Dog parents often leave the TV or radio on when their dogs are home alone. One expert even recently made what he described as the “optimal” playlist for lowering anxiety and stress in dogs, but does music have any effect on them?
That’s something a new study from Queen’s University in Northern Ireland has tried to get to the bottom of. In the study, led by Dr. Deborah Wells from the university’s School of Psychology, researchers exposed dogs to both classical music and audiobooks while separated from their owners for a short period of time. This allowed them to gauge the effects of both.
Classical Music Made Dogs Settle Faster
The findings suggested that dogs exposed to classical music were faster to lie down and settle than dogs exposed to audiobooks. The former showed a moderately calming effect while the latter made no difference.
“We know from previous studies that classical music and audiobooks can help welfare dogs to relax, especially when they are facing chronic stress,” said Dr. Wells, “In our latest study, we tested whether this is also the case for domestic dogs who were separated from their owners for a short period of time.
“Many dog owners leave the radio on while they’re at work … However, the findings show that this type of audio has little value in situations where animals are likely to be experiencing acute stress – for example, separated from their owners for a few hours.”
Leaving Dogs Home Alone
We’d love to spend all day with our dogs. However, work and school commitments can mean that sometimes they’re going to be home alone for a little while.
It’s best to get your dog used to being alone for short periods of time while they’re still a puppy. Ensure that there are plenty of toys around to keep them busy while you’re out, like puzzle toys and toys that dispense food or treats – like KONGs.
When deciding how long your dog can stay home alone for, consider their bladder control too. Younger and older dogs in particular are more likely to need to go outside more frequently.
If you’re always out during the week, the American Humane Society recommend hiring a dog walker, or considering doggy daycare. Even if it’s just for a day or two each week, it could benefit your dog.
And, of course, make sure that you spend some quality time with them once you’re back at home!
