How Music Can Help Calm Anxious Dogs During Travel
Traveling with pets has become a common practice among dog owners, yet two out of three pet owners report that their dogs experience anxiety while on the road. As summer approaches, and with approximately 75% of pet owners planning staycations, understanding how to ease your dog’s travel stress is essential.
The Power of Music for Your Dog
Research from the University of Glasgow reveals that music can significantly affect canine behavior. Sam Sutton, a senior lecturer in music at the University of West London, has crafted an ideal soundtrack designed specifically to soothe anxious dogs. His findings suggest that soft rock and reggae music have a particularly calming effect on dogs.
Top 10 Relaxing Songs for Dogs
Sutton’s curated playlist includes the following songs known for their calming effects:
- “How Deep is Your Love” by the Bee Gees
- “No Woman, No Cry” by Bob Marley
- “(Everything I Do) I’ll Do It for You” by Bryan Adams
- “I Want to Know What Love Is” by Foreigner
“Dogs exposed to a variety of sounds and styles demonstrated positive behavioral changes,” Sutton stated, reinforcing the idea that the right music can transform your dog’s travel experience.
Understanding Pet Reactions to Music
While music can provide comfort, not every tune suits every dog. A survey conducted by OnePoll indicated that 68% of dog owners realize that certain music can make their pets anxious. Notably, 36% of owners acknowledged difficulties in recognizing stress symptoms in their dogs while traveling.
Songs to Avoid on the Road
To help maintain a peaceful atmosphere during car trips, Sutton also compiled a list of songs best kept off the playlist:
- “Back In Black” by ACDC
- “Enter Sandman” by Metallica
- “Ace of Spades” by Motörhead
Knowing which tunes to avoid is just as important as knowing those that comfort your furry friend.
Expert Tips for Reducing Dog Stress During Travel
Becky Skyrme, a behaviorist at Blue Cross, shares essential guidance for preparing your dog for less stressful travel experiences:
- Start introducing your dog to car travel at a young age to establish a normalcy around it.
- Utilize comforting sounds and favorite toys to reward positive behavior when entering the car.
- Gradually increase travel time with short journeys ending in enjoyable activities.
- If your dog experiences motion sickness, consult with a veterinarian for tailored advice.
Skyrme emphasizes the importance of helping your dog feel safe and comfortable inside the vehicle, which can significantly reduce anxiety during trips.
Conclusion: Road Trip Ready with the Right Playlist
As you prepare for your upcoming road trip, remember to create a soothing environment for your dog with carefully chosen music. By selecting relaxing tracks and practicing stress reduction techniques, you can ensure that your furry friend enjoys every mile of the journey.
