Has your puppy ever barked or whined incessantly at a TV screen? Have you noticed your puppy intently watching the football game on TV? If your puppy has displayed either of these behaviors, you may be wondering whether it’s a good idea to let them watch TV.

As long as your pup is getting regular exercise, there’s nothing harmful with letting your furry friend watch the moving images on the screen. Watching TV can even have several benefits for your fur-baby, especially if you leave it on while you’re away. Let’s take a look at how watching TV can help your pup!

It promotes socialization in pups

Puppies are a curious bunch! They’re always curious about the outside world, and express it in energetic behavior. By watching TV, puppies grow more accustomed to the sounds and looks of our world. TV often has unique sounds and sights that can help your puppy’s developing brain process and adapt to their new surroundings.

Of course, dogs will not necessarily understand what’s going on—to them, our favorite Netflix binges are just random shapes, colors, and sounds combined together in a meaningless jumble. But it will come in handy on walks around the neighborhood or any adventures in our modern world.

It helps puppies calm down

Many puppies don’t deal with separation anxiety very well. While there are a number of methods you can use to help calm your puppy down, leaving the TV on while you’re away can help! Certain stations provide certain sounds or sights that can act as a calming remedy for your fur-baby. Make sure you try out the channel and your puppy’s reactions to it before you leave the house. If your pup remains calm and appears to be watching, it can help them forget that their favorite human is gone.

It provides a healthy stimulus

Depending on the channel or station, TV can give puppies a healthy stimulus to their senses. In some cases, your puppy can watch other dogs interact and play with each other, which helps keep their attention span. There are even channels made specifically for your puppy’s attention. Nature shows or shows involving animals can also provide this stimulus.

Now, TV should not replace your furry friends daily routine. Your puppy should be getting adequate exercise and activity for their health and growth. Use the TV for your pup’s own good when you’re not home or trying to socialize them.

If you notice your puppy acting unusual or sleepy, check out our other blog, 4 Signs You Might Be Stressing Out Your Puppy, for more information.