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Dogs happiest when listening to reggae
radio
Dogs are happiest when they are listening to reggae music and soft rock. 
Research shows dogs have different music tastes

Many pet owners leave classical music on for their dogs when they leave them home alone. Now, new research suggests they prefer to listen to something that packs a bit more punch.

According to a study by the University of Glasgow and the Scottish SPCA, dogs are happiest when they are listening to reggae music and soft rock.  

The two genres were found to show the most positive change in behaviour and the animal charity is now looking to invest in sound systems for all their kennels.

PhD student Amy Bowman said that the research clearly shows that music has an effect on a dog’s behaviour.

“We were keen to explore the effect playing different genres of music had, and it was clear that the physiological and behavioural changes observed were maintained during the trial when the dogs were exposed to a variety of music,” she said.

Professor Neil Evans added: “Overall, the response to different genres was mixed highlighting the possibility that like humans, our canine friends have their own individual music preferences.

“That being said, reggae music and soft rock showed the highest positive changes in behaviour.”

This latest research follows a study by the Scottish SPCA in 2015 that showed the impact classical music had on a dog’s behaviour.

Both the Edinburgh and Glasgow SPCA Centres already play music into their kennels. But the charity hopes every centre will soon be able to offer its furry friends a canine-approved playlist.

The research was published in the journal Physiology and Behaviour.

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RCVS announces 1CPD app update

News Story 1
 The RCVS has announced a new version of its 1CPD mobile app, with enhanced features for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses to record their continuing professional development.

The mobile app includes a new 'what would you like to do?' shortcut for frequent tasks, a notification badge, and the ability to scan a QR code from the home screen to easily record an activity.

Users will be prompted to update the app from the App Store or Google Play the next time they log in. For more information, visit RCVS.org.uk 

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Nominations open for RCVS and VN Council elections

The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.