Dogs take in the world in a completely different order than humans.  In people, the order is ears, eyes, and then nose.  For dogs, the experience is reversed–nose, eyes, then ears!  To reach a dog quickly, you should appeal to his sense of smell first.  Lavender and other soothing scents create a calm and relaxed state of being in both dogs and people.  So what about sound?

Studies have been done to measure the effects of music on our brains. Professionals in the fields of psychology and music believe that slower, deeper melodies have a soothing effect on us, while faster-paced or more intense music creates excitement. That’s why you’re more likely to hear Mozart or Chopin played on the speakers at your doctor’s office, while outdoor sporting events blast rock and roll! If you think about the language of energy, it makes sense; musicians project a certain energy, and that energy is expressed in their music.

Now studies are being done to measure that same effect in our dogs. When researchers polled rescues and shelters, they found that classical and jazz music calmed the dogs far more than pop or rock and roll.  Dog owners who play classical instruments claim that when they practice, their dogs will fall into a relaxed state. For them, the effects may be even greater than in independent studies of people. As the calm music relaxes them, their dog mirrors that energy back, and vice versa. In a sense, they become amplifiers for their own calm energy!

So next time you want a nice, soothing day at home with your dog, try putting on a classical or jazz mix! You might be surprised at the result!