Have you ever played a gentle tune and noticed your dog lying down, closing their eyes, as if they were… enjoying the melody? Or perhaps loud music made them seem restless or uncomfortable?
Let’s explore with Furry® five types of music that studies have shown can help dogs relax, reduce anxiety, and improve their behavior in everyday life.
Can Dogs Hear Music?
The answer is YES. Numerous studies have confirmed that dogs not only have more sensitive hearing than humans but can also respond to rhythm, tone, and the structure of music.
A notable study from the University of Glasgow (Scotland) in collaboration with the Scottish SPCA found that music can directly affect a dog’s mood and behavior. Specifically, dogs exposed to different genres of music showed clear changes in their levels of relaxation, time spent resting, and anxiety-related behaviors.
Why Should You Play Music for Your Dog?
Music isn’t a replacement for proper care and training, but it can be a great tool in many situations, such as:
Helping your dog stay calm when home alone
Reducing destructive behavior caused by separation anxiety
Supporting better sleep, especially for puppies
Calming your dog during car rides or vet visits
5 Types of Music That Help Dogs Relax
1. Classical Music
This is the most well-researched genre for animals. Gentle pieces by Mozart, Beethoven, or Bach with slow tempos and soothing melodies have been shown to lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) in dogs. Many shelters and vet clinics play classical music to create a calming environment for pets.
→ Playlist suggestion: “Calm Classical for Dogs” – available on Spotify and YouTube.
2. Reggae
Another study from the University of Glasgow found that reggae also has a positive effect on dogs. Its upbeat yet relaxed rhythm and steady tempo help dogs feel safe and comfortable.
→ Artist suggestion: Bob Marley, UB40 – choose slower, mellow tracks.
3. Soft Rock / Light Pop
Some dogs respond well to soft rock or mellow pop songs with steady beats and moderate volume. It’s best to avoid tracks with strong bass or intense rhythms, which may overstimulate your dog.
→ Song suggestions: “Imagine” (John Lennon), “Let It Be” (The Beatles), “Fix You” (Coldplay).
4. Ambient / Chill Music
Instrumental ambient or chill music is also a favorite among modern pet owners. These tracks bring a sense of peace and calm, perfect for naptime or when you're working from home.
→ Suggestions: “Peaceful Piano” (Spotify), “Lo-fi Chill for Pets” (YouTube).
5. Alpha Wave / Meditation Music for Pets
A growing trend is using alpha wave or meditation music designed specifically for animals. These sounds use calming frequencies to stabilize the nervous system and regulate a dog’s heart rate—very useful during thunderstorms, fireworks, or transitions to a new environment.
→ Channel suggestion: “Relax My Dog – Music for Dogs” (YouTube).
Conclusion
Dogs can absolutely hear and respond to music. So if you’re looking for a simple yet effective way to help your furry friend relax, music is definitely worth a try. Observe how your dog reacts to different genres, and soon you’ll discover their very own “musical taste.”