do.
Studies have been done that show how dogs react to certain types of music. When the researchers played music by Metallica and other heavy metal bands, the dogs became agitated and began barking.
We see this exact behavior in the dogs at camp. When we first opened the camp, we played upbeat music, usually rock ‘n’ roll or country in the play yards, for the enjoyment of the camp counselors.
As we grew and started having more and more dogs each day, we could really see how the music was making them more excited. We decided to stop playing music during the day to keep the dogs much calmer, creating fewer distractions and just allowing them to be a dog.
When dogs are exposed to classical music, they overwhelmingly spend more time in a relaxed state. They rest more, bark less and are calmer when people come to visit.
At night, Camp Bow Wow McHenry plays classical music all night to help soothe the dogs. It’s a great way to help them calm down and eventually fall asleep, although I’m not sure how much help they really need to fall asleep, as they’re so exhausted from playing all day! The music also is a great way to drown out any outside noises that might startle them overnight. It just makes a very calm and relaxing environment for them.
What about other times when you need to calm your dog? Many dogs have separation anxiety or fear of loud noises from storms and fireworks. Playing classical music during those times might help with those issues. If it can put them in a calmer state, they can be less anxious while you are gone or during other stressful times.
If your dog is having issues with separation anxiety or has a fear of loud noises, try leaving classical music on while you’re gone, or during a storm. It can help calm the mind and soothe the soul. And maybe bring a little peace to your panting pooch.
Have a Dog Gone Great Day!
Kari
