DogTV Product Review
Can Streaming Services Like DogTV Actually Entertain Pets?
DogTV is the first TV streaming service in the world that aims at entertaining pets and relaxing them while owners are not around. Initially designed for dogs, DogTV attempts to provide 24/7 pet specific programming that enriches and engages pets while also taking measures to reduce stress. While this is mostly targeted towards dogs, I decided to see what value it can give my two cats in terms of relaxation and entertainment. Here is what I found out after a week of running DogTV on my devices for my pets.
What is DogTV?
DogTV is a service that can be used with mobile devices like Fire TV, Roku and Apple TV. It is also available as a supplementary channel on some cable TV providers like Dish and Xfinity. It offers streaming services specifically tailored to the senses and instincts of dogs. The programs are categorized into three sections: Relaxation, Exposure and Stimulation. Relaxation videos calm pets down through soft sounds and soothing visuals. Exposure videos gently acclimatize pets to new sights and sounds while Stimulation videos are the opposite: they feature playful dogs and other high energy content that captures pets’ attention.
In addition to conditioning guides, DogTV provides veterinary and educational content for guardians of pets. This enables pet parents to glean valuable pointers on training and enrichment. Subscriptions are charged at $9.99 per month and $74.99 for an annual subscription, with a one-time payment of $199 for lifetime membership. A free trial lasting one week allows users test out the service before making a commitment.
Initial Reactions: An Unpredicted Success for Felines!
I set up an account with DogTV and integrated it with my LG smart TV aimed at fully equipping my workstation with all the gadgets. With the hope that the relaxing sounds bundled with visuals would pique the interest of my pets, I set the TV to play automatically while I worked remotely. Each of my cats surprised me in their own unique ways. One cat was completely entranced by the sounds and movements accompanying the visuals, while the other looks more relaxed as soothing music plays in the background.
Relaxation Masterpiece was outstanding, my cats seemed to disregard all furniture and sit cozily on the window, staring into nature which enabled me to witness firsthand (from behind) them relaxed and more stress-free than usual. But without a doubt, cats most anticipated the Stimulation content as that is when they get the opportunity to observe their beloved squirrels and fast-paced songbirds.
Why I Enjoyed Using DogTV
1. Tailored Sounds and Colors that Capture Pets’ Attention
Notably, the alteration of sound and color DogTV has edited content is unique in the entertainment world for pets. The high-pitched laughs of dogs and even some birds helped to hold my pets’ attention longer than any regular TV program. Moreover, DogTV goes a step further by coloring blue and yellow in a way that is easier for dogs (and some cats) to perceive. This not only made the visuals appealing but my other pets and cats were able to follow along the on-screen movements too.
2. The Content is Pet-Specific and Covers a Variety of Topics
I was glad to see the selection that DogTV offers. Their content combines types of programs in the form of a 24-7 broadcast. These from time to time change every few minutes, which meant that my pets never seemed to lose interest. For those pets who seem to favor particular types of content, DogTV has dozens of longer videos categorized by theme, so you can choose what fits their mood best. In the app, I was able to save my cats favorite “Relaxation” videos so that I could easily replay the content they adored most.
My Disappointments with DogTV
For Pet Owners, The Service May Be Too Expensive
Compared to other services, DogTV sits at $9.99 a month or $74.99 a year, and offers little compared to the competition. While I found content on DogTV to be enjoyable and effective, pet owners used to free content on YouTube may find the pricing extreme considering the plethora of pet videos accessible on other platforms. For me, DogTV was a good fit, but for others, this high subscription fee may prove to be a hurdle.
Final Thoughts: Is There Value In DogTV?
Would you consider signing up for DogTV? For those whose pets have an existing interest in the TV, DogTV offers the opportunity to keep your furry friend entertained during your absence. DogTV is an unparalleled resource designed to help ease your pet’s separation anxiety with thoughtful programming tailored to provide a mix of stimulation and relaxation. For pets that already enjoy looking at a screen, you can rest assured that the content being served is not just mindless pet video fluff—it’s tailored, scientifically curated material aimed at engagement and relaxation.
On the other hand, if your dog does not enjoy looking at screens, DogTV may struggle holding their attention. The subscription fee might also come across as expensive. To those in doubt, I recommend utilizing the free trial to gauge if their content resonates with your pet.
Overall Recommendation:
Helpful For: Animals that are calm when watching TV, particularly dogs or cats that respond to activities happening on screen or any sounds.
Most Notable Benefit: The Relaxation program, which uses gentle music and images, is best for pets that require a calming environment.
Tips While Subscribing: Check how your pet reacts during the seven-day free trial. If your pet seems to enjoy it, then go for the yearly subscription for additional savings.
And don’t forget—download the Pawrpose App to access more tips, track your pet’s health, and stay connected to a community that puts animal care first.
Available now on iOS & Android.
