TV for dogs: what to play, and how to set it up

A Head Tilt guide

Dogs see the world in blues and yellows, notice movement more than detail, and react to sounds like squeaks and rustles. A TV made for dogs is built around that. Here is what to look for, and how to try it with your dog.

Colors dogs can see

Dogs have two kinds of color cones instead of three, so blues and yellows stay bright while reds and greens look muddy brown to them. Every Head Tilt scene sticks to blue, yellow and white, with bold outlines, so the action stands out on any screen.

Motion that holds attention

Dogs track movement: a ball bouncing, a squirrel dashing along a fence, fish darting under the water. Each clip mixes busy moments with pauses, and members can slow the motion down or make characters bigger for small screens.

Sounds without the surprise

Squeaks, boings, splashes and soft ocean sound, with no talking and no doorbells. A Startle-free setting fades every sound in gently for nervous or older dogs.

Play time and nap time

Playful clips (Seal Cove, Rock Show, Squirrel Dash) are for a dog who is wide awake. Calm clips (Sleepy Seal, Moon Drift, Northern Lights) drift slowly over quiet ocean sound. The While You're Out channel starts playful and winds down over two hours.

Setting it up

• Put the screen at your dog's eye level.
• Keep the volume medium. Squeaks carry.
• On a tablet, use full screen and the paw-proof lock, so paws can't pause it.
• Watch how your dog reacts the first few times, and stop if they seem stressed or overexcited.

TV is entertainment and enrichment, not a replacement for walks, play or company, and not a treatment for anxiety.

Try it free

Watch the free clips on Head Tilt. No sign-up needed. Every plan has a 7-day free trial if your dog wants more.