My younger dog Rosie is a big television watcher. Here is Rosie watching a State of the Union address. Besides politics, Rosie enjoys watching any show with animal and nature sounds.
But do dogs understand what they’re seeing when they watch TV? According to National Geographic, you bet. “Domestic dogs can perceive images on television similarly to the way we do,” says a 2015 article, so it’s no wonder that many of us catch our dogs enjoying the ‘tube.
Looking for some canine-friendly programming? To get you started, here is a list of some of Rosie’s favorite shows, as well as a few that I think would make good watching for any pup.
1. Nature – PBS
Nature is a great PBS series if you’re a…wait for it…nature lover. Your dogs will also enjoy the sights and sounds of the animals featured on the show. The photography is phenomenal and you’ll get the chance to learn about a different animal each week. You can catch it on TV and online.
2. Planet Earth
If you’re unfamiliar with the hit mini-series Planet Earth, you must not be on planet Earth. Very similar to Nature, Planet Earth takes you on a journey across the globe and introduces you to a variety of habitats and animals. Watch your dog’s ears perk up to the sounds of the rainforest and check out their reaction to a hunting snow leopard. Watch it on Netflix.
3. Dr. Dolittle (1998)
This is one of those movies that you’ll probably want to watch if you have children. There are plenty of animals that star in this movie, so it should be a favorite with many canines!
4. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey
Homeward Bound is a touching story about two dogs and one cat who journey an incredible distance to find their owners. Starring Michael J. Fox, Sally Field, and Don Alder.
5. The Adventures of Milo and Otis
This was one of my very favorite movies as a child. Milo and Otis are a loveable canine/feline pair who find themselves separated from one another. Each has to embark on a hazardous trek. This is another great movie for kiddos, but is a fun watch for anyone who loves animals.
6. Lassie
Who doesn’t love Lassie, the hero dog? This series is a fun blast from the past.
7. Air Bud
The Air Bud movie series isn’t going to win any awards, but they are great for dog owners with children. Watch your dog and child embark in different sport-themed adventures with Air Bud – he plays basketball, volleyball, soccer and football!