Does a blue bed help a dog relax, or is it simply a colour they can see? Those are different questions. Dogs do see colour, but seeing blue does not establish that blue bedding, collars or lighting will calm an anxious dog.
If your dog enjoys their favourite blue blanket, keep it. You do not need to redecorate the house to help them settle. Look first at their comfort, routine and what is happening around them.
What colours can dogs see?
Research on canine vision shows that dogs have two types of cone photopigment, rather than the three involved in typical human colour vision. This is called dichromatic vision. Their colour distinctions differ from ours, particularly for reds and greens.
Blue and yellow can be useful choices when thinking about visual contrast. However, colour alone does not determine how easy an object is to find. Its brightness, the background, the lighting and your dog’s eyesight also matter.
Does blue have a proven calming effect?
The evidence for dogs seeing colour should not be presented as proof that a particular colour lowers anxiety or heart rate. Research demonstrating colour vision does not, by itself, demonstrate a calming effect.
A bed’s location, comfort and familiar smell may matter far more to your dog than its colour. A dog resting on a blue blanket does not show that blue caused the relaxation. Avoid relying on coloured lights or accessories as a treatment for distress.
Try colour as part of a simple game
Place a familiar toy on a clear, safe surface and let your dog find it. Compare how easily they notice it against different backgrounds. Keep the game easy, use a non-slip area and let them choose whether to join in.
Sniffing games are another option, especially when a toy is difficult to spot. Our rainy-afternoon activities include simple ideas for searching, gentle play and short training sessions.
Help your dog feel comfortable at home
Offer a suitable resting area away from busy household traffic. Give your dog the choice to move away from noise or interaction, and protect their rest from interruptions. Balance suitable activity with toilet breaks and quiet time.
Watch the dog in front of you. Pacing, repeated attempts to escape or difficulty settling need attention to their cause. If the behaviour is persistent or has changed suddenly, speak with your vet. A change of colour will not rule out pain or other health concerns.
If you need help with the household setup or everyday training, contact Jordan Dog Training to discuss suitable support.
Common questions
Should I replace my dog’s bed with a blue one? Choose a bed that suits your dog’s size, comfort and sleeping habits. There is no need to buy a blue bed on the promise that the colour will treat anxiety.
Is blue lighting necessary in a crate? No. Focus on a comfortable sleeping arrangement and your dog’s response. A crate is optional, requires a gradual introduction and does not suit every dog.
Research
Neitz, Geist and Jacobs (1989): Color vision in the dog. This research concerns colour vision, rather than treatment of anxiety.
Justin Jordan is a dog behaviourist and the founder of Jordan Dog Training, a family-owned Brisbane business. With more than 35 years of experience in the pet industry, Justin and his team help families with puppy training, everyday manners and behaviour concerns.
