Just like music can affect our mood, music can be beneficial for your dog’s well-being. Studies have shown that classical music, in particular, can help dogs relax. Most of these studies have focused on dogs in rescue kennels, but music may also be helpful during other stressful times (such as at the groomer’s, during travel, and during separation).

Of course, all dogs are unique. Some dogs will prefer different music, and some may not like music at all! So, it’s important to introduce music slowly and to pay attention to your dog’s body language.

Why Music Can Help Calm Dogs

We all know first-hand that music influences human emotions. Well, more recent research has shown that the same can be true for dogs. It’s important to be mindful that a dog’s hearing is different from ours, meaning your dog may not enjoy the same music as you!

As well as calming vibrations, music can help drown out noises your dog may find scary, such as other dogs barking or the mail carrier.

What Research Shows About Music and Dog Relaxation

Most research around music and dog relaxation so far has focused on rescue or veterinary settings, where dogs tend to be most anxious. The studies measure how music affects markers of stress, such as cortisol (the stress hormone), breathing rate, and vocalization. 

While more studies are needed for conclusive results, the studies so far are promising. 

For example, one study found that kennelled dogs spent significantly more time lying down and relaxing than standing up when music was playing. Dogs were also more likely to bark when the music stopped playing.  

Another study examining the influence of sound on dogs’ behavior in a rescue shelter suggested that the dogs’ welfare may be improved with appropriate music.

Similarly, a study looking at the effects of classical music on dogs in grooming settings concluded that classical music can enhance dog welfare in these environments. 

How Dogs Perceive Sound Differently From Humans 

Sound consists of energy waves. ‘Hertz (Hz)’ is a measure of the frequency of these sound waves (in other words, how many oscillations a sound wave completes per second). The higher the frequency (or Hz), the higher the pitch. Humans can hear frequencies in the range 20 – 20,000 Hz; whereas dogs can hear frequencies up to at least 50,000Hz! 

Key musical characteristics for calming dogs

A study conducted by a veterinary neurologist and a psychoacoustic expert (who studies how sounds are perceived) showed that slower tempos and simpler sounds have a greater calming effect on dogs. Slower tempos and simple sounds were more effective in reducing anxiety. 

Try to avoid music that could resemble thunder or fireworks (lots of clashing or deep rumbling, for example). This may have the opposite of the desired effect!

As dogs age, their hearing changes, just as it does in humans. Senior dogs can become more sensitive to high-pitched frequencies (such as high notes on woodwind instruments or the piano). 

So, let’s take a look at which types of music are best for dogs.

Genres of Music That Calm Dogs

Several studies have focused on the effects of different types of sounds or genres of music on dogs. For example, one study looked at the effects of human conversation as well as classical, heavy metal, and pop music on the behavior of dogs in a rescue shelter. It showed that dogs spent more time resting when classical music was played, whereas heavy metal actually encouraged dogs to bark. 

Other studies have supported the claim that classical music may be the genre with the most calming effect, as measured by how quickly dogs lie down and settle when their owner leaves. Interestingly, audiobooks did not seem to have the same effect, with most dogs simply staring at the speaker instead! 

Research at a Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals rescue center found that dogs in kennels showed fewer signs of stress when listening to music, and that soft rock and reggae had the most calming effect.

So, classical music, soft rock, and reggae seem to be the winners as voted by our canine companions! In fact, a 2020 review of the literature supports the general observation that animals appear less anxious when exposed to classical music, compared with control conditions. 

While these studies are useful, remember that every dog is unique. You probably enjoy different music genres than your friends, and your dog is no different. Individual preference is important. Studies have even shown that familiarity can enhance the likability of specific sounds (in other words, dogs prefer music types that they are used to). 

There are various options for specifically designed ‘dog music’ available to help you find appropriate choices (and remember to take into account your own dog’s preferences).

How to Create a Relaxing Dog Music Environment

As with any change, you will need to take your time and introduce music gradually, allowing your dog time to acclimatize. Puppyhood is the ideal time to introduce music, if possible.

Here are our 5 top tips for introducing calming music to your dog:

  1. Start by playing some music while you’re pottering at home, and watching your dog’s reaction. Look out for signs of relaxation rather than excitement or anxiety. This will help you determine which music calms your individual dog.
  1. Play the music a little and often at times when your dog is calm. If you only play music when your dog is already anxious, this may actually create a negative association. In other words, they may then associate music with feeling anxious.
  1. Play music when you’re at home. If you only play music when you’re leaving the house, this can also create a negative association. Your dog will learn that music means you are leaving soon!
  1. Keep the volume down! While it can be tempting to try to drown out other noises, remember that dogs have much more sensitive hearing than we do. Your dog may not appreciate loud noise. 
  1. Mix it up! Playing a variety of music reduces ‘habituation’, where playing the same music becomes less effective over time. 

Remember to watch your dog’s body language. Music won’t suit all dogs! Especially rescue dogs when we don’t have their full history: they may already have a negative association with music. 

When to Use Music for Your Dog

Music can be useful in a variety of circumstances. Music for dogs can be especially useful in:

  • Rescue centres
    Most studies on the effects of music on dogs have focused on kennel environments. One study has even suggested that classical music not only calms dogs but also their potential adopters.
  • The groomers
    A recent 2025 study concludes that classical music can enhance dog welfare at the groomers.
  • Travel
    Music can be used in any situation your dog finds stressful. Some dogs fear traveling in the car or even flying on a plane, so playing calming music on a journey may help your dog to settle.
  • Separation anxiety
    Music may help your dog with separation anxiety to settle when you’re out for short periods, with classical music thought to be especially effective.
  • Noise Phobias
    Calming music can help with noise phobias when used correctly. Calming music may help distract your dog from fireworks, thunder, or other dogs barking.

Naturally, music is not a magic cure. Calming music can help with mild anxiety or certain stressors. It is not a replacement for veterinary or behavioral treatment, so there are times when music just won’t cut it!

Types of Music that Calms Dogs 
While classical music may help dogs calm down in various situations, it’s essential to observe their reaction.

When Music Isn’t Enough

Although studies so far are promising, the results are mixed, and more research is needed to determine the potential benefits, uses, and best type of music. If your dog suffers from moderate or severe anxiety (including separation anxiety or noise phobias), then music alone will not be enough. Your dog may also benefit from:

Music may still have a role alongside these other treatments, as part of a ‘multimodal’ approach. 

If you are concerned about your dog’s behavior or mental well-being, book a check-up with their veterinarian. They can rule out underlying medical conditions that can mimic anxiety (such as pain), offer treatment advice, and refer your dog if needed.

Final Notes on Calming Music for Dogs

Studies have shown that music may reduce stress and encourage relaxation behaviors in dogs, especially in kennel situations. Classical music seems to be the winner for dogs in terms of genre!

Music can be a useful tool for helping your dog relax in certain situations, such as when you go out, during thunderstorms, or while traveling. But you should introduce music slowly and pay attention to your dog’s body language so that you can learn their individual preference (or otherwise). And unless the anxiety is mild, music must be used alongside treatment from a veterinarian or accredited behaviorist.

Does your dog provide emotional support?
Work with a licensed professional to get a legit ESA letter in your state.

Get started here