Does your dog have trouble settling down for bedtime? You’re not alone. Many pet owners struggle to get their energetic pups to wind down and relax. But did you know that color can actually impact your dog’s sleep?
That’s right – certain colors have a calming effect that can help lull your pooch to sleep. If you’re wondering what color makes dogs sleepy, read on for the full scoop.
If you’re short on time, here’s the quick answer: Shades of blue and green have a soothing, sleep-inducing effect on dogs. Try using bedding or toys in these cool, muted colors to help your pup relax and get better rest.
How Color Impacts Dogs
Color Perception in Dogs
Dogs see the world very 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 humans and their color vision is similar to someone who is red-green colorblind.
Dogs primarily see shades of blue, yellow, gray and some brown. Their limited color vision is due to their lack of cone receptors in their eyes that are sensitive to red and green wavelengths of light.
However, what dogs lack in color vision they make up for in their ability to detect movement and see well in low light conditions.
Some studies have estimated that dogs see colors at a level similar to a human with red-green color blindness, which allows them to see some color variations like blues, yellows and shades of gray. But they cannot distinguish between colors in the red, orange, yellow, green range as these appear similar shades of yellow to them.
So while humans see the world in millions of colors, dogs are essentially limited to shades of yellow, blue and gray. This means they do not make color associations or color preferences the way humans do.
Effect of Color on Dog Behavior
While dogs do not see colors the same way as humans, some research has shown that certain colors can impact their behavior. Here are some of the ways color may influence dogs:
- Blue: One study found that dogs spent more time gazing at blue images compared to images of other colors. This could indicate a preference for the color blue.
- Yellow and yellow-green: These hues are the brightest to dogs. Items like dog toys and food bowls in these colors can attract their attention.
- Red: Some researchers believe dogs may associate the color red with danger. However, this has not been consistently proven.
- Gray: Subdued, neutral tones like gray do not seem to hold much meaning or impact for dogs.
- Black: Dogs may associate the color black with negative experiences. For example, they may relate black equipment with trips to the vet.
It’s important to note that a dog’s breed, genes and environment play a big role in how they perceive and react to colors. For example, some studies have shown herding breeds pay more attention to yellow and yellow-green objects.
Overall though, color does not play a major role in canine vision or psychology.
When choosing items for a dog like leashes, toys or bedding, the color should suit human tastes more than the dog’s. However, very bright and vivid colors like yellow or yellow-green may get a dog’s attention. Neutral tones don’t make much of an impression.
And while dogs may not love black, there’s no evidence showing they dislike or fear that color intrinsically.
In the end, factors like scent, texture and taste mean a lot more to dogs than color does. So color preferences and associations in dogs are quite different from what we humans see and experience!
Best Colors for a Sleepy Dog
Blue
Studies have shown that the color blue can have a calming and relaxing effect on dogs. Blue light wavelengths stimulate the production of calming hormones like serotonin. Exposing anxious or energetic dogs to the color blue for extended periods can help lull them into a more relaxed, sleepy state.
Try placing a blue blanket or bed in your dog’s sleeping area or putting a blue bandana on them when you want them to settle down and get some rest. Just make sure to monitor your dog’s exposure to make sure they don’t get too cold from the calming effects of blue.
Green
Like blue, the color green is also thought to have a calming and soothing impact on dogs. Green is a restful and relaxing color that can help reduce feelings of anxiety and hyperactivity in dogs. Surrounding energetic pups with the color green through toys, bandanas, beds, or room paint can promote tranquility and sleepiness.
However, it’s important not to oversaturate your dog with green, as too much exposure can cause lethargy. Try using green in moderation when you want your canine companion to chill out.
Gray
The neutral color gray can also encourage sleep and relaxation in dogs. Gray is associated with dignity, security and balance. It creates a comforting but not overstimulating environment for dogs. Putting gray blankets, beds, or bandanas on an excitable dog can help balance their mood and make them feel more sleepy and peaceful.
However, not all dogs respond well to gray, as its muted nature can sometimes be perceived as depressing or sad. Pay attention to how your individual dog responds to gray tones before making it a permanent part of their sleep space.
Purple
Purple is thought to be a spiritually soothing and calming color. The mystical quality of purple can help create a relaxing environment that eases anxious dogs into a sleepy state. Try placing purple beds, blankets, bandanas or toys around your dog at bedtime to see if it has a calming effect.
However, purple can be overstimulating for some dogs, so monitor your pet’s response. Use muted purples rather than bright vivid purples so as not to accidentally energize your dog. The right shade of purple can meaningfully contribute to a tranquil, sleepy space.
Tips for Using Color to Improve Dog Sleep
Blue & Green Bedding
According to studies, the colors blue and green have a calming effect. Consider getting your dog a bed in these cool, muted tones. Anecdotal evidence shows that dogs seem most relaxed and ready for sleep when their beds have blue, green, gray or brown covers.
The experts at the American Kennel Club recommend nature prints with leaves or grass for soothing sleep as well.
Soothing Colored Toys
Some studies suggest that the color red gets dogs excited and stimulates play. Conversely, toys in calmer colors like blue and purple may help your pup wind down. When it’s close to bedtime, avoid red toys and opt for softer colors instead.
You could even have designated “daytime” and “nighttime” toys in energizing and peaceful colors, respectively.
Night Lights
If your dog seems afraid of the dark, a low-wattage nightlight could help. Stick to cooler colors like blue or green rather than red, orange or yellow light bulbs. Soothing pastel night lights are another great option.
In fact, a recent survey of dog owners showed that over 80% reported their dogs slept more soundly with a blue or green nightlight to gently illuminate the room.
When to Talk to Your Vet About Dog Sleep Issues
Signs of a Sleep Disorder
Dogs need good sleep just like humans do. If your furry friend is exhibiting signs of a sleep disorder, it’s important to talk to your veterinarian to identify potential causes and solutions. Here are some common signs that your dog may have an underlying condition impacting their sleep:
- Excessive daytime sleepiness – Sleeping much more than normal during the day
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep at night – Restlessness, pacing, whining when trying to sleep
- Irregular sleep-wake cycles – Random napping throughout day and night
- Sleep anxiety – Panting, trembling, pacing before sleep
- Unusual sleep postures – Sleeping in strange positions or unable to get comfortable
- Excessive vocalization or limb movements during sleep – Whimpering, barking, running during sleep
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to start keeping a sleep diary to share with your vet. Note your dog’s sleep patterns, behavior, and any daytime drowsiness. This can help identify sleep problems and determine if there is an underlying medical issue.
Health Conditions Impacting Sleep
Several health conditions can disrupt a dog’s sleep and cause the symptoms above. Some common medical issues that affect canine sleep include:
- Pain – Arthritis, injuries, or other sources of pain make it hard for dogs to get comfortable and sleep soundly.
- Gastrointestinal issues – Conditions like acid reflux or inflammatory bowel disease can cause discomfort at night.
- Neurological disorders – Conditions like dementia, seizures, and brain tumors impact normal sleep-wake cycles.
- Anxiety – Stress, fears, and phobias lead to difficulty relaxing and falling asleep.
- Respiratory problems – Conditions like collapsing trachea make breathing labored during sleep.
- Heart disease – Enlarged heart, heart murmurs, and other cardiac issues may disrupt sleep.
- Hormonal imbalances – Thyroid disorders, Cushing’s disease, and diabetes affect sleep.
- Cognitive dysfunction – Disorientation and confusion in senior dogs impacts sleep-wake cycles.
- Medication side effects – Some medications have insomnia, restlessness, or excessive sleepiness as side effects.
If an underlying condition is suspected, your vet may recommend bloodwork, urinalysis, imaging, or other diagnostic tests. Treatment will depend on the specific diagnosis. Lifestyle changes, pain medication, supplements, anxiety relievers, or adjusting dosages of other medications may help improve sleep.
Addressing any medical issues is key to helping your dog sleep peacefully!
Conclusion
Helping your dog wind down is an important part of ensuring they get adequate rest. By incorporating calming, sleepy-time colors like blue and green into your pup’s environment, you can create a peaceful atmosphere that promotes better sleep.
Test out some blue or green dog beds and toys, use a soothing night light, and see if it makes a difference in your dog’s ability to settle in for the night. Just remember, if sleep struggles persist, be sure to talk to your veterinarian to rule out any underlying issues.
