Welcome to 'Unleashing Canine CounterStories: Exploring Humane Education with Dr. Lori". I am your hostess for this blog series where we dive deep into the fascinating world of human/canine relationships.To put it bluntly, it's complicated. But I'm here to help hash it all out!
In this series, we'll examine our interactions with our canine companions and discover ways to build stronger, more empathic connections by considering your dog's perspective along with your own. This is known as Canine CounterStories- taking a broader look into how something that has 'always been' may actually have had another angle to look at all along.
Today we will delve into the magic of song, and how music can enhance our lives and the lives of those around us. Pets love percussion too!
So let's begin..
As living beings, we all flourish through our five senses- smell, taste, touch, sight, and hearing- which work in harmony to help navigate the world around us. These senses work together to make sense of our surroundings and help us thrive. Whether walking on two legs or four, (or three! we can’t forget about our tripod friends) our senses are essential for balance, harmony, and well-being.
When we think of dogs and their superpowers, the sense of smell instantly comes to mind. Those sniffers can figure out all kinds of stuff! A dog's sniffing can be experienced together, like watching them investigate everything on a walk, but it doesn't have to be. When humans initiate a shared experience, we tend to rely heavily on taste and touch (think petting and alllllll those never ending treats).
As we look more closely into 'a day in the life' for pups and their people, let's shine a spotlight on one underestimated and often overlooked aspect of our shared sensory world: auditory perception, or the sense of sound. Because along with the superpower of sniff, dogs also have a more developed sense of hearing as well. This allows them to detect a broader range of frequencies and therefore they have more sound sensitivity.
Ever wonder how your dog knows when a vehicle is approaching from several blocks away? And not just any vehicle, but can also differentiate YOUR vehicle? Or how they may start responding to thunder and other weather events before you can hear the grumblings? They simply hear it before you do.
Given a dog's heightened sensitivity to sound, it is important to remember that yelling can be particularly distressing, whether yelling AT your dog or others.This includes family arguments and even arguments on movies and video. Not only can loud noises cause discomfort, this can also lead to feelings of anxiety or fear (see previous blog post Exploring Humane Education with Dr. Lori). To foster a harmonious relationship, consider calmer voices whenever possible. Think of loud noise as if you were in a huge empty amphitheater echoing and headache inducing, ouch! Volume and tone are much more important than you think.
Understanding the role that sound plays in how your dog connects to the external world can really create additional layers and depths to your connections with each other. By taking into account your dog's unique sound perception, it can take things up a notch and truly enhance your daily life together.
Enter the Sound of Music!
Music has numerous benefits for both physical and mental well-being. It can reduce stress by reducing cortisol. Dogs can have invisible stressors we don't even realize they are experiencing, and vice versa. For example, your dog doesn't quite understand what is happening or how your feelings may fluctuate when you are doom scrolling.
Music can improve mood and emotional well-being. Listening to music can create joyful times of happiness and pleasure by stimulating the release of dopamine.
Insider Tip: Feeling good feels good. For everyone.
So what type of music may be best? It all depends on your desired destination. Were you looking for chords to aid in chillaxin’, or is it time to channel your inner Kevin Bacon for a lively ‘Footloose’ and fancy-free dance party? (You know you just heard that guitar riff in your head- see how powerful music can be?)
Classical Music: Classical music can be a great tool to create a soothing atmosphere that promotes peace of mind. Most is purely instrumental with rhythms and melodies that promote a sense of calm.
Ambient Music: Ambient music has slow, steady tempos that aid in relaxation. A pioneer in the space of creating ambiance through music is 'Music for Airports' by Brian Eno, released in 1978.
Zen Music: Zen music, also known as 'zen meditation music' is a sub genre of ambient music specifically designed to promote inner peace.
Pop Music: Catchy melodies and upbeat rhythms can invite a spontaneous energetic dance session for sure. Whichever decade you prefer, your dog will play and dance right along. It's all about the energy!
Classic Rock: Some of those classics just get your toes tappin' and you almost can't help yourself! That feel good response will fill the room with joy that is sure to also get your dog's tail waggin' alongside these timeless classics. Iconic melodies transcend time and space which can dig up your own nostalgia. After all, this dance should be beneficial for you BOTH. Also, never underestimate the power of sing-alongs...Bohemian Rhapsody, anyone?
Dance Music: It's all in the name. Get up and dance. Dance in the kitchen, dance in the living room, dance in the backyard. Dance as if no one is watching. Just dance! This type of play will reap numerous benefits for both you and your dog, strengthening your bond and contributing to overall daily happiness. Dancing together not only provides physical exercise but also encourages positive social interactions and creates lasting memories. Either of you physically challenged? Try chair dancing for you and some light gentle, rhythmic petting or percussion taps on your pup so you are both still engaged and connected with the beats.
Musical Instruments: Engaging in the active creation of music can be an incredibly immersive and pleasurable experience. No real skills required, though if you have a skill-set in a particular musical instrument that is certainly a bonus.
Dogs may find certain musical instruments particularly enjoyable due to their tonal qualities and pitch. Here are some instruments that may produce the most beloved music to your dog's ears:
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Rain drum, steel drum, hand pan: easy to play with hand or drumsticks. I personally play a rain drum for my dogs and even my mini pig, Filbert. This is enjoyed by all!
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Acoustic guitar: gentle strumming with pick or fingers can bring about a chill vibe you both can enjoy,
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Harp: seated in a chair and plucking with fingers. Evokes feelings of tranquility
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Harmonica: Tiny and compact, but big on energy and fun, the harmonica can invite spontaneous dance moves at any time!
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Piano: Piano playing can be a wonderful bonding time if you have the skills. For those of us without that golden touch on those golden keys, check out 'Through a Dog's Ear' by Lisa Spector and Joshua Leeds.
Although I am mostly discussing playing and listening to music together, your dog can also benefit from having sound when home alone. By playing calming music for your dog when you are not home, it can create a relaxing environment that helps them feel safe and secure. No one likes hours and hours of complete silence. Aside from some of the calming musical genres mentioned above, also try Nature Sounds when nobody's home, such as a gentle wind or breeze, light rain, or rustling leaves. It will additionally lessen their response to every little noise outside the home, which can decrease barking- something your neighbors will also appreciate.
As you can see, music can be a wonderful way to end your day and something to look forward to as a nightly wind down ritual together. Or music can be a great start to your day that can get you movin' and groovin'- or both!
As you embark on this musical journey with your furry friend, remember to keep an open mind and explore a variety of genres and styles to find what resonates with both of you. The power of music can enhance your lived experiences together and deepen your bond - something most people rarely think about. Now you know so you and your dog can live your best life with this little secret fifth sense. You're welcome :)
So press play, let these joyous melodies fill your home, and enjoy the magic of music together. After all, life is too short to not dance with your dog!
