Have you ever wondered what it is about the TV that grabs your dog's attention?
Just like us humans, dogs can become captivated by moving images and sounds. Their senses are naturally tuned to pick up on quick movements and vibrant colours, making television a fascinating pastime.
What do dogs see when they watch TV?
Dogs may see fewer colours than we do, but they are highly sensitive to movement and contrast.
They also have a higher flicker fusion rate than humans, of around 70-80 frames per second. This means old TVs with slower refresh rates were less captivating to our canine companions. With faster-refreshing scenes, it's now easier for dogs to process what's happening on television, without the images seeming fragmented.
Do dogs know the TV isn't real?
While we can't know for sure what dogs are thinking when they watch TV, dogs seem to know that the movement they see on the screen isn't actually happening in front of them.
Experts believe their incredible sense of smell helps them distinguish reality from what's going on on the screen- even though they may still react to what they see.
For example, some dogs will get excited by the sounds and sight of animals, even if they don’t understand the images. It isn't uncommon for a dog to bark at the TV, but their reaction is more about instinct and sensory cues rather than them thinking real animals have come into the room!
Is it safe for my dog to watch TV?
It's perfectly safe for dogs to watch TV in moderation, provided they don't get too worked up by the visuals or sounds.
This could lead to stress and over-arousal, so it's important to supervise your pup when you first introduce them to the screen.
What TV shows do dogs enjoy?
Cartoons and animated movies can be very appealing to dogs, as the contrasting colours, exaggerated movement and unusual characters create vivid scenes that capture their attention.
It isn't uncommon for animated movies to include other animals, which can add another layer of attraction for your dog. This combination of visual stimuli and sound can make cartoons a fantastic choice.
Nature documentaries also provide excellent enrichment, as they tap into your dog's natural instincts.
Canine-centered TV
There are a growing number of channels available that have been specifically created for dogs. This dedicated dog programming often includes footage of running and fetching activities, dog sports, bird videos, horse events or serene views combined with calming music.
The latter can be particularly useful if you're trying to soothe an anxious or high-energy dog.
Do different breeds enjoy different programmes?
Not all breeds will react the same way to what's playing on TV. Different breeds may have different interests, based on their innate behavioural traits.
Sporting and herding breeds, known for their keen eyesight and herding abilities, often enjoy shows that depict fast-paced action scenes and sporting events.
Toy breeds, including the Chihuahua and the Pomeranian, enjoy lots of comfort and companionship. They might favour gentle music and calming visual content.
Understanding your dog's response to the TV
When it comes to working out what your dog likes watching on TV, spend some time experimenting with different genres to work out what they enjoy most.
Some dogs might be sensitive to loud volume, so it's important to pay attention to your dog's reaction—if the audio seems too intense, dial it down a notch.
Your dog's body language will offer clues as to how much they're enjoying their screen time. Signs like a wagging tail, perked ears and a soft gaze suggest genuine interest and engagement.
If you notice signs of tension or anxiety - lip licking, yawning or a furrowed brow - it may be time to change the channel or move your pup away.
TV time should never replace companionship or exercise, but once you work out what programmes your dog enjoys, it can provide excellent additional enrichment for your four-legged friend.
