Dogs can perceive color, but not as vividly as humans. Their color vision is similar to red-green color blindness in humans. Dogs are essentially dichromats, meaning they can see blue and yellow best. Green, red, and orange may appear more muted or gray. This means dogs can see blue and yellow toys or objects more vividly.
When it comes to calming dogs, experts recommend using muted, pastel versions of cool colors like blue, green, and purple. Bright, warm colors like red, orange, and yellow may be overstimulating. Gentle blues, greens, and lavenders create a soothing environment.
How Dogs See Color
Dogs do see colors, but their color vision is limited compared to humans. Humans are trichromats, meaning we have three types of color receptor cones in our eyes that allow us to see the full spectrum of color. Dogs only have two types of color cones, so they are dichromats. Essentially this gives dogs a form of red-green color blindness.
Dogs see the colors blue and yellow the best. Scientists believe the reason for this is because dogs evolved as carnivores who had to spot prey (yellow grasses) against blue skies. Other colors like red, orange, and green may appear more dull or gray to a dog. Pupils also play a role. The structure of the dog eye means they see less saturated, lighter colors than humans.
So when choosing toys or colors dogs respond to, go for blues and yellows. Balls or toys in these shades will stand out best to your pet. On the other hand, red or green toys may be less visible or less exciting to a dog based on their limited color perception.
Best Calming Colors for Dogs
Since dogs have a more muted color palette, the best colors to visually calm them are softer shades. Here are the most relaxing colors for dogs:
| Color | Shade |
|---|---|
| Blue | Light blue, sky blue, ice blue |
| Green | Seafoam, sage, light olive |
| Purple | Lavender, lilac, orchid |
The key is choosing pale, muted versions of cool colors like blue, green and purple. Bright warm colors like yellow, orange and red can be overstimulating for dogs. Deep jewel tones may also be too energizing.
Aim for a blue just a shade darker than baby blue. Pick a green with just a dash of gray – think sage or seafoam. Lavender and soft lilac purples are perfect soothing shades.
Pet beds or blankets in these colors will help Fido relax. Try painting a wall or accent wall in a restful pale blue or green. Use throw pillows or area rugs in muted purple or blue shades. The result will be a space both you and your dog find calming.
Avoid Bright Warm Colors
On the flip side, avoid bright warm colors when trying to create a relaxing space for your dog. Red, orange, and yellow in vibrant shades can be overstimulating. Here are some colors that may stress dogs out:
– Fire engine red
– Neon orange
– Sunshine yellow
– Hot pink
Your dog sees yellows and reds differently – they will likely appear more washed out. But the sheer vibrancy of hot pink or orange can still be visually stressful. Stick with cooler, more muted shades instead.
Also avoid loud patterns like neon polka dots that may be visually unsettling. Solid colors or subtle prints are best. Keeping the color scheme tranquil will help your dog unwind.
Use Color for Training
You can also use color to your advantage when training dogs. Choose brightly colored toys and treats as rewards during training sessions. Opt for neon green or orange rubber toys that will stand out as you teach commands or tricks. Vivid colors grab a dog’s attention as a reinforcement tool.
Just be sure to limit brightly colored objects to training times only. Put the orange rubber bone away afterward so it doesn’t overstimulate your dog in quiet times. Use high contrast, vivid colors strategically as you shape behaviors for the best results.
Observe Your Dog’s Preferences
Keep in mind that color preferences can vary from dog to dog. Observe your own pet to learn what shades they respond to. Does your dog consistently seek out their blue toy or bed? Then they likely find blue hues soothing.
If your pooch seems unsettled in a room you just painted fire engine red, take note. You may need to repaint in a more subtle tone. Pay attention to how your dog reacts to different color cues. Their unique preferences will give you insight into creating a calmer home.
Use Color for Safety
Another way to use color with dogs is increasing safety. Brightly colored collars, leashes and vests help dogs stay visible. Even though dogs don’t see neon green or orange as vividly as humans, those shades will still stand out from their surroundings.
Choose collars and leashes in bright contrasting hues compared to your dog’s fur. This helps you keep track of them on walks and prevents accidents or escapes. Use reflective materials as well so dogs stay easy to see at night. Color can help keep your four-legged friend secure.
Conclusion
While dogs do perceive color, their vision is limited compared to human sight. Cool muted shades of blue, green and purple are the most relaxing colors for dogs. Avoid vivid warm hues like red, orange and yellow in energetic spaces. Observe your own pet’s reactions to color as you create a soothing environment. Strategically using high contrast colors can also help with training and safety. Keeping these tips in mind will allow you to surround your dog with calming colors.