Do Dogs Enjoy Music? Here’s What They Prefer
Tanisha Kumari | Dec 18, 2025, 15:43 IST
Dogs and music
( Image credit : Freepik )
Dogs respond emotionally and physiologically to music due to their sensitive hearing. Studies show that slow-tempo, simple-structured music calms them while loud or aggressive genres overstimulate. Classical pieces, reggae and acoustic tracks are especially soothing making music a useful tool for reducing stress during thunderstorms, fireworks, travel or separation anxiety.
Pet parents notice their dogs reacting when music is played at home as some seem calmer while others become restless or bark. While dogs do not experience music the way humans do, science and animal behavior studies suggest that certain types of music positively influence a dog’s mood, stress levels and overall behavior.
Do Dogs Really Respond to Music?
Dogs unlike humans have always had a sensitive hearing meaning they detect small changes in tone, pitch and rhythm. This means that music affects them on an emotional and physiological levels. Studies have shown that dogs respond best to music with a slow tempo and simple structure. Lound and fast paced music overstimulate them while calmer melodies relax them.
Research shows that classical music has a calming effect on dogs. It lowers their heart rate, reduces barking and brings peace to them. Some classical pieces that dogs enjoy are Clair de Lune by Claude Debussy, Moonlight Sonata by Beethoven, Canon in D by Pachelbel and Air on the G String by J.S. Bach. These compositions have slow rhythms and gentle melodies that help dog feel safe and relaxed.
Reggae and Soft Acoustic Music Also Work
A research study done by the University of Glasgow had observed that dogs that were exposed to reggae showed more relaxed behaviour compared to those listening to pop or rock music. Songs like Three Little Birds and No Woman No Cry by Bob Marley as well as acoustic tracks such as Better Together and Banana Pancakes by Jack Johnson are known for their steady beats and soothing tones. These characteristics make them easier for dogs to process without sensory overload.
Not all kind of music is dog friendly as heavy metal, loud electronic dance music and aggressive rap increases stress and anxiety in dogs. These genres may cause pacing, whining or barking especially in sensitive dogs.
Music is especially of benefit to dogs during situations such as thunderstorms, fireworks, travels or when dogs are home alone. It also supports dogs with separation anxiety or helps establish a calming bedtime routine.
Dogs do enjoy music but only certain kinds. Soft classical, gentle reggae and acoustic melodies are calming and comforting for them so by paying attention to a dog's reactions and choosing the right sounds, music becomes a simple and powerful tool for improving a dog's emotional health.
Celebrate the bond with your pets, explore Health & Nutrition, discover Breeds, master Training Tips, Behavior Decoder, and set out on exciting Travel Tails with Times Pets!
Do Dogs Really Respond to Music?
sensitive hearing
( Image credit : Freepik )
Dogs unlike humans have always had a sensitive hearing meaning they detect small changes in tone, pitch and rhythm. This means that music affects them on an emotional and physiological levels. Studies have shown that dogs respond best to music with a slow tempo and simple structure. Lound and fast paced music overstimulate them while calmer melodies relax them.
Classical Music Is a Clear Favorite
Reggae and Soft Acoustic Music Also Work
Acoustic
( Image credit : Freepik )
A research study done by the University of Glasgow had observed that dogs that were exposed to reggae showed more relaxed behaviour compared to those listening to pop or rock music. Songs like Three Little Birds and No Woman No Cry by Bob Marley as well as acoustic tracks such as Better Together and Banana Pancakes by Jack Johnson are known for their steady beats and soothing tones. These characteristics make them easier for dogs to process without sensory overload.
Music Dogs Usually Dislike
When Music Helps Dogs the Most
Dogs do enjoy music but only certain kinds. Soft classical, gentle reggae and acoustic melodies are calming and comforting for them so by paying attention to a dog's reactions and choosing the right sounds, music becomes a simple and powerful tool for improving a dog's emotional health.
Celebrate the bond with your pets, explore Health & Nutrition, discover Breeds, master Training Tips, Behavior Decoder, and set out on exciting Travel Tails with Times Pets!