Music is not only a human pleasure; it’s also a significant influence on animal behaviour. Scientific research and anecdotal evidence increasingly suggest that dogs, like their human counterparts, can respond emotionally to the music they hear.
The Science of Sound and Sensibility
Dogs possess a unique auditory spectrum, being able to hear frequencies much higher than humans. This heightened sensitivity suggests that they might react to music more profoundly or differently than we might expect. Studies conducted by behaviourists have shown that music can affect dogs’ behaviour in various environments, including shelters and home settings.
One significant study conducted in a shelter environment observed the effects of different types of music on dogs’ stress levels. The results, published in the Journal of Veterinary behaviour, indicated that classical music leads to behaviours associated with relaxation such as lying down and a decrease in barking. In contrast, heavy metal music seemed to increase restlessness and barking.
Genre and Behaviour: What Music Soothes the Beast?
Classical Softness: Classical music is often synonymous with calm and control in humans, and it appears to have a similar effect on dogs. In multiple studies, classical pieces with slower tempos and simpler melodies have reduced anxiety and induced calm in dogs. Composers like Bach and Mozart, known for their soothing symphonies, seem to be canine favourites.
Jazz and Blues: The impact of jazz and blues on dogs seems to be mixed, depending largely on the complexity and volume of the music. Softer jazz can be soothing, but louder or more complex arrangements may cause confusion and stress due to their unpredictable nature.
Reggae and Soft Rock: A study by the Scottish SPCA and the University of Glasgow found that reggae music and soft rock are the most effective genres for reducing stress and anxiety in dogs. These genres may offer a rhythmic consistency that dogs find soothing, much like the effect these tunes have on human listeners.
Pop and Cheerful Tunes: Pop music’s upbeat nature might resonate well with some dogs, especially those that are more energetic. Anecdotal evidence suggests that pop music can encourage playfulness and active behaviour in dogs, much like it often lifts the spirits of human listeners.
Heavy Metal: Consistently, heavy metal seems to induce stress and undesirable behaviours in dogs. The loud and aggressive nature of this genre can lead to increased barking and restlessness, making it less ideal for a calming influence.
Practical Applications: Using Music as a Behavioural Tool
For dog owners and handlers, understanding the impact of music on canine behaviour can be a valuable tool. Playing soothing music can be a strategic choice in various scenarios:
During Fireworks and Thunderstorms: Playing classical music or soft rock during loud events can help mask the frightening sounds and keep dogs calmer.
In the Car: To help ease anxiety during car rides, soft music can provide a distraction and soothe nervous pets.
At Home Alone: Leaving music on while a dog is home alone can help alleviate separation anxiety and provide a comforting presence.
At Daycare: Here at Paddington Pups, we often strategically use different types of music in our main play areas to influence our pups’ behaviours! We tend to play more upbeat music in the mornings to encourage play, and settle into slower, calmer music in the early afternoon to soothe the pups into and afternoon nap.
The exploration of how different genres of music affect canine behaviour is still an evolving field, blending observations from animal behaviorists with experiences from everyday dog owners. What is increasingly clear is that music is not just a universal language for humans but extends its communicative power to our canine friends as well. By choosing the right kind of music, we can significantly enhance the quality of life and emotional well-being of our beloved pets.