Many dogs like to watch TV, and though their taste in television programs may differ from your own, watching TV is not harmful to dogs. Rather, some shows can contribute to effective pet care. Below is a guide to help you understand your dog’s TV watching.

What Does TV Look Like to Dogs?

Domestic dogs see television images similarly to humans, and they’re smart enough to recognize screen images of animals and animal sounds, like dogs barking. They can even identify animals they've never seen in real life.

Dogs’ eyes register pictures faster than human eyes. They usually won’t have a problem watching HDTVs because their quick eyesight keeps up with the increased screen refresh rate. Older television sets show fewer frames per second than modern ones, so to dogs, the program would flicker like an old silent movie.

Dogs also see colors differently than humans, in real life and on TV. Dogs have dichromatic vision, which means they only see shades and combinations of yellow and blue.

Why Do Some Dogs Like TV More Than Others?

Whether or not a dog reacts to the TV may depend on breed or personality. Dogs, like people, have unique personalities. Some dogs run around, jump, or bark excitedly at TV shows, while other dogs ignore it.

TV-watching dogs often get excited when they hear a dog barking on a program. Some may only bark at animals on the screen; others might run around looking for them.

A dog’s breed may also influence its reactions to television. Hounds are more interested in smell than visual stimulation, so they’re often less interested in the TV. For herding breeds like collies and corgis, the movement stimulates them, so they’ll pay more attention to the onscreen action.

Dog TV

If you’re concerned about your dog’s TV watching habits, try DogTV, a high-definition cable channel designed specifically for dogs. With different modes for relaxation, stimulation, and training, DogTV could be part of a healthy pet care routine.

How to Train Your Dog to Stay Calm While Watching TV

Incompatible Behavior Training

Properly training your dog is part of responsible pet care, and it will enhance both of your lives. To keep your dog from jumping or running around, teach them to do an opposite behavior. Practice “sit” or “down” commands with your dog in front of the TV while it’s off. Then practice with the TV on at low volume. Once your dog has mastered the command, ask your dog to sit before turning on the TV.

Use the No Bark Command

Turn the TV on to get your dog to bark. When they stop, give a “no bark” or “quiet” command followed by a treat. If the dog doesn’t stop barking, hold the treat in front of them until they stop to eat the treat, then let them have it. Practice consistently, and your dog will learn to stay quiet while the TV is on.

Dells Animal Hospital in Wisconsin Dells, WI, provides high-quality pet care and veterinary services for clients in Adams County. Specializing in TightRope® surgeries and Dental Digital Xrays, Dells Animal Hospital offers a full range of pet care services, including grooming, vaccinations, nutritional counseling, medication, and surgical services. Call (608) 235-7301 or visit their website to set up an appointment for your pet.