Does my dog like music?

The answer depends on what you listen to.

I am more likely to choose a podcast during a walk with Rufus, and obviously I use earphones, but I was wondering whether dogs actually enjoy music? It turns out that dogs are far more musically inclined than we give them credit for, but their taste in music may not match our own. Research shows that dogs have specific preferences when it comes to music, and it all depends on the type of tunes we’re playing.

What does the science say?

A study conducted by the Scottish SPCA and the University of Glasgow found that dogs do indeed respond to music but not all music has the same effect. Researchers observed dogs' behaviour while playing different types of music, including pop, rock, classical, soft rock and reggae. The results revealed that dogs’ heart rates and stress levels changed depending on the genre of music being played.

Interestingly, two genres stood out as clear favourites: reggae and soft rock. Dogs exposed to these styles of music were more likely to relax, lie down and show fewer signs of stress. In contrast, genres like heavy metal had the opposite effect, causing increased agitation and signs of anxiety. This research supports the idea that, just like humans, dogs have individual tastes in music, but they seem to have a collective preference for soothing, slower-tempo beats.

Why do dogs react to music?

Dogs process sound differently from humans, but they are still sensitive to pitch, rhythm, and tone. They have a wider hearing range than we do, so they pick up on sounds and frequencies that might be too high for human ears. Music with harsh, jarring sounds or unpredictable rhythms may trigger stress in dogs, while smooth, steady beats can have a calming effect.

The reason dogs respond positively to certain types of music may have to do with its similarity to natural, soothing sounds. Reggae and soft rock often have slow, steady rhythms that mimic the sound of a calm heartbeat or gentle environmental sounds like waves or rustling leaves. These sounds may trigger a relaxation response in dogs, similar to how white noise machines help us sleep better.

What music does your dog like?

While reggae and soft rock appear to be the most widely enjoyed genres, every dog is different. Some dogs may prefer classical music, which has also been linked to stress reduction in dogs. In kennels and animal shelters, classical music is often played to create a calmer environment for dogs who may be feeling anxious.

That being said, dogs, just like us, can have individual preferences. Some dogs may be indifferent to music altogether, while others may react strongly to certain tracks. Your dog's musical taste may be influenced by their personality, breed, and even their previous experiences with sound.

If you’re curious about your dog’s musical preferences, try playing a few different genres and observing how they respond. Do they relax and lie down? Do they pace nervously or bark? This simple experiment can help you discover which sounds put your pup in a peaceful mood.

How to create the perfect dog-friendly playlist

If you're planning a Spotify playlist for your dog, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Stick to soothing genres – Reggae, soft rock and certain classical music pieces have been shown to have calming effects on dogs. Avoid heavy metal, fast-paced pop, or anything with sudden, jarring sounds.
2. Keep the volume low – Dogs have more sensitive hearing than humans, so loud music can feel overwhelming. Keep the volume at a gentle, background level.
3. Choose steady beats and gentle rhythms – Steady tempos and repetitive rhythms are more likely to soothe your dog, similar to the effect of a heartbeat or the sound of rain.
4. Use music for specific purposes – Music can be helpful during stressful situations like fireworks, thunderstorms, or when you leave your dog home alone. Playing calming music while you’re away can help reduce feelings of separation anxiety.
5. Look for pre-made dog music playlists – If you’d rather not curate your own playlist, there are plenty of pre-made "dog-friendly" playlists on Spotify (other music streaming platforms are available). Some are even specifically for calming anxious dogs or helping them sleep.

When can music help your dog?

Music can be a useful tool for promoting calmness and relaxation in dogs, especially in situations where they might feel stressed or anxious. Here are some situations where music could make a difference for your dog:

• During fireworks or thunderstorms: Loud, unpredictable sounds like fireworks can be terrifying for dogs. Playing relaxing music can help drown out the noise and create a more soothing environment.
• When home alone: Leaving music on while you’re away can prevent your dog from feeling lonely. It mimics the sound of human activity, making them feel less isolated.
• At bedtime: If your dog struggles to settle down at night, gentle music can encourage a calmer bedtime routine.
• At the vet or groomer: Veterinary practices and grooming salons sometimes play calming music to reduce anxiety in dogs who may be nervous about the experience.

The next time you’re relaxing at home, consider putting on some Bob Marley or Fleetwood Mac and see how your dog responds. You might just find that your dog is a fan of the classics, too.