What is DOGTV?
DOGTV is the first TV channel created specifically for dogs. It provides relaxation and stimulation content to keep dogs engaged when their owners are away.
According to Wikipedia, DOGTV is an American premium cable television network and the first of its kind made just for dogs. The network was founded in 2012 by Ron Levi, an animal behaviorist, and Gilad Neumann, a serial entrepreneur.
DOGTV was developed by experts including veterinary behaviorists to provide appropriate visual and audio content to keep dogs relaxed, entertained and stimulated while home alone.
Why dogs need DOGTV
DOGTV provides important benefits for dogs, especially when their owners are away or the dogs are experiencing stress or anxiety. Studies have shown that DOGTV helps alleviate stress and loneliness in dogs home alone. The programming features stimulating content specifically designed for dogs, using dog-friendly colors, sounds, and footage. This mental stimulation helps avoid destructive anxious behaviors like excessive barking, chewing, or restlessness.
The videos capture the attention of dogs and provide mental exercise to keep them occupied. This is particularly beneficial for senior dogs who need more rest and relaxation. According to research, DOGTV helps senior dogs stay calm and content when their owners are away or sleeping. The programming reduces stress and anxious behaviors seniors may experience when left alone without stimulation. DOGTV gives them engaging content to watch, listen to, and interact with.
Requirements for watching DOGTV
Before you can let your dog enjoy the entertainment and relaxation of DOGTV, there are a few requirements to make sure your pup can get the most out of the experience.
First, you’ll need a TV with access to the DOGTV channel or app. This could be through a cable package that includes DOGTV, such as DirecTV, or by streaming DOGTV through services like Roku. Make sure your TV provider carries DOGTV or you can access it through a streaming device.
You’ll also want to position the TV so your dog can comfortably view the screen. Place it at their eye level and where they typically rest or relax. Don’t mount it too high on the wall or put it in a distracting location.
Finally, keep the TV on when you leave the house or anytime your dog is home alone. The content is designed to ease anxiety, curb boredom, and keep your pup engaged. Leaving DOGTV on provides mental stimulation and companionship while you’re away.
As long as you have access to DOGTV content, a properly positioned TV, and keep it on for your dog, you’ll have the right setup for your pup to enjoy all the benefits of television made just for canines.
DOGTV Channel Packages
DOGTV offers a variety of channel packages to meet the needs of dogs and their owners. DOGTV is available through certain cable and satellite providers like DirecTV, where it can be accessed as a 24/7 channel. For those without access through a TV provider, DOGTV offers streaming packages that can be viewed on smart TVs, computers, tablets, and phones.
The 24/7 DOGTV channel is available to DirecTV customers as part of the entertainment package for $74.99 annually after a free trial period according to the DOGTV website. This provides unlimited access to the always-on dog TV station.
For those looking to stream dog TV, DOGTV offers a few different package options. The 24/7 streaming package provides continuous access for $9.99 per month. There is also a daytime streaming package available for $4.99 per month that includes 8 hours of daily programming. An annual subscription can be purchased for either the 24/7 or daytime package to save over 35% according to Mashable. DOGTV can then be streamed through supported devices.
With choices for cable/satellite channel access or streaming packages, DOGTV offers flexible viewing options at different price points to best suit each owner and pup.
DOGTV Streaming Options
DOGTV offers several streaming options to watch their content on various devices. DOGTV has apps available for major streaming platforms like Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Chromecast. This allows you to stream DOGTV through your TV.
DOGTV also has mobile apps for both iOS and Android. This allows you to stream DOGTV content directly on your smartphone or tablet. The mobile apps give you the flexibility to watch anywhere.
In most cases, streaming DOGTV requires a paid subscription to access their content. They offer various subscription options that provide access across devices.
Sample DOGTV Content
DOGTV provides a variety of dog-friendly programming designed to entertain and relax dogs of all ages and breeds. Some examples of the types of content featured on DOGTV include:
Relaxing music and scenery videos: These videos feature calming music and peaceful natural scenery to help soothe anxious or high-energy dogs. The sights and sounds can help dogs to unwind and settle down at home.
Invigorating dog sports/activities clips: For dogs that need more stimulation, DOGTV offers exciting clips of dogs participating in dog sports and activities like agility, flyball, dock diving and more. These energetic videos can help engage active dogs.
Cognitive games and dog-friendly ‘shows’: DOGTV also creates dog TV shows with simple stories, animations and sounds that capture dogs’ interest. There are also segments focused on providing dogs with mental enrichment through interactive games on screen.
According to DogTV’s website https://www.dogtv.com/, their programming is designed by pet experts to appeal specifically to dogs visual and auditory senses. The videos can help dogs relax, stimulate their minds, or burn pent-up energy.
Getting dogs interested in DOGTV
When first introducing your dog to DOGTV, start with shows that are catered to their preferences and personality. For example, choose slower-paced shows for anxious dogs, or more stimulating content for energetic dogs. Keep the volume low at first to avoid overstimulating your dog’s sensitive hearing. Use treats periodically to direct your dog’s attention to the screen and reward them for looking at it. Once your dog seems relaxed and attentive to the shows, you can gradually increase the volume if needed.
According to dog owners on Reddit, some dogs may not take to DOGTV right away. Be patient and try different types of shows to find what captures your dog’s interest. Consistency is key – make watching DOGTV part of your dog’s daily routine and they will likely come to enjoy it.[1]
[1] https://www.reddit.com/r/dogs/comments/piny3f/how_to_get_my_dog_more_interested_in_dogtv/
Monitoring your dog’s viewing
When your dog first starts watching DOGTV, pay close attention to their reaction to the various shows. Look for signs that indicate if they are feeling relaxed or stimulated by what they are watching.
Relaxed behaviors may include lying down, resting their head, soft or slow breathing, yawning, or even falling asleep. On the other hand, signs of stimulation can include ears or head perking up, getting excited by or reacting to things on screen, panting, pacing, or trying to interact with the TV.
Based on their reactions, adjust their DOGTV viewing schedule and habits accordingly. For example, if they seem very stimulated, try limiting viewing to shorter time periods. Or if they don’t show much interest in certain shows, try changing the channel or turning it off.
Keep experimenting to find the right balance where your dog feels relaxed and comfortable watching DOGTV. The goal is for it to be a positive experience for them. With time and observation, you’ll learn the optimal way to incorporate DOGTV into their routine.
Additional tips for success
Here are some additional tips to help make DOGTV a success for your dog:
Make sure your dog is comfortable while viewing. Allow them to sit, lie down, or watch from their bed or crate – wherever they seem most relaxed. Don’t force them to stay in one spot.
Try to stick to a regular daily schedule for DOGTV, just as you would for walk and feeding times. Dogs appreciate and benefit from routine.
Use DOGTV as an enrichment activity alongside daily walks, playtime, training and bonding. It should not replace regular interaction and exercise.
The future of DOGTV
DOGTV continues to expand its offerings and reach to provide more customized content for canine viewers. According to the DOGTV website, the channel plans to roll out over 50 hours of new pet-oriented programming over the next year [1]. This new content will cater to different breeds, ages, and needs of dogs.
Researchers are also studying the effects of DOGTV on dogs to optimize the content. Early findings show reduced stress and anxiety in dogs who watch DOGTV regularly [2]. As researchers learn more about how dogs respond to different visual and auditory stimuli, DOGTV can continue developing shows that captivate canine audiences.
In addition to new shows, DOGTV is expanding to more platforms and countries. The channel is already available through streaming apps like Roku and Apple TV, allowing owners to access programming anywhere. Going forward, DOGTV plans to increase distribution to make their content available to dogs and owners worldwide.
While much of the programming is screen-based now, DOGTV is also exploring more interactive formats. As technology advances, there may be opportunities for two-way engagement between dogs and their personalized content. This could open up new possibilities for cognitive stimulation, training, and play.
Overall, the future looks bright for DOGTV as both a pet entertainment and research platform. With a commitment to understanding dogs’ needs and an ever-expanding content library, DOGTV aims to be the top destination for quality dog TV.