Brazilian DJ tests playlists that affect dogs’ mood

During her rehearsals, Brazilian DJ Scheilla Santos noticed music tempo changed dogs’ behavior and decided to investigate.The Bahian artist, known as SHE.FREQ and currently based in London, began a personal experiment exploring how rhythm, frequency, and texture influence pets’ mood. She first noticed that some songs calmed the dogs while others seemed to make them more alert.Curious about the science behind it, Scheilla discovered studies showing that classical music and reggae can reduce canine anxiety, especially when the rhythm is steady and the volume moderate. Sudden or intense sounds, on the other hand, tend to trigger stress responses.She also found that major streaming platforms like Spotify and Deezer now offer pet-specific playlists designed to match different behavioral profiles. “I realized the market is beginning to take this seriously. It’s not just a fun idea—there’s research behind it,” she said.Inspired by those findings, the DJ experimented with BPM control and sound texture. Slower, smoother tracks created a calmer atmosphere, while faster beats sparked curiosity. “When I lowered the BPM, the room relaxed. When I raised it, they became more attentive,” she explained.Scheilla emphasizes that music is not a replacement for veterinary care but a way to create a more conscious environment. “It’s not therapy, it’s atmosphere. Music organizes energy, and dogs respond to that,” she concluded.Photo: Press Release