Introduction
Many pet owners don't think about this fact, but sensory input - and overload, for that matter - can dramatically affect our pets' day-to-day experience. As a responsible pet owner, it is important for you to take your dog's hearing into consideration and maybe refrain from playing Justin Timberlake's new song as loud as your system will go.
Signs a Dog Can Hear Loud Music
Sure, music is an excellent mood enhancer, but sound is also important to canine communication and it can have an effect on your dog's behavior. We've all been there - you are relaxing in the backyard when seemingly out of nowhere your dog starts howling, which is then followed by a chorus of howls from neighborhood dogs. This is one of the ways your dog communicates with others and is a direct example of how good their hearing is.
We will spare you an in-depth decibel conversation here, but the main takeaway should be that your dog's ears are sensitive and should not be abused. If you hear your dog howling or if you notice they seem to be cowering or leave the room when you watch a loud movie, that's a good indication your pup is feeling the effects of the noise.
Body Language
- Cowering
- Howling
- Ears drop
- Whimpering
- Ears back
Other Signs
- Leaving the room
- Exhibiting stressful or anxious behaviors
- Appearing agitated
History of Dogs Hearing Loud Music
So, while we may not be able to find the first report of loud music impacting a dog's hearing, the bottom line is that dogs have sensitive ears just like we do and extra care and precaution should be taken. If you are wondering if the stereo is too loud for their sensitive, magnificent ears, there's a good chance the answer is yes.
Be sensitive to your dog's hearing and take into consideration the fact their hearing is one of their most important senses. This is especially important with senior dogs, as their ears become increasingly sensitive as they get older. With this, try not to throw too many sounds at your pup all at once. If you are listening to music, don't have the TV on simultaneously in the background. And a general rule of thumb? The lower the volume, the better.
Science Behind Dogs Hearing Loud Music
At the same time, there are more than 16,000 little hair cells that move around when a dog hears loud music. If treated right, these hair cells can last a lifetime. However, prolonged loud music, gunshots, explosions, fire engine sirens, ambulances, and even loud power tools can damage these cells.
Humans can hear sounds between 20-20,000 Hz and dogs can hear noises twice as high, even up to 55,000 Hz. With this in mind, think twice about taking your dog to that outdoor concert or any other event where the noise could be unbearable.
Training Your Dog to Deal with Loud Music
If possible, minimize the amount of loud, out-of-the-ordinary noises your dog is exposed to. We know you want to take them everywhere, but sometimes it's important to think about their well-being and how an environment will affect them. Furthermore, dogs don't always understand where sounds are coming from and why (such as enthusiastic sports fans yelling at the TV). Your dog just doesn't get it - and that's OK.
Be considerate of your dog's ears, and ease them into louder environments that could make them feel uncomfortable. If you've just brought home a rescue pup or new puppy, don't immediately fall into the habit of listening to your favorite rock album as loud as your system will go. Exposing your dog to different sounds and environments is important, but not if it is going to come at a cost.
How to React When Your Dog Hears Loud Music:
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Pay attention to how they are acting.
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If you think it's too loud, turn it down.
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Remove your dog from an environment that is clearly making them anxious.