Shih Tzu dogs, like humans, have their own preferences when it comes to sounds. What they like often depends on their individual experiences. For example, Shih Tzu living in apartments might get excited when they hear the elevator arriving on their floor because it could mean someone’s coming home!
However, there are some sounds that generally stress out our furry friends. Thunderstorms, ambulance sirens, fireworks, and other loud noises fall into this category. On the flip side, there are sounds that seem to make Shih Tzu happier and more relaxed. Let’s explore some of them:
1. The Owner’s Voice (in a high-pitched tone): Despite not understanding the words we say, Shih Tzu enjoy hearing our voices, especially when we use a high-pitched tone. A study from the University of York found that dogs often respond better to commands given in a high-pitched voice. So, don’t hesitate to have “conversations” with your Shih Tzu!
2. Nature Sounds: Urban noises like car horns, engine revving, and sirens can be stressful for us, let alone for Shih Tzu, who have keen hearing. In contrast, sounds of nature, like birdsong or the sound of waterfalls, grab their attention in a positive way. These natural sounds tend to calm Shih Tzu down, with some even falling asleep to them.
3. Reggae Music: While classical music is usually associated with relaxation, a study from the University of Glasgow found that it could eventually bore dogs, making them more anxious. Reggae, on the other hand, was found to keep dogs calm for longer periods. Scientists suggest that the beats in reggae, which mimic the heartbeat, may remind Shih Tzu of the soothing sounds they heard as puppies, like their mother’s heartbeat.
4. Squeaky Toys: Shih Tzu often prefer toys that make noise, like squeaky toys, over silent ones. This preference is linked to their natural instinct to play with prey that makes sounds. In the wild, prey animals tend to make noise when caught.
5. Sounds Indicating Play and Interaction: Remember when we mentioned earlier that Shih Tzu’s liking for certain sounds is tied to their previous experiences? Well, in general, their favorite sounds are the ones that signal their owner is about to interact with them! Closing a laptop, turning off the TV, the sound of a doorknob being turned, or even the noise of kibble being poured into their bowl can all excite Shih Tzu because they associate these sounds with playtime and attention.
It’s essential to pay attention to your Shih Tzu’s reactions to these sounds. If your furry friend gets overly anxious or restless, it might be a sign that they need more attention and entertainment. So, keep the conversations going, play some reggae, and make those squeaky toys squeak to keep your Shih Tzu happy and content!