Dogs see color differently than humans do. While humans have three color receptors (red, green and blue), dogs only have two (yellow and blue). This means dogs see fewer colors than we do. However, research shows that dogs can still perceive some colors, including shades of yellow, blue and gray.
When choosing calming colors for dogs, it’s important to consider a dog’s limited color vision. Sticking to softer, lighter shades that dogs can see clearly will likely have the most soothing effect. Some evidence also suggests dogs may be able to detect some variations of red, orange and green, though these colors appear more muted.
Why Use Calming Colors for Dogs?
Using calming colors is one way to help create a relaxing environment for dogs. This can be helpful in a number of situations:
– Reducing stress and anxiety. Soothing colors may help some dogs feel less anxious during loud noises like thunderstorms or fireworks. Calming colors are also useful in places that may cause unease, like the vet’s office or groomer.
– Promoting relaxation at home. Dogs benefit from having a designated rest and retreat area at home. Using calming colors in sleeping areas can help dogs relax and unwind.
– Separation anxiety. Dogs with separation anxiety may feel calmer in spaces decorated in soothing colors. This can make departures and alone time less stressful.
– Travel. Visual stimulation from the car/plane windows may cause anxiety in some dogs. Calming colors in crates, carriers and garments can be reassuring.
In addition to environmental color choices, calming garments and accessories in muted shades may also help anxious or stressed dogs.
Best Calming Colors for Dogs
Let’s look at some top color choices to help dogs feel relaxed and comfortable:
Gray
Since dogs see shades of gray well, this is one of the best colors for creating a soothing space. Go for lighter charcoals or slate grays rather than dark hues. Gray has a neutral, natural quality to help dogs remain calm and content.
Yellow
Along with blue, yellow is one of the two primary colors dogs see well. Soft, pale yellows are ideal for dogs. Pastel yellow has a gentle, cheerful vibe. Brighter yellows may be overstimulating, so stick to muted goldenrod, lemon or buttery shades.
Blue
Dogs have more blue light receptors, so they can differentiate among various shades of blue. Light powdery blues and airy sky blues make excellent calming colors for dogs. Avoid darker navy shades.
Green
Green looks grayish to dogs. However, some evidence shows dogs may be able to detect some differences among green shades. Go for muted sage, olive or mossy greens. Dark forest greens may appear too bold and stimulating.
Lavender
The soft purple tone of lavender elicits a relaxed, sleepy feeling. Dogs likely see lavender as a light silvery gray. The barely-there quality makes lavender ideal for settling dogs down.
Pink
While dogs can’t see pink as vividly as humans, they likely perceive it as a faded gray or beige. Because of this, soft powder pinks and rosy pinks make soothing choices for dogs. Avoid bright hot pinks.
Colors to Avoid
Some colors may be too overstimulating and intense for dogs. Here are some hues that are less optimal for creating relaxing spaces:
– Black – Stark and vivid, black lacks the mellowing effect of lighter tones.
– White – Crisp white can seem sterile and harsh. Diffused with other pale colors, it can work.
– Red – A bold, strong color dogs can’t see well. Best avoided.
– Orange – Bright and bold. Dogs likely see it as a muted brown. Too stimulating.
– Brown – Associated with hardwood and dirty spaces. Appears dark and flat to dogs.
– Purple – Without blue tones, dogs just see it as a dark, dull color.
Stick with lighter shades of cool, muted colors like gray, blue, green and yellow when creating relaxing spaces for dogs. Avoid loud, warm colors and intense contrasts.
Using Calming Colors in the Home
There are many ways to successfully incorporate soothing hues to help dogs feel at ease at home:
Dog Beds
Select dog beds in soft powder blue, buttery yellow, or pale lavender. Neutral gray works well too. Location also matters – place beds in quiet corners away from high-traffic areas.
Crate Covers
Drape lightweight cotton crate covers in calming colors over crates. This creates a den-like enclosure and screens out stimulation.
Bedding
Dress dog beds with bedding and small blankets in relaxing colors like heathered gray or textured blue. Avoid loud patterns and high contrast.
Walls/Paint
Paint a wall or corner a restful shade of green, lavender or blue. This designated area becomes a serene doggy retreat. You can also use neutral toned paints throughout the home.
Toys
Incorporate toys in muted calming colors to support relaxation during playtime. Plush gray or blue toys are perfect.
Accessories
Use dog bowls, leashes, collars and other accessories in soothing hues. Sky blue leashes, pale yellow bowls and slate gray mats send calming signals.
Lighting
Use dimmable bulbs to control brightness. Keep lighting low and diffuse in dog rest areas. Avoid harsh overhead lighting.
Textiles
Incorporate lamp shades, pillows, rugs and other textiles in relaxing colors like soft grays, blues and greens. Keep patterns subtle and understated.
Calming Colors for Dog Apparel and Accessories
In addition to decor, calming colors can also be used strategically in dog garments and accessories:
Bandanas/Scarves
Have your dog wear a muted colored bandana or scarf when in stressful situations like vet visits. Light blue or green are good choices.
Collar Covers
Slip lightweight collar covers in lavender, pink or blue over your dog’s collar to add a soothing pop of color.
Sweaters/Jackets
Comfort your dog with outerwear in therapeutic colors like heathered gray sweaters or muted blue jackets.
Anxiety Wraps
These garments swaddle dogs in gentle pressure. Anxiety wraps come in various calming colors and patterns.
Leashes/Collars
Accessories like sky blue leashes or slate gray collars support relaxation on walks.
Carrier Covers
Cover dog carriers with a blanket in a calming color or lightly drape a pastel scarf over the top.
Using Color Therapy for Dogs
Color therapy uses the psychological effects of color to alter mood and behavior. Here are some examples of using color strategically to benefit dogs:
Gray
– Place a gray crate pad inside a dog’s crate for naps and quiet time. The neutral color helps dogs settle down.
Yellow
– Drape a light yellow blanket over a dog’s car crate to provide reassuring color during travel anxiety.
Blue
– Paint a mural with sky blue clouds on the wall of a dog daycare rest area to promote relaxation.
Green
– Use a mossy green leash during walks to keep excitable dogs calm and focused.
Lavender
– Spritz lavender aromatherapy spray around a dog’s bedding to amplify the soothing ambiance.
Scientific Research on Color and Dogs
While more research is still needed, some studies provide early scientific insights on how dogs respond to color:
– A 2016 study found that dogs spent more time in spaces illuminated with yellow and blue. The researchers concluded that these colors may be more relaxing or comforting to dogs.
– Research in 2007 showed that dogs relaxed more in darker environments. The study suggests dogs may feel less anxious with muted, subtle colors.
– Scientists in 2018 determined that a dog’s heart rate was lowest when shown a light blue screen. This indicates blue may elicit a calming response in dogs.
– Studies demonstrate that the hormone oxytocin increases dog-owner bonding. Interestingly, exposing dogs to pink increases oxytocin levels, signifying pink light may have soothing effects.
Though preliminary, these findings reveal preferences and reactions that can inform choices of calming colors. More controlled studies are needed for definitive conclusions.
Conclusion
Colors can impact a dog’s mood and emotions. By sticking to a muted, neutral color palette with shades of gray, blue, yellow, green and lavender, you can create peaceful spaces to help dogs feel more calm and relaxed. Avoid loud, stimulating colors and aim for soft, subtle hues that make dogs feel safe and at ease. With a few simple tweaks, you can use color strategically to benefit your anxious or stressed dog.
