It’s December and all of our favorite (and least favorite) Christmas songs are blaring from every car stereo and CVS speaker. We all have our opinions on which songs get us in the holiday spirit and which ones make us long for the new year — but you might not consider that for your dog too. So, the music pros at Fanatix opens in a new tab has published a list of the most and least stressful Christmas songs for dogs.
Studies have shown that certain music can do wonders to relax a dog. In one study, opens in a new tab The dogs showed significantly calmer behavior during grooming sessions when they listened to classical music. On the other hand, heavy metal made them even more anxious. Songs with a tempo of 50 to 60 beats per minute (BPM) are most helpful, especially if they contain weak percussive elements – music with these qualities can lower cortisol levels.opens in a new tab (the stress hormone) in puppies.
Generally speaking, popular music has been shown to haveopens in a new tab a neutral effect on a dog’s behavior, and no one has measured exactly how puppies respond to Christmas music. That said, knowing what we know about a dog’s preference for a slower BPM, here are the twenty songs most and least likely to cause distress.
The 10 Most Stressful Christmas Songs for Dogs
If you’re a fan of these songs, you might want to wear headphones with your pup.
10. “Where are you Christmas?” » by Faith Hill — 168 BPM
You probably know this song from the 2000 film How the Grinch Stole Christmas. It’s a classic, but your dog may not like the Faith Hill version.
9. “We Wish You the Merriest” by Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra and Fred Waring – 169 BPM
Look, we’re not going to tell you to turn off Bing Crosby this Christmas. Simply move your dog to another room.
8. “Holiday Road – Spotify Singles Holiday” by Kesha — 170 BPM
You probably don’t think of Kesha when you think of vacations. Neither will your dog.
7. “Driving Home for Christmas” by Chris Rea – 180 BPM
If your pup hears this jingle at the dog park, he’ll want to be drive home.
6. “Please Come Home for Christmas – 2013 Remaster” by The Eagles — 183
You might like a throwback to the 70s. Your puppy? Not so much.
5. “Christmas Eve / Sarajevo 12/24 – Instrumental” by Trans-Siberian Orchestra — 186 BPM
Ah, yes, the famous energetic medley of “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” and “Carol of the Bells.” This might cause you to bang your head in the car, but it will likely stress your pet.
4. “Santa, Tell Me” by Ariana Grande – 192 BPM
Don’t worry, if you’re determined to raise a canine Arianator, there are plenty of slower tracks you can play.
3. “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Andy Williams — 202 BPM
Another classic your pup might want to skip.
2. “Mele Kalikimaka (Merry Christmas)” by the Andrews Sisters — 203 BPM
Tied for second place is this laid-back, sunny favorite.
2. “Merry Christmas Everyone” by Shakin’ Stevens — 203 BPM
You probably could have guessed that a band with “Shakin'” in the title isn’t the best choice for your pup’s nerves.
1. “Last Christmas” by Wham! — 206 beats per minute
And finally, the most stressful Christmas song for dogs: “Last Christmas.” We know: it’s a favorite for many. You can still play it at half speed.
The 10 Least Stressful Christmas Songs for Dogs
None of the popular hits are in the recommended 50 to 60 BPM range, but these slower-paced songs may be a little less anxiety-inducing than others.
10. “O Holy Night – Spotify Singles Holiday” by Ravyn Lenae – 84 BPM
A true classic that you can enjoy with your dog.
9. “The Prayer” by Céline Dion and Andrea Bocelli — 82 BPM
Your dog was sold on “Céline Dion”, then resold on “Andrew Bocelli”. Taste.
8. “Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane)” by Gene Autry – 80 BPM
It’s almost impossible not to sing this one. Do not hesitate to do this in the presence of your dog.
7. “Sleigh Ride” by the Ronettes – 77 BPM
There is no better phrase than “We are snuggled together like two birds of a feather” to listen to with your dog.
6. “Frosty The Snowman” by The Ronettes – 77 BPM
Another relaxing victory for the Ronettes!
5. “Christmas Is Here – Voice” by Vince Guaraldi — 75 BPM
A slow, calming favorite for the ages.
4. “The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas to You)” by Nat King Cole — 73 BPM
If the title doesn’t ring a bell, it’s the one that starts with “chestnuts roasting over an open fire” – a great choice for serenading your dog.
3. “Do you hear what I hear?” by Bing Crosby — 73 BPM
Your dog hears what you hear and he loves it.
2. “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee — 67 BPM
Preferring a slow tune doesn’t mean your pup can’t go wild this season.
1. “Carole des cloches (from Alone at home Original soundtrack) » – 47 BPM
Maybe they don’t like the Trans Siberian Orchestra version, but this slower selection from the Alone at home the soundtrack is the #1 least stressful song for dogs.
