Life can feel scary through a dog’s eyes. Rolling thunder can sound like earth-shattering explosions. Sleeping in a crate for the first time can feel isolating. Couple that with being away from their favorite person, and it’s no wonder some dogs are prone to stress. This is where white noise machines for dogs enter the picture. They’re amazing tools for reshaping dogs’ behavior and helping them navigate distressing situations.
These devices emit a constant stream of audio to drown out loud, sudden sounds, such as fireworks or heavy construction. They can also help dogs sleep through the night by offering a calming sound to redirect their focus. The great thing about these devices is that they’re relatively inexpensive. Plus, any dog, even one without apparent anxiety, can benefit from using one.
White Noise Machines Use Noise to Soothe Anxious Dogs
So, what is white noise? The first sound that comes to mind is that “shhh” sound that used to accompany cable TVs without signal. It’s also similar to the sound emitted by hairdryers, air conditioners, and running water. It’s different from “brown noise” and “pink noise” in that instead of audible sound rising and falling, various soundwaves combine and stay at the same frequency.
As we’ll explain shortly, there are different types of white noise machines, and some offer more advanced features than others. For example, some no-frills white noise machines are simply speakers with on/off switches. More advanced models turn on when your dog begins barking excessively, even offering variations of white noise at different volumes.
Although white noise machines are a great tool for dog owners, they’re not a one-stop solution to stress, separation anxiety, or issues arising from canine dementia. They’re best used in combination with positive reinforcement training and other methods used to help dogs manage their triggers. An animal behaviorist could be a helpful resource if your dog’s anxiety begins to affect their day-to-day routines.
What Dogs Can Benefit from White Noise Machines?
Any dog could potentially benefit from using a white noise machine. Yet, these devices are specifically designed to comfort:
- Senior dogs who struggle with sleeping. It’s an unfortunate fact of life that some older dogs have problems falling and staying asleep. They may be more sensitive to certain sounds or become anxious when the sun sets. White noise machines can block out upsetting sounds and allow the dog to focus on a singular sound as they fall asleep.
- Dogs who bark excessively. Depending on where you live, the sound of dogs barking outside may be unavoidable. A white noise machine can drown out other dogs’ barking and prevent your dog from joining the chorus.
- Puppies. Many puppies recently separated from their mothers will exhibit signs of stress, whether that’s whining in their crate or struggling to fall asleep. The steady “shhh” of a white noise machine may help alleviate their anxiety or offer a welcome distraction.
- Destructive dogs. In many cases, a destructive dog is an anxious dog. A white noise machine can redirect a dog’s anxiety and soften their response to certain triggers, such as being left alone for prolonged periods.
Experimenting with a white noise machine is a low-risk, high-reward endeavor. Many of these machines are easy to set up, inexpensive, and a game changer for many dog owners.
Different Features of White Noise Machines for Dogs
There is a white noise machine for every price point and purpose. Still, some offer more customizable features than others. For example, some white noise machines are outfitted with timers, offering set-it-and-forget-it convenience. Devices without timers generally run continuously until the battery dies, or they’re turned off manually.
Another feature many owners enjoy is built-in microphones that detect when their dogs start barking or whining. In response, the white noise machine begins emitting sound, immediately working to soothe an anxious dog in its owner’s absence. This feature is generally paired with what many products call “memory keeping,” which is when the device memorizes the exact sound and volume used previously. That way, owners don’t have to fumble with the device’s settings every time they use it.
While many white noise machines plug into the wall using USB cables, some devices are battery-powered. This offers another layer of convenience for owners who are constantly on the move with their pets. Using a white noise machine in the car could help a dog grow accustomed to riding in the vehicle, ultimately working to drown out loud engines, car horns, and screeching tires. With consistent use, a dog who once hated riding in the car could learn to love the adventure!
Things to Consider About White Noise Machines
Understanding the pros and cons regarding white noise machines can help you make informed decisions regarding your dog’s health and well-being. The pros are fairly straightforward. Over time, you could see a marked improvement in your dog’s sleep patterns, temperament, and response to triggers. In the long run, these improvements can build your dog’s confidence and enhance their overall quality of life.
Of course, there’s no such thing as a perfect product, and there are some downsides to know about. For starters, white noise machines are not the final solution to behavioral issues. They’re a great tool while you work to address the underlying cause of your dog’s stress and work to mitigate it. With exclusive use, your dog could get used to the white noise machine and no longer get the full benefits.
Another concern is noise level. Louder isn’t always better. White noise is generally between 60 and 65 decibels, about the same volume as a shower running. Blasting a white noise machine constantly could damage your dog’s hearing, particularly if the machine is left running in small spaces. You should be able to hold a normal conversation while the white noise machine hums in the background.
Other Devices Intended to Soothe Dogs
White noise machines are one of many products designed to help dogs power through stressful events. Others include:
- Calming shirts. Also known as anxiety vests, these garments resemble shirts and are usually made from a breathable fabric, like polyester. They apply a firm yet gentle pressure over your dog’s chest, shoulders, and back. It’s the same concept as swaddling a crying baby to soothe them.
- Specially-formulated calming treats. Some calming treats aim to mellow out high-energy dogs with ingredients like melatonin or chamomile flower by making them sleepy. Others work to address the symptoms associated with stress. For example, calming treats with ginger root can soothe anxious dogs’ tummies.
- Collars that release pheromones. To a dog, there’s nothing more soothing than their mother’s scent, even after they’ve passed puppyhood. Calming collars are infused with certain odors that remind a dog of its mother, working to pacify them.
White noise machines are just one options of working to reshape your dog’s behavior and help them thrive. Not everything will work for every day, so the best thing you can do is talk to your vet and try the product, and observing your dog’s reactions. No matter the cause of your dog’s stress or anxiety, there are many tools and resources that can help them.
