When Dogs Listen to Music: What Does Science Tell Us?

It often happens, during an ordinary day, that a melody resounds in the house. And while the human sings, whistles or plays an instrument, the dog lies down on the carpet, folds his ears, or starts to look with that look you know well: pure love, in silence. But what really happens when our four-legged friends listen to music?

Music to your dog's ears?
Several scientific studies have investigated the relationship between dogs and sound. It seems that dogs not only hear better than us (thanks to a wide range of perceptible frequencies), but they are also emotionally influenced by what they listen to. The most interesting results come from environments with high levels of stress, such as kennels and veterinary clinics, where music has been shown to have tangible effects on behavior.

Sound as a Vibrant Language
Sound, on a physical level, is a vibration: a change in pressure in the air that propagates in the form of waves. These waves have a frequency, measured in Hertz (Hz), and every living organism – including humans and our pets – is made up of atoms and molecules that also vibrate. In other words, we are designed to perceive frequencies because we ourselves are part of them.

Every dog, every person, is a system that interacts with its surroundings also through sound, and certain vibrations – more than others – can resonate inside, influencing emotions, moods, attention levels and even behavior.

Genres that relax
Classical music, in particular, has a calming effect on most dogs. Slow pieces, with few changes in tempo and key, help reduce anxiety, slow the heart rate, and promote relaxation. Soft rock and acoustic ballads, if played softly, can also be pleasing to canine ears.

The enchantment of live sound
There is something even more powerful than recorded music: handmade music. Anyone who plays the piano, a keyboard or an acoustic guitar at home knows what happens: the dog approaches slowly, curls up at your feet, and watches with an almost enchanted look. It is as if he hears not only the notes, but also the intention behind each gesture. And that shared moment, made of sounds and silences, becomes one of the most beautiful ways to communicate.

Sounds to avoid
On the contrary, genres such as heavy metal, techno and electronic music at high volume can cause restlessness, barking or attempts to move away from the sound source. Dogs are very sensitive to deep bass and sudden sounds. Even instruments such as drums played in the presence, if too intense, can be annoying.

Custom playlists… or vocal ones!
Every dog ​​may have his own musical preferences. Observing his reactions to different genres can help you create a perfect playlist for him. Today, with vocal tools like Alexa , it's even easier: just ask "Alexa, play relaxing music for dogs" , and in a few seconds the environment changes tone. On Amazon Music, there are real sound selections designed to accompany the relaxation or sleep of our furry friends.

Music for every moment

  • During the more peaceful walks

  • When traveling by car to avoid stress

  • While they remain alone at home

  • Before bed, as background music

Music as a form of healing
Introducing music into your daily routine can help your dog feel safer, more peaceful, and closer to their human. Because deep down, for them too, there are sounds that remind them of home, affection, and balance. And maybe, just like it happens to you, there is a melody that makes them feel loved without the need for words.

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