Understanding the Canine Ear
Dogs have an auditory range of 60 Hz to 45 kHz, much broader than ours. While humans hear up to about 20 kHz, dogs can hear high-pitched sounds that are imperceptible to us.
This extreme sensitivity explains why noises like fireworks, thunder, or machinery can cause them anxiety, fear, or even panic. For these moments, products like the Hush Muff™ from Soothe and Settle have been specifically developed to provide hearing protection and emotional calm.
Technical Analysis of Hush Muff™ Sound Attenuation
Research on the Hush Muff™ shows effective attenuation of between 6 and 12 dB in low and mid frequencies (<300 Hz–3 kHz), and between 12 and 18 dB in high frequencies (>4 kHz).
This means that the device especially reduces high-pitched sounds, which are more bothersome for dogs.
Figure 1 – Without Hush Muff (reference pink noise track)
Through spectral analysis with and without the Hush Muff™, a minimum reduction of 6 dB across the entire frequency range was confirmed, equivalent to a perceptible decrease in ambient noise.
Design, Fit, and Calming Effect
The Hush Muff™ was designed to fit gently around the dog's head, covering its ears and passing under the chin. This ergonomic design offers a dual function:
- Physical reduction of external noise.
- Feeling of containment and security, which generates a calming effect similar to weighted blankets in humans.
Figure 2 – With Hush Muff on
The results confirm that the Hush Muff™ halves the perceived sound pressure in situations with loud noises like storms, fireworks, construction, or during transport.
What Decibels Mean in Practice
To better understand the real impact:
- 🔈 A 6 dB reduction is equivalent to hearing the noise at half the volume.
- 🔇 A 12 dB reduction decreases it to one-quarter.
This means that your dog, when wearing the Hush Muff™, perceives intense noises 2 to 4 times less loudly, especially in the frequencies that bother them the most.
Results: A Calmer, More Protected Dog
Although the Hush Muff™ does not actively cancel noise, it acts as an effective auditory buffer. Its combination of absorbent material, ergonomic fit, and calming psychological effect helps reduce stress and improve the dog's overall well-being.
✅ Reduces perceived sound pressure by up to 50%.
✅ Especially softens high and bothersome frequencies.
✅ Promotes a state of calm and security.
The Hush Muff™ thus becomes an essential tool for dogs sensitive to noise or with anxiety due to loud sounds, improving their quality of life and allowing their guardians to offer them a calmer and safer experience.
Analysis Authors
John Rankin, BA (Hons)
Daniel Miller, MDes
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