Perhaps channelling the music of JS Bark or Poochini, composer and pianist Iain Jackson has written a new piece of classical music proven to help dogs relax, according to a study by pet food brand Eukanuba, which commissioned the piece. A Dog’s Tale, performed by the Nero String Orchestra, was premiered at UK dog show Crufts to an audience of canine critics.

“There were two key elements in writing this piece of music for the dogs,” Jackson said. “Firstly, we wanted to create something that would have a calming effect and help to relax dogs. And secondly, we wanted to tell the story of a dog’s life from puppy into junior, adulthood, then as they mature and become a senior dog.”

Iain Jackson conducting A Dog’s Tale for a canine audience. Photo © Eukanuba

“We wanted the music to demonstrate the building blocks of each individual life stage, representing a dog’s nature, personality and overall wellbeing, whilst also celebrating the companionship that we share with our dogs,” he explained. “This acted as our blueprint for developing the score, telling a true ‘Dog’s Tale’.”

Eukanuba’s veterinary training manager Kellie Ceccarelli measured the effect...