Determining what color is the most relaxing for dogs is important for pet owners who want to create a calm environment for their furry friends. The color of a dog’s surroundings can have a significant impact on their mood and behavior. Some colors are known to have a soothing, calming effect on dogs, while others may cause overstimulation and stress.
Do dogs see color?
Before exploring what colors relax dogs, it’s important to understand what colors dogs can see. For many years it was believed dogs saw only in black and white. However, more recent studies suggest dogs have two color receptors, allowing them to see some color, but not the full spectrum humans see.
Dogs can see blue and yellow, but reds and greens may appear more gray. So while dogs can see some color, their color vision is much more limited compared to humans.
How do colors impact dog behavior?
Although dogs have limited color vision, research indicates that certain colors can have a calming or stimulating effect on dog behavior and mood. Here’s an overview of how different colors may impact dogs:
- Blue – Often described as a calming, relaxing color for dogs. Blue is thought to release dopamine, which helps ease anxiety.
- Yellow/Gold – Uplifting colors that create warm, positive feelings. However, too bright or neon shades may be overstimulating.
- Green – A mild calming color, associated with nature and reducing anxiety or frustration.
- Red – May create feelings of stimulation or excitement. Brighter reds should be avoided.
- Purple – Reported to have a soothing, calming effect similar to blue hues.
- Orange – Bright oranges can feel energizing and stimulating for dogs.
- Gray – Neutral color that doesn’t evoke strong reactions. Can be soothing in some shades.
It’s important to note that a dog’s breed, age, personality and past experiences may all influence their reactions to different colors. Observing how your individual dog responds to colors in their environment is key.
Best colors for relaxing anxious or stressed dogs
If you have a high-strung or anxious dog, choosing relaxing colors for their crates, beds, bandanas, toys and more can help create a soothing environment. Here are some of the best color choices to try for stressed dogs:
- Blue – Shades like light blue or sky blue are calming for many dogs. Navy blue can also have a grounding, peaceful effect.
- Green – Go for soft, muted greens like sage. Brighter greens may be too stimulating.
- Purple – Lavender and soft violet shades work well for relaxation. Avoid brighter purples.
- Pink – Certain lighter pinks can have a soothing, comforting effect on dogs.
- Gray – Stick to lighter grays rather than dark charcoal shades.
Best colors for keeping dogs calm indoors
Using relaxing colors when decorating rooms your dog spends time in can help keep them calm and settled indoors. Recommended choices include:
- Blue – Consider a sky blue accent wall or pale blue furnishings. You can also use blue beds/crate pads.
- Green – Earthy sage green is suitable for walls or accessories. It has natural relaxation benefits.
- Cream – Soft cream or beige colors work well for large spaces like living rooms.
- Gray – Go for a warm gray shade. It’s neutral but not too dull or stark.
In general, lighter wall colors tend to be more relaxing for dogs than bright whites or dark paint colors. You’ll also want to avoid bold reds or oranges in home decor when possible.
Best colors for high-energy dogs
For dogs with lots of pep and energy, colors that are overly calming or sedating may not be the best option. You’ll still want to avoid bright, stimulating colors, but some bolder accent shades can work. Some color choices to perk up high-energy dogs include:
- Yellow – Pick a muted golden shade rather than bright neon yellow for stimulation.
- Green – Go for a leafy hunter green, avoiding brighter greens.
- Orange – Try a burnt orange accent wall or accessory behind neutral furnishings.
- Turquoise – A soft ocean blue-green has an uplifting effect.
Pink – Coral pink can provide energizing feelings without being overstimulating.
You’ll still want to use these colors in moderation since dogs see brighter colors better. Limit high-energy colors to accent pieces or backgrounds behind neutral tones.
Colors to avoid for easily stressed dogs
On the opposite end of the spectrum, dogs who startle easily or are sensitive to stimulation should avoid bright, bold colors. Here are some examples of colors that tend to be overstimulating or stressful for noise-sensitive dogs:
- Red – Bright reds can raise heart rates and create feelings of frustration.
- Orange – Vibrant oranges are also very stimulating and may cause anxiety.
- Yellow – Bright, neon yellows should be avoided in favor of muted gold tones.
- White – Stark whites can seem too clinical and harsh for sensitive dogs.
- Black – Solid black furnishings or accessories may look ominous and cause fear.
The best strategy is to stick with soft, muted cool colors like pale blue, lavender, sage green and pale pink when decorating areas fragile dogs spend time in. Using natural textures and lighting is also beneficial.
How to use color when training dogs
Along with creating a relaxing home environment, color can also be used strategically in dog training. Associate certain colors with rewards to motivate your dog and reinforce good behaviors.
For example, use a green bandana during training exercises to indicate treats will be given. You can also put green toys or bowls out during playtime. Over time, your dog will connect the color green with something positive.
Specific colors can also help dogs differentiate between their own toys or bowls vs. those belonging to other household pets. Using color-coding minimizes confusion and prevents resource guarding issues.
Conclusion
While dogs don’t see color exactly the same way we do, certain colors do seem to have an impact on their mood and behavior. Creating a relaxing space using colors like sky blue, lavender and soft green can help high-anxiety dogs feel calm. More confident pups benefit from uplifting colors like coral pink or ocean blue in moderation. Neutral backgrounds work best for any color accents. Observing your own dog’s reactions to colors will help determine the best choices for your companion.