Hearing the Unheard – Noise Only Dog Can Hear

The term “ultrasonic noise” often refers to sounds that are beyond the range of human hearing, typically above 20,000 hertz. While dogs are known for having a more acute sense of hearing compared to humans, they can detect sounds within a broader frequency range, including ultrasound.

Ultrasonic devices emit sounds at frequencies higher than what the human ear can perceive, making them inaudible to most people. However, dogs, with their heightened hearing capabilities, can pick up these ultrasonic sounds.

Dogs have incredible hearing capabilities that far surpass our own. They can hear sounds at much higher frequencies, ranging from 15 Hz to 60,000 Hz, compared to humans who can only hear between 20 Hz and 20,000 Hz. This means there’s a whole world of sound that your furry friend experiences that remains completely silent to you.

Here are some examples of noises only dogs can hear:

• High-pitched squeaks and whistles: Dogs can hear the squeaks of tiny rodents, like mice and voles, which are completely inaudible to us. This helps them be excellent hunters and pest control champions.
• Ultrasonic sounds: Dogs can hear sounds emitted above 20,000 Hz, which are categorized as ultrasonic. These sounds are produced by various sources, including bats, some insects, and even some dog whistles.
• Changes in air pressure: Dogs can detect subtle changes in air pressure, which allows them to hear approaching storms or even earthquakes before we do.

While these noises are silent to us, they play a significant role in your dog’s world. They provide valuable information about their environment, helping them navigate, hunt, communicate, and stay safe.

Here are some things you might notice that indicate your dog is hearing something you can’t:

• Perking up their ears and tilting their head in the direction of the sound.
• Following an invisible scent trail that you can’t detect.
• Becoming anxious or agitated for no apparent reason.

If you’re curious about the world of sound your dog experiences, there are a few things you can do:

• Try using a dog whistle. While you won’t hear the sound, your dog will likely react to it.
• Pay attention to your dog’s behavior and try to identify what triggers their responses.
• Ask your veterinarian if they have any insights into your dog’s specific hearing sensitivity.

Remember, while we may not be able to hear the entire soundscape that our canine companions do, their extraordinary abilities give them a unique perspective on the world around them. This is just one of the many things that make dogs such fascinating and wonderful creatures!