Why Read To Your Dog?

Reading to your dog is a unique way to bond, but to make the most out of this experience, it helps to understand how dogs perceive the world visually. Dogs’ colour vision is quite different from ours, and recognizing these differences allows you to tailor your interactions, including reading time, so your furry friend stays engaged and comfortable.

Let's dive into the science of dog vision and how to choose illustrated books that align with their visual strengths, offering a richer and more enjoyable reading experience for both you and your fur baby.

How Dogs See the World: The Science of Dog Vision

Dogs see colours differently than humans due to their dichromatic vision. Unlike humans, who have three types of cone cells (trichromatic vision) and can perceive the full range of the rainbow, dogs have only two types of cone cells. This means their ability to detect colours is limited to blues, yellows, and shades of gray, while they struggle to differentiate between reds and greens​

For example:

• Red objects appear yellow or brown.

• Green items are often perceived as grayish.

• Blue and yellow objects appear vibrant and distinguishable.

This is similar to how a person with red-green colour blindness would experience the world. While a red toy might look dull to your dog, a blue toy stands out much more clearly.

Dichromatic Dog Vision Vs Trichromatic Human Vision

How This Affects Your Dog’s Interaction with Illustrated Books

When you’re reading illustrated books to your dog, it’s important to choose colours that align with their vision to make the experience more engaging. Many children’s books use bold primary colours like red or green, which may not stand out for your dog. Instead, books with blue and yellow illustrations, will catch your dog’s attention more easily.

For instance, if the story includes a blue character or a yellow object, your dog may be more likely to focus on that part of the page, especially if you point it out while reading. Books that use simple artwork with clear shapes are ideal, as dogs respond well to bold outlines and minimal visual clutter.

Selecting Dog-Friendly Books: What to Look For

Here are some tips for choosing the best illustrated books to read to your dog:

Lottie Reading "The Snack Bar"

1. Stick to Blue and Yellow Themes: Look for books with artwork featuring blue skies, yellow animals, or blue toys.

2. Opt for Simple, High-Contrast Images: Dogs process simpler images better, so avoid overly complex illustrations. Bold lines and plain backgrounds help your dog focus on the images.

A great example of such books is “The Snack Bar” by Tilly Tailor, where a dog is the central character, and the playful narrative is complemented by high-contrast imagery. The collection of books at Barkside Stories are childlike with the themes and visuals designed to appeal to your dog.

Why Reading to Your Dog Matters

You might wonder if dogs can’t understand the story, why read to them? Surprisingly, the benefits go far beyond the words on the page.

a) Reduces Anxiety and Promotes Calmness

The simple act of reading aloud has a calming effect on dogs. Many animal shelters use volunteer reading programs where people read to rescue dogs, helping them acclimate to human voices and reduce stress levels. Your voice creates a soothing rhythm, reinforcing positive associations with being still and relaxed.

b) Strengthens the Bond Between You and Your Dog

Reading time offers an opportunity to bond through shared activities. Your dog may not understand the plot, but they respond to your tone, gestures, and the time spent together. This activity is especially beneficial for puppies learning to trust or for older dogs who may need more quiet companionship.

c) Provides Mental Stimulation

Dogs need mental enrichment just as much as physical exercise. Reading offers a low-energy way to engage their senses. The sound of your voice, combined with the visual stimulation of illustrations, keeps their mind active. Mental stimulation is especially helpful for older dogs or those with limited mobility.

Enhancing Storytime with Visual and Sensory Cues

To make your reading sessions more engaging, try incorporating visual cues and other sensory elements:

• Point out images on the page, especially those in blue or yellow, while describing what you see. For example, say, “Look at this blue ball!” and point to the picture.

• Use toys or props that match elements in the story. If the book shows a blue toy, bring out a similar toy for your dog to explore.

• Reinforce calm behaviour by offering treats when your dog stays relaxed during reading time.

  
  

Creating the Perfect Reading Environment

Dogs are sensitive to their environment, so setting up the right atmosphere for storytime is key. Here are a few tips:

• Use Soft, Natural Lighting: Dogs see well in low-light conditions, thanks to the high concentration of rod cells in their eyes. Keep the lighting soft and comfortable.

• Choose a Quiet Space: Minimize distractions so your dog can focus on your voice and the illustrations.

• Establish a Routine: Regular reading sessions create consistency, which helps dogs feel safe and relaxed. Over time, your dog may even look forward to storytime.

The Limitations of Dog Vision: What They Can't See

While dogs excel in detecting motion and seeing in low light, their limited colour vision has a few drawbacks. Beyond struggling to distinguish between red and green, dogs also have reduced visual acuity. On average, dogs have 20/75 vision, meaning they can only see clearly from 20 feet what humans can see from 75 feet away​. This is why simple and bold images work better for dogs than intricate artwork.

Reading in a Comfortable Quiet Space

Making Storytime Special for Your Dog

Understanding how your dog sees the world allows you to enhance your time together. By selecting illustrated books with blue and yellow themes, creating a cozy environment, and incorporating sensory cues, you transform reading into a meaningful shared activity.

Although dogs won’t follow the plot, they respond to your tone, presence, and the comfort of the moment. This makes story time not just beneficial for them but also a wonderful way for you to unwind and bond with your fur baby. So, pick a book from our ever growing range at Barkside Stories, cuddle up, and enjoy the magic of storytelling with your furry friend!