Ease Your Pet’s Separation Anxiety with Music

Mar 21

Music is a universal language that invigorates us to move, feel, and think! Just like how we use certain tunes and sounds to calm ourselves, dogs can also benefit from listening to music. Does your dog get scared during thunderstorms or fireworks? Do outside and unfamiliar noises make them nervous? Do they suffer from separation anxiety? The right playlist could help relieve your pet’s stress and anxiety.

Dog Separation Anxiety

What is separation anxiety and how can you identify the symptoms in your dog? Separation anxiety occurs when your dog suffers from extreme stress when you are away. Identifying the symptoms can be straight-forward. Symptoms include excessive barking, pacing and restlessness, aggression, repetitive or compulsive behaviors, and a change in appetite or weight. The anxiety can range from mild to severe. Some dogs exhibit anxious behaviors if they are not used to being left alone or if there is a change in the family’s routine.

What Kind of Music?

Certain music genres have proven to be more soothing and relaxing for your dog than others. Classical music has proven to calm down dogs in stressful situations. Next time your dog is exhibiting symptoms of stress, turn on some Bach, Beethoven, or Mozart. White noise is also a top contending genre to help relax your four-legged friend. Other genres include soft rock and Reggae beats.

When to Play Music?

Whenever you leave your dog at home alone
When your dog spends time crated or in their safe space
During the adjustment period when you bring home your new dog or puppy
During fireworks and thunderstorms, other loud noises
Help lull your restless dog to sleep
On the way to and during Veterinary office visits
Any car rides with pets

Music can benefit your dog in a variety of situations. You want to make sure they are comfortable with you and when you are away. Although every pet is different, the right playlist of the right music can help your pet with separation anxiety, but it may not work for every type of stress, or your individual pet.