While humans across the globe are encouraged to celebrate all things instrumental today, veterinarian Andrew Denham said dogs too benefit from soulful sounds.

“In the hospital and recovery areas we play gentle soothing music as well as using plug-in diffusers in the hospital areas which are specific to dogs and cats,” he said.

“With dogs that are recovering from surgery it seems to work quite well, especially when they’re in stressful situations away from their families.”

Dr Denham said research from the US has found that dogs have definite musical preferences, with classical music having a calming effect and heavy metal causing agitation.

Orange Regional Conservatorium musician Kyle Manning said he’s seen it in his fox terriers Louis and Odo.

“I was learning the harmonica part to Stevie Wonder’s ‘Isn’t She Lovely’, and the dogs came into the room and started howling along with me as I played,” he said.

For dog owners struggling to contain barking dogs at night, when playing music is probably not at option, Dr Denham said it is important to look at the cause of their furry friend’s agitation.

“They are probably bored or responding to outside sounds,” he said.

“There’s not one simple fix but I’d suggest spending some time figuring out the cause of their distress and whether or not something can be done to remove it.”