The Paw People

Leaving your pet for any period of time can be difficult. We only want the best for our furry family. We want them to be infinitely entertained and content. That’s why many pet owners choose to leave on some form of entertainment for their pets, whether it be music or podcasts, or leaving the TV on cartoons or Animal Planet. Is this really helpful to our pets? Well, let’s dig a little deeper!

Reports Show…

Here’s a fun fact: Citing a study done by Rover, “more than 2/3 of dog parents leave the TV on for their pups when they’re not home”.

DOGTV is a fascinating TV channel expertly made for the eyes and minds of dogs. Nicholas Dodman, the head scientist of DOGTV, provided an intriguing insight into dogs’ reactions to TV. “Different dogs, like people, have different personalities,” he said. “Beyond biology, how dogs react to TV—whether it’s running around, barking excitedly, or just ignoring it—may come down to personality or breed.”

While many scientific studies have surfaced on this topic, there is no conclusive evidence as to whether leaving the TV while we’re away is helpful to all dogs.

Separation Anxiety

Dogs with separation anxiety may benefit more from having the TV on as a distraction. The effect is best produced after training your dog to recognize the TV as a reward. To do so, give them a treat/toy every time you turn on the TV. Then, when you turn it on before you leave, they’ll associate it in a positive manner. The effect is likely to soothe them and distract them from the loss of your presence.

Other Options When You Leave Your Dog

Music, podcasts, and pet-friendly websites could also be used to entertain your pet while you step out. But, we can think even further outside the digital box!

Puzzle toys and games for dogs have become popular, and they’re an excellent option to try for your dog. The Kong is an absolute classic choice, and it’s very affordable as well (not sponsored). That’s just the tip of the iceberg. A wide range of puzzle toys exists for dogs and cats alike. Pick a few for starters, and see what your pooch enjoys the most!