Photo by Brina Blum
Leaving your puppy home alone can feel like a mini heartbreak—those big eyes staring up at you as you grab your keys, the little whimper when the door clicks shut. But what if there’s a simple way to make their solo time a little less lonely and a lot more fun? Enter music: your puppy’s new best friend when you’re not around.
Puppies, like us, are sensitive to their environment. The hum of the fridge or the occasional car horn might not bother you much, but for a young dog with sharp ears and a curious mind, an empty house can feel like a sensory void—or worse, a stress fest. Studies have shown that music can have a calming effect on dogs, lowering their heart rates and easing anxiety. And let’s be real: a relaxed pup is less likely to chew your favorite sneakers or serenade the neighbors with a howling solo.
So, what kind of tunes should you queue up? Classical music is a fan favourite—think Mozart or Beethoven. The soft melodies and steady rhythms can lull even the most energetic pups into a chill vibe. One study from the University of Glasgow found that shelter dogs exposed to classical tunes spent more time resting and less time pacing. But don’t stop there—your puppy’s playlist can have some personality. Reggae and soft rock have also been shown to keep tails wagging at a mellow pace. Bob Marley’s “Three Little Birds” might just convince your pup that every little thing’s gonna be alright.
Music for Puppies:
Try something like Spotify’s Calming Music for Dogs for over three hours of soothing tracks, or Apple Music’s Relaxing Dog Music for gentle instrumentals curated with pups in mind. Want a classical twist? Queue up Apple Music’s Classical for Pets. For a free option, YouTube Music’s Dog Relaxation Music brings ambient vibes to the table. Feeling creative? Use Spotify’s Pet Playlist tool to craft a custom mix based on your puppy’s personality. Keep the volume low—puppies have sensitive ears, and you’re aiming for background vibes, not a rock concert.
Photo by Timothy Buck
Beyond the calm factor, music might just make your pup feel less alone. It fills the silence with something familiar, a little piece of the human world they associate with you. Plus, it’s a guilt-free perk for pet parents—knowing your furry buddy is grooving instead of moping? That’s a win.
Next time you head out, don’t just leave a toy and a prayer—hit play on some puppy-approved jams. You might come home to a happier dog, a quieter house, and maybe even a new music critic in training. Who knows? Your pup could be the next big thing in playlist curation.
