Blue is Best: The Calming Power of Colour for Your Dog

Did you know that colours can have a profound impact on your dog’s mood and behaviour? Unlike humans, dogs have dichromatic vision, meaning they see the world in shades of blue, yellow, and grey. This unique way of perceiving colour makes certain hues more soothing and beneficial for our canine companions.

Understanding how dogs perceive colour isn’t just a fun fact—it’s a practical tool for creating a more comfortable, stress-free environment for your furry friend. At Jordan Dog Training, we believe in using every insight to improve the well-being of your dogs. Let’s dive into why blue is one of the best colours for your dog and how you can use it to create a calming environment.

The Science Behind Dogs and Colour Perception

Dogs’ eyes contain two types of colour-detecting cells (cones), which limit their ability to see the full spectrum of colours. This means that while humans can enjoy a full rainbow of colours, dogs primarily see blues, yellows, and greys. Reds and greens often appear as muted or indistinguishable shades of grey.

By understanding this, we can better tailor our dogs’ environments to meet their needs, using colours that are visible and soothing to them.

Why Blue is Best

Research has shown that certain colours can influence dogs’ emotional states. Soft, muted shades of blue, such as sky or light blue, have been found to promote relaxation and lower stress levels in dogs. In one study, dogs’ heart rates were lowest when exposed to blue, indicating a calming response. Blue’s tranquil qualities make it an excellent choice for:

  • Bedding: Choose a blue dog bed or blanket to create a soothing space, especially during stressful times like storms or fireworks.
  • Toys: Blue toys are easy for your dog to see and may encourage gentle, focused play.
  • Relaxation Areas: Incorporate blue accents in your dog’s designated rest zones to help them unwind.

Other Soothing Colours

While blue stands out as the most calming colour, other hues can also help your dog relax. Soft greens and lavenders have similarly soothing effects and can complement blue tones in your dog’s environment. These colours are great choices for grooming spaces or recovery areas for dogs with health issues.

On the flip side, avoid bright and bold colours like red, orange, and vivid yellows in rest areas, as they can be overstimulating and may hinder relaxation.

How to Use Colour to Benefit Your Dog

Here are some practical ways to incorporate calming colours into your dog’s daily life:

  1. Create a Blue Chill Zone: Designate a quiet space for your dog with a blue bed, blanket, or cushion. This can be their go-to spot for unwinding after playtime or a long walk.
  2. Choose Calming Accessories: When picking collars, harnesses, or clothing for your dog, consider soft blue tones for a soothing effect during outings.
  3. Consider Colour in Training Spaces: If you’re working on training, adding blue accents to the area can help keep your dog’s stress levels low and improve focus.
  4. Incorporate Blue Lighting: Soft blue lighting in your dog’s crate or sleeping area can help create a calming atmosphere.
  5. Budget-Friendly Options: Use inexpensive blue items like cushions or throws to add calming touches to your dog’s environment without breaking the bank.

Fun Fact: Colours for Play vs. Rest

Bright colours like red and orange may not be ideal for calming your dog, but they can be great for playtime. These colours can increase excitement and energy, making them perfect for interactive toys and games. Save the bold hues for when your dog is active, and stick to calming shades of blue for rest and relaxation.

Let’s Hear Your Thoughts!

Have you noticed how colours affect your dog’s behaviour? Does your dog have a favourite blue blanket, toy, or bed? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below. Don’t forget to post photos of your furry friends enjoying their calming blue spaces and tag us on social media with #CalmWithJordanDogs.

At Jordan Dog Training, we’re always excited to learn how you’re enhancing your dog’s well-being!

Conclusion

Incorporating calming colours like blue into your dog’s environment is a simple yet effective way to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. Whether through bedding, toys, or accessories, small changes can make a big difference in your dog’s daily life. Remember, a calm dog is a happy dog!


At Jordan Dog Training, we’re passionate about helping dogs and their owners live their best lives together. If you’re looking for personalised advice or training programs, explore our website or reach out to our team. Together, we can create a stress-free, joyful environment for your furry friend!

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Justin Jordan Trainer

Justin Jordan

Master Trainer

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Phone (07) 3264 8180      Mobile: 0422 600 774       Email: justin@jordandogtraining.com.au