Can Dogs Hear Loud Music? 

It’s that time of the year where we are blasting our radios or phones while taking part in Spring cleaning. Have you ever wondered if your music has an impact on your dog’s ears? We all know that dogs have great hearing so it only makes sense that they can hear the music. As a responsible pet owner, it is important for you to take your dog’s hearing into consideration when playing your music. Let’s dive deeper into the issue at hand!

Sound happens to be a very important means of canine communication. It can also have an impact on your dog’s behavior. Your dog’s ears are sensitive and should not be abused by any means. If you hear your dog howling or notice they seem to leave the room when you play loud music (or even blast the TV), it is a good indication that your dog is affected by the noise.

There are other signs that your dog may be feeling the impact of loud music. These include cowering, dropping ears, or whimpering. They may also exhibit stressful or anxious behaviors and/or appear agitated. Much like humans, a dog’s hearing structure starts with sound waves that cause the eardrums to vibrate. This is then transmitted as movement of the small bones in the middle of the ear. Next, vibrations are sent to the cochlea, or the fluid-filled part of the inner ear.

Studies show that there are more than 16,000 small hair cells that move around when a dog hears loud music.  Unfortunately, prolonged loud music (and other loud noises) can damage these cells. You should limit the number of loud noises that your dog is exposed to. Taking your dog’s well-being into consideration is one of the best things you can do as a pet parent. The next time you play music, pay close attention to how your four-legged friend is acting. If you think it is too loud, then turn it down. Otherwise, remove your dog from the environment for the time being.