Best TV Shows to Leave On for Your Dog
Leaving the TV on for your dog while you're away can be a great form of entertainment and enrichment. With a variety of shows and streaming platforms now featuring content tailored specifically for pets, you're no longer limited to rerunning old cartoons or your favorite sitcoms. Dogs respond to visuals, movement, and especially sound—so it's important to pick the right type of programming.
Why Some Dogs Enjoy Watching TV
Dogs can see television, but their vision differs significantly from humans'. They see the world in shades of blue and yellow and have a higher flicker fusion rate, around 70-80 frames per second. This means they can more easily detect movement on a screen, which explains why some dogs are drawn to action-packed videos or animal scenes.
Additionally, sounds like barking, meowing, and rustling foliage are effective at holding a dog's attention. Breeds such as Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and Whippets—especially those with a strong prey or herding drive—are often more engaged by television than others.
Top TV Channels and Shows Made for Dogs
- DOGTV: A streaming service designed specifically for dogs. Developed with veterinarians and animal experts, it uses optimal colors, movement, and specially composed music to stimulate or relax dogs. Programming includes relaxation videos, stimulation segments, and exposure therapy.
- Happy Dog TV: Found on YouTube, this channel features calming scenes and nature visuals perfect for anxious pets.
- Paul Dinning animal videos: YouTube videos featuring animal walks and interactive sounds, great for visual and auditory stimulation.
- Animal Planet: Offers a variety of animal-themed content that naturally engages dogs who like to watch animals move and interact.
- Healing Mate – Dog Music: A YouTube channel that provides relaxing music paired with soft visuals to soothe nervous dogs.
Recommended TV Shows for Dogs and Owners
- Dogs (Netflix): A compelling series exploring the relationship between people and their dogs around the world.
- The Pack (Amazon Prime): A reality competition featuring dog-human teams on worldly adventures—dogs enjoy the visuals, and owners can follow the story.
- Dogs with Jobs (Amazon Prime): Showcases working dogs in action, perfect for pups interested in movement and sound.
- Bluey (Disney+): Although designed for children, many dogs are drawn to the sound design and animation.
- Reality Dog Training with Zak George (YouTube): Useful for both pets and owners, this series showcases training methods and dog interaction.
- Dug Days (Disney+): A light-hearted series following Dug from 'Up'—highly visual and emotionally engaging.
- America’s Top Dog (Hulu): A contest show with agility course footage, perfect for breeds who love high-energy visuals.
- The Dog House: UK (Hulu/Paramount): Documentary about dog adoptions, featuring plenty of canine screen time.
Child-Focused Cartoons Featuring Dogs
- Blue’s Clues
- Clifford the Big Red Dog
- PAW Patrol
- Adventure Time
- The Mr. Peabody and Sherman Show
- Scooby Doo
These shows often include friendly, animated dogs and sound effects dogs find amusing or soothing.
General Tips for Selecting Dog-Friendly TV
- Look for Animal Content: Dogs tend to focus more on other animals, particularly dogs.
- Stick to Blue and Yellow Tones: These colors are most visible to dogs.
- Beware of Overstimulation: Loud or fast-paced scenes can lead to anxiety in some dogs.
- Observe Your Dog's Behavior: Every dog is different—monitor their reactions and adjust content accordingly.
Supplementary Enrichment Beyond TV
- Use puzzle toys for mental engagement.
- Provide treat-dispensing toys to keep them busy.
- Try white noise machines to mask street or household sounds.
- Offer calming toys or blankets for dogs experiencing separation anxiety.
- Nothing replaces regular companionship and outdoor activity.
TV can be a helpful addition to your dog's daily routine, especially during your absence, but it should always supplement—not replace—physical exercise and human interaction.
