Do Dogs Like Music? Vet-Verified Facts, Types & Benefits

We all know how easily and effectively music can change our moods, so it's only fair to wonder if our furry friends have their own taste in music! There have been plenty of people studying this over the years, and the truth of the matter is that dogs do like certain types of music.

But while music certainly affects their mood, it doesn't do so in the same way that it affects us, as they're entirely different creatures. That said, there are a few genres that they seem to prefer.

Do Dogs Like Music?

Music certainly affects our mood, so perhaps it's no surprise that it seems to also influence your dog's mood. Just keep in mind that we can't overly anthropomorphize what we take from music and expect our pets to react the same way.

While dogs do seem to like music, it's more about the tempo and less about which individual tunes they like the best. Dogs react differently to different types of music, and while they certainly calm down a bit around some music, other types may leave them feeling nothing much.

So, in short, dogs will like some types of music, not really care about other types, and simply dislike some of what we're listening to!

Which Type of Music Do Dogs Like?

Studies have shown that dogs typically calm down when listening to classical music, while louder music like hard rock can make them agitated or anxious.¹ Remember that it's not about personal preference; your dog responds to the beat and tempo of the music, and they don't necessarily care about the rifts or vocals.

Do Dogs Like Music When Left Alone?

As long as you leave the right type of music on for your pet when you're out of the house, it can be a good idea. Classical music and other soothing melodies can help reduce their separation anxiety and calm them, making it a great idea to leave it on when you're out of the house. It is worth noting, though, that this effect might eventually be lost if your dog becomes desensitized to the music.

Also, if you decide to leave the music on shuffle and loud rock-n-roll songs come on, you could be making them anxious, meaning it would be better to leave them in silence. But if you take the time to set up an appropriate playlist for them, they'll absolutely enjoy it while you're out of the house. Of course, each dog is an individual, so you should test this theory while still in the house in case they don’t respond well to it. You don’t want to just throw on a canine playlist and then leave for several hours without knowing how your dog will react.

If Dogs Like Music, What About the TV?

Just like music can have a calming effect on your dog when you're out of the house, so can the television. Similar to how you need to find the right music for them to listen to you, you also need to find the right channel on the television.

You want something that isn't super chaotic, like an action or horror movie. These movies can keep your dog feeling anxious from all the noise, which is the opposite of what you're trying to do. Instead, try to find something a bit calmer. Something featuring animals in motion is usually a good idea!

Conclusion

Now that you know a bit more about the types of music your pup does and doesn't like, you can be a bit more mindful when you're trying to put something on that calms them down a bit. Also, keep in mind that while louder music can agitate your dog, if they're with you, that's usually enough to keep them calm and happy.

See also:

• 15 Songs for Dog Lovers to Listen to

• Cocoa the Stick Figure Dog Loves Her Life With Reggae Band

Featured Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock