Songs in India That Make Pets Happy: A Musical Bond Between Humans and Animals

Aparna Jha | Sep 16, 2025, 18:15 IST
A Happy Pup Lost in the Rhythm of Music
( Image credit : Unsplash )

Highlight of the story: Music is an inseparable part of Indian culture. From devotional chants in temples to the energetic beats of Bollywood, songs play a vital role in shaping moods and emotions. Interestingly, this influence of music is not limited to humans alone. Pets, especially dogs, cats, and birds, respond positively to certain types of melodies and rhythms. Indian households have long noticed that pets feel calmer, more joyful, or even more energetic when exposed to specific songs. This article explores how songs in India can affect pets, which genres are most effective, and how music strengthens the bond between pet owners and their furry or feathered companions.

The Science Behind Music and Pets

Songs in India That Make Pets Happy
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Pets, like humans, are sensitive to sound frequencies and vibrations. Studies worldwide have shown that animals react differently to music depending on pitch, rhythm, and tempo. Dogs usually find comfort in soft melodies, while cats may prefer steady rhythms. Birds, on the other hand, often mimic or chirp along with tunes that resemble natural sounds.

In India, music is diverse and deeply emotional. From classical ragas that create peace to folk beats that inspire liveliness, the spectrum is wide. These musical variations directly influence pets’ mood and behavior. For example, a soothing raga in the morning can calm an anxious dog, while lively folk music may make parrots flap their wings and sing along.

Bollywood Songs and Pets

Grooving to the Beats: A Dog Enjoying Music
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Bollywood is the heartbeat of Indian music. Its songs range from romantic melodies to peppy dance numbers, and pets respond to both in unique ways.
Soothing Romantic Songs: Dogs often react positively to slow Bollywood romantic numbers. Tracks by singers like Arijit Singh or Shreya Ghoshal can relax them, especially after a stressful day or loud noises from outside.
Energetic Dance Songs: Parrots and playful dogs tend to enjoy faster beats. Songs like “London Thumakda” or “Kala Chashma” may make pets jump, wag their tails, or chirp along.
Instrumental Bollywood Tracks: Background scores or instrumental versions of famous songs can also calm pets, as they are free from sudden loud beats.
Bollywood songs often blend rhythm and melody in ways that resonate with animals, making them a natural choice for pet owners in India.

Indian Classical Music for Pets

Indian classical music has long been linked to healing and wellness. The tradition of ragas is believed to influence both human and environmental energy. Interestingly, many pet owners report that their animals become more peaceful when exposed to classical tunes.
Morning Ragas: Ragas like Bhairav and Todi are known for their calming effects. Dogs exposed to these ragas often appear more relaxed, reducing signs of separation anxiety.
Evening Ragas: Tunes such as Yaman or Bageshree help calm pets before bedtime. Cats, in particular, respond well to these gentle melodies.
Flute and Sitar: Instrumental pieces using bansuri (flute) or sitar produce vibrations that resemble nature sounds, which birds enjoy. Some parrots even attempt to mimic these notes.
Classical Indian music, with its natural flow and absence of harsh sounds, is particularly helpful for pets that are sensitive to loud noises such as fireworks or city traffic.

Devotional and Bhajan Music

Songs in India That Make Pets Happy
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In many Indian households, devotional songs or bhajans play daily during morning rituals. Pets that grow up in such environments often associate these songs with peace and safety.
Dogs: Bhajans create a calm atmosphere that helps reduce stress. Many dogs lie down peacefully during the chanting of “Om Namah Shivaya” or the Hanuman Chalisa.
Cats: Cats respond well to repetitive rhythms found in devotional music, as it mimics a soothing heartbeat pattern.
Birds: Birds may chirp along with the repetitive tunes of bhajans, creating a joyful harmony in the home.
This daily routine not only relaxes pets but also makes them feel included in the spiritual rhythm of the household.

Folk Songs and Regional Tunes

India is home to countless folk traditions, and pets respond to them in vibrant ways.
Bhojpuri and Maithili Songs: The rhythmic beats of dholak and tabla can make pets excited and playful. Dogs may wag their tails while parrots may mimic the rhythmic sounds.
Punjabi Folk Music: The dhol beats in Punjabi songs often energize dogs, especially active breeds like Labradors or German Shepherds.
South Indian Folk: The use of traditional instruments like nadaswaram or mridangam creates rich soundscapes that stimulate birds, making them more vocal.
Folk songs are often full of energy, which makes them ideal for playtime with pets.

Lullabies and Children’s Songs

A Heartwarming Human-Animal Connection
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Indian lullabies are not only for babies; they also work wonders on pets. The repetitive and soft rhythm creates a sense of comfort. Cats often curl up to sleep when such songs are played, while dogs may rest calmly.

Children’s songs in Hindi and regional languages also attract pets. Their playful tone, high-pitched voices, and clear rhythms are especially appealing to birds, who may try to mimic the simple tunes.

Creating a Playlist for Your Pet

To keep pets engaged and happy, pet owners can create a special playlist of Indian songs. Here are a few tips:
Mix Genres: Include classical ragas for calm moments, Bollywood hits for playtime, and bhajans for mornings.
Observe Reactions: Not every pet reacts the same way. Watch your pet’s body language to understand which songs they prefer.
Control Volume: Pets have sensitive ears, so always play music at a moderate volume.
Use Music During Stress: Play soothing songs during fireworks, thunderstorms, or when leaving the house to reduce anxiety.
Involve Them in Routines: Make music a part of daily activities like feeding, grooming, or bedtime.

Strengthening the Human-Pet Bond Through Music

Indian Melodies That Bring Joy to Pets
( Image credit : AI (Chatgpt) )
Music creates an emotional connection between pet owners and their animals. Singing along to Bollywood tunes, relaxing together with classical ragas, or simply playing a bhajan in the background fosters trust and companionship. Over time, pets begin to associate these songs with love, safety, and comfort.

This musical bond reflects the larger cultural truth of India: music here is not just entertainment but also a medium of connection, healing, and joy.


Songs in India are more than just melodies; they are experiences that shape emotions and relationships. Pets, being sensitive creatures, respond to music in ways that bring joy to households. Whether it is the calming effect of classical ragas, the energetic beats of Bollywood, or the peaceful chants of devotional songs, Indian music offers a wide range of benefits for animals.

By observing and curating music for pets, owners can improve their pets’ mental well-being and strengthen their emotional bond. In a country where music is woven into daily life, it is heart warming to know that pets, too, can find happiness in these timeless tunes.

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Frequently asked questions:
Do pets enjoy Indian music?
Yes, many pets respond positively to Bollywood, classical, and devotional songs in India.Which songs calm dogs the most?
Slow romantic Bollywood numbers and soothing classical ragas usually calm dogs.Do cats like listening to music?
Cats often relax to steady rhythms and soft instrumental or devotional songs.Can I play loud Bollywood dance songs for pets?
Yes, but only in moderation energetic songs excite pets, while constant loud music may stress them.Should I create a playlist for my pet?
Absolutely, mixing calm, devotional, and lively songs keeps pets happy and engaged.
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