Introduction
Dogs require both physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. One great way to provide mental enrichment for dogs is through videos designed specifically to engage and entertain them. Watching videos gives dogs an outlet to focus their energy and attention, while providing a source of novelty and variety in their daily routine. Videos for dogs feature sights, sounds and movement that tap into canine instincts and hold their interest. This can provide dogs with much-needed mental exercise to complement their regular physical activity. Thoughtfully created videos allow dog owners to interact with their pets in new ways and strengthen their bond through shared experiences. This content will explore the world of dog videos – the different types available, their benefits for dogs, and tips for selecting and showing videos to maximize enjoyment for canine viewers.
Types of Dog Videos
There are a variety of videos made specifically for canine viewing. Some of the main types include:
TV Shows and Movies with Dog Characters
Dogs seem to especially enjoy watching other dogs on screen. There are movies and TV shows that feature dog protagonists, such as Disney’s Lady and the Tramp and Nickelodeon’s PAW Patrol. Seeing dogs in recognizable situations and adventures seems to hold their interest.
Instructional Videos
Instructional videos can provide mental stimulation and learning opportunities for dogs. These may demonstrate dog training techniques, like sit, stay, come, heel, etc. There are also agility and obstacle course videos to get dogs excited about physical activities and tricks.
Nature Videos
Watching videos with animals, landscapes, and other natural environments can provide dogs with mental enrichment. It exposes them to sights and sounds they may not encounter regularly indoors. This taps into their natural instincts to explore the outdoors and interact with other animals.
Benefits
Watching videos provides many benefits for dogs when done appropriately. Some of the main advantages include:
Provides mental stimulation – Watching engaging videos gives dogs’ brains some much-needed exercise. Visual stimulation promotes mental sharpness and keeps their minds working.
Reduces boredom and anxiety – Videos can keep dogs happily occupied when alone, reducing restlessness and stress. The distraction of a video may prevent barking or destructive behaviors.
Gives exposure to new sights/sounds – Videos allow dogs to experience novel things they wouldn’t see in their daily life. This sensory enrichment exposes them to new sounds, environments and animals to keep things interesting.
Creating Engaging Content
To create content that will keep your dog’s attention, it’s important to include elements that engage their senses. Use upbeat music that will pique their interest. Songs with higher tempos tend to work well. You can also include sounds that grab dogs’ attention, like doorbells, knocking sounds, and bells. Show animals or activities that dogs are inherently interested in, like other dogs, squirrels, balls, and frisbees.
As this article on making viral pet videos suggests, “Use upbeat music that is lively and cheery throughout the video. Dogs love listening to fast tempo and major key songs.”
And this guide recommends including sounds: “Use sounds that dogs are conditioned to react to, like doorbells and knocking. When they hear these, it will grab their attention.”
When choosing visuals, focus on “Showing animals and activities that fascinate dogs, like other dogs playing, squirrels running around, or someone throwing a ball.”
Video Length
Most experts recommend keeping dog videos short and concise in order to retain a dog’s interest. According to VetStreet, the ideal length for a dog video is 2-4 minutes. Anything longer than that may result in the dog becoming bored or distracted.
The general consensus on forums like Reddit seems to be that 5-15 minutes is a good target length for a dog video. Very short videos under 2 minutes may not hold a dog’s attention long enough, while videos longer than 15 minutes risk the dog losing interest.
When determining the right length for your dog’s video, consider factors like their age, energy level, and ability to focus. Puppy and high-energy dogs may need shorter videos to prevent restlessness. Older or more mellow dogs can likely handle longer videos. Get to know what works for your individual dog.
When to Play Videos
There are certain times when playing videos for your dog can be particularly beneficial. According to a blog post on the Humane Society’s website, playing videos for your dog when they are left alone can help ease anxiety and provide mental stimulation.
The post recommends cueing up several hours of relaxing videos before you head out the door so your dog has something entertaining to watch while you’re gone (1). This can help distract them from missing you and prevent problem behaviors like excessive barking or destructive chewing.
Videos can also be helpful right before stressful events like Fourth of July fireworks. The sounds and lights of fireworks can be alarming for many dogs. Turning on a video before the fireworks start can help distract and calm your pup (2).
Finally, videos come in handy during active times of the day when walking or playing outside isn’t possible due to weather or other circumstances. Rather than have your energetic dog pacing around from boredom, turning on an engaging video gives them an outlet for mental stimulation (3). Just be sure to still take your dog out for potty breaks during these times.
Sources:
(1) https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/watch-dogs-canine-enrichment-videos
(2) https://www.reddit.com/r/dogs/comments/119yhjk/best_dog_videos_for_my_dog_to_watch_while_im_away/
(3) https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/how-to-entertain-a-dog-home-alone/
Choosing Videos
When choosing videos for your dog to watch, it’s important to first assess your dog’s unique interests. Some dogs may prefer watching other dogs playing and running around, while others may be more intrigued by videos of various animals or nature scenes. Try cueing up a few different types of videos to see which ones your dog reacts to most positively.
According to a Reddit thread on r/dogs, many owners have success finding engaging videos for their dogs simply by searching “videos for dogs” on YouTube and selecting ones with high view counts (1). This suggests that popularity and watch time can serve as indicators for quality when it comes to choosing dog videos.
As you test out videos, pay close attention to your dog’s body language and engagement. Does your dog seem intrigued and watch the screen for longer periods? Or do they quickly lose interest and walk away? Monitoring your dog’s reactions will help you narrow in on the types of videos they find most stimulating. Stick with videos that hold their attention and engage their natural instincts.
With some experimentation, you’ll likely find certain videos your dog just can’t get enough of. Save these tried and true videos to create a custom playlist your dog will love watching whenever you step away.
Equipment
The main piece of equipment you’ll need to show videos to your dog is a TV, computer, or tablet. It’s important to place the screen at your dog’s eye level so they can watch comfortably. According to Dog Trainer’s Umbrella, you may want to invest in a sturdy stand or mount to securely position the screen at the ideal viewing angle for your dog.
Other optional equipment that can enhance the video watching experience includes:
- Speakers – To amplify audio from videos
- Treat dispenser – For rewarding your dog during training videos
- Clicker – To mark behaviors during training
With just a screen and access to dog videos, you can create an engaging activity for your pet. But adding a few supplemental items can take it to the next level and make training through video more effective.
Safety Tips
When allowing dogs to watch videos, it’s important to keep safety in mind. Here are some tips:
Don’t leave dogs unattended with screens. It’s best to supervise them to make sure they don’t get too excited or accidentally damage the equipment. Be sure to only play dog-friendly content that won’t upset or overstimulate them.
Ensure videos are dog-friendly and non-toxic. Some videos may contain flashing lights, loud noises, or other elements that could provoke anxiety in dogs. Stick to content specifically designed to relax and engage canine viewers.
Monitor the volume. Dogs have very sensitive hearing, so keep the volume low to avoid discomfort or damage.
Avoid small choking hazards around the screening area. Dogs may get curious and ingest harmful items like batteries or small pieces of plastic.
Pick a safe, comfortable environment. Set your dog up in a quiet, climate-controlled room with no major hazards or distractions present.
Take breaks. Don’t overdo screen time. Limit videos to short sessions and give your dog’s eyes a rest periodically.
Make sure your equipment is securely mounted and durable enough to withstand some pawing or nibbling. Large screens or projectors can be easily knocked over.
Supervise young puppies especially closely. Puppies will require diligent monitoring as their curiosity may lead them into trouble.
With some basic precautions, you can safely enrich your dog’s life with entertaining videos tailored just for them!
Summary
The topic of videos for dogs to watch is fascinating and beneficial for dog owners. While dogs can’t actually “watch” videos in the same way humans do, they can still gain enjoyment and enrichment from audiovisual content. Some key takeaways:
Dog videos come in many formats – footage of other dogs, people talking, sounds of nature, music, etc. Choosing videos that align with your dog’s personality and sensitivities is important.
Benefits of playing videos for dogs include reducing separation anxiety and boredom, providing mental stimulation, masking stressful noises, and more.
Videos should be energetic, colorful, movement-heavy, and auditory to fully capture a dog’s attention. Short clips work better than lengthy footage.
It’s ideal to play dog videos when they are alone, like during the day while owners are at work. Make sure to provide adequate breaks as well.
Carefully pick videos suitable and enjoyable for your individual dog. Avoid anything overstimulating, frightening, or upsetting.
Position screens safely and securely for viewing. Don’t leave dogs unsupervised around loose wires or equipment.
Lastly, there are many online resources for finding quality dog videos or instructions for making your own. With the right content and setup, videos can be an enriching form of entertainment for your furry friend!