Dogs are known for having much keener senses than their owners, but just how much better than us are they at hearing? It’s not only that dogs can hear “better” than humans. They can hear a wider range of frequencies as well as detecting quieter sounds due to their predator past. So what exactly do dogs hear?
Structured for Greatness
Dogs’ ears are anatomically different from humans and those differences aid their hearing superpower. Human ears are placed flat against the head, meaning that we hear best when sound is coming from our sides. The outer ear, also called the pinna, helps direct sound to our ears so we can hear better. Dogs on the other hand have ears placed on top of their head. This allows them to hear sounds from in front of them more acutely. Dogs with big ears that stand up straight hear the best because those large pinnas do the same thing as when you cup your hand around your ear to hear more clearly. Not only that, but they have approximately eighteen muscles to control the pinna alone. This allows them to swivel their ears around to triangulate where a sound is coming from and hear it better. Unlike humans, dogs can listen independently with each ear. So while they may hear one sound with their left ear, they can hear something totally different with their right. They can also “shut off” their inner ear to filter out noises that are distracting and focus on what they want to hear.
However, all dogs are not equipped with the best quality ears. Floppy ears, while extra adorable, can make it harder for dogs to hear as they “block” the ear canal from getting the most sound waves. Another issue some dogs face is extra-hairy ear canals. Both of these issues can also lead to an increased risk of ear infections which, if left untreated, can cause hearing loss.
What Can Dogs Hear That We Can’t?
Dogs can hear about four times as well as humans, but what does that actually mean? Dogs can hear a wider range of frequencies, measured in hertz (Hz). Newborn humans can hear up to 20,000 Hz while dogs can hear up to 35,000 Hz. This translates to them being able to hear much higher pitches of sound than humans. Things like dog whistles or squeaker toys that are silent to humans emit sounds that are too high for us to hear but dogs can hear them quite easily. This also means that they can sometimes hear sounds emitted by electronics that we can’t, and might cause them agitation or discomfort. Dogs also hear sounds at lower decibels than humans, meaning they can hear softer sounds than use. This also means that loud sounds are “louder” to dogs. This is a common explanation for why dogs are often scared or agitated during thunderstorms or fireworks.
Seniors Dogs Hearing Loss
Dogs naturally experience hearing loss due to age like humans. f you’re unsure if your dog can hear, try snapping your fingers behind their head and see if they react. This is a very common issue in old dogs and should not have a huge impact on your pup’s quality of life.
How well dogs hear may also affect their level of obedience. A dog with sharp hearing is more likely to respond to a call from far off, and mat also have the ability to be trained as an excellent guard dog. If you are looking to take your dog’s obedience to the next level, call Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training. We are here to help with professional training and obedience classes for Sarasota and Bradenton dogs.
