Best TV Shows to Leave on for Your Dog
Many pet owners worry about leaving their dogs alone at home, especially for prolonged periods. A common question among dog lovers is: What TV show should I leave on for my dog? With advancements in pet-specific entertainment and a better understanding of canine behavior, there are now multiple TV channels and streaming options designed to provide mental stimulation, comfort, and entertainment to your furry companion.
The Science Behind Dogs Watching TV
Dogs can indeed watch TV, though their visual and auditory perception differs from humans. Key factors include:
- Color Sensitivity: Dogs see mainly in shades of blue and yellow, with reds and greens appearing gray. Content with high contrast and blue-yellow hues is more engaging.
- Motion Detection: With a high flicker fusion rate (70–80 frames per second), dogs can detect quick movements better than humans.
- Sound Sensitivity: Audio elements like barking, meowing, or familiar outdoor noises can quickly catch a dog’s attention.
Dog-Friendly TV Channels and Programs
Here are some excellent TV and streaming options tailored just for dogs:
- DOGTV: A subscription channel developed with veterinarians, featuring scientifically designed content in calming colors, slow beats (50–70 BPM), and specific sound frequencies. It offers relaxation, stimulation, and desensitization programming.
- Happy Dog TV: Available on various platforms like YouTube and Roku, this channel presents visuals and sounds to calm dogs.
- Paul Dinning’s Animal Walks: YouTube videos that simulate nature walks, stimulating a dog’s instinctual interest.
- Animal Planet: Features animal-centric shows that often catch a dog's attention through sound and motion.
- Healing Mate – Dog Music: Provides soothing music and visuals designed to calm anxious dogs.
Top Streaming Shows for Dogs and Their Owners
Some programs appeal to both dogs and their humans:
- ‘Dogs’ (Netflix): An emotional documentary exploring global dog-human bonds.
- ‘The Pack’ (Amazon Prime): A reality competition combining travel and canine abilities.
- ‘Dogs with Jobs’ (Amazon Prime): Showcasing working dogs in different roles.
- ‘Bluey’ (Disney+): A fun family cartoon with canine characters, visually engaging for dogs too.
- ‘Dug Days’ (Disney+): Animated series featuring Dug the dog from the movie ‘Up.’
Classic and Animated Series Dogs May Enjoy
These shows, while not designed for pets, can be captivating to dogs due to visual motion and animal sounds:
- ‘Blue’s Clues’
- ‘Clifford the Big Red Dog’
- ‘PAW Patrol’
- ‘Scooby Doo’
- ‘The Jetsons’ (with Astro the dog)
Breeds That Enjoy Watching TV
Some dogs are more drawn to TV than others. Breeds known to enjoy screen activity include:
- Herding breeds: Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, German Shepherds
- Sight hounds: Greyhounds, Whippets
- Working dogs: Rottweilers
However, it’s crucial to note that every dog is unique. Some may ignore the screen, while others may react strongly to certain visuals and sounds.
Benefits and Limitations of Dog TV
- Mental Enrichment: Helps reduce boredom in solitary dogs.
- Calming Influence: Programs with music and nature scenes can alleviate anxiety.
- Training Tool: Desensitizing videos prepare dogs for certain sounds or environments.
Despite these advantages, TV should not replace daily exercise, playtime, or human interaction. Overreliance on screen media can lead to overstimulation or reinforce undesirable behaviors in some dogs.
Other Home Enrichment Ideas
While TV is helpful, it should be part of a broader enrichment plan that includes:
- Puzzle toys: Provide mental challenges and rewards.
- Treat-dispensing devices: Keep dogs engaged while reinforcing positive behavior.
- White noise machines: Mask outside sounds for sound-sensitive pets.
- Calming toys: Comforting for dogs with separation anxiety.
Choosing the Right Show for Your Dog
When selecting TV content:
- Start with animal-centric shows or programs specifically designed for dogs.
- Observe your dog’s reactions.
- Limit screen time if signs of anxiety or overstimulation appear.
TV for dogs is a valuable tool if used appropriately. By combining stimulating and relaxing shows with toys and bonding moments, you can create a balanced and enriched home environment for your canine companion.
