Moose, the Armchair Imagineer: Why Our Dog Loves Walt Disney World Videos
Posted by: Mark Plante Posted on: February 3, 2025
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Let’s face it, our furry companions can be a source of endless amusement. From their playful antics to their sometimes-questionable habits, they keep us entertained every day. But have you ever caught your dog glued to the TV screen, seemingly engrossed in the flickering images? Well, you’re not alone! Our dog, Moose, has developed a particular fondness for Walt Disney World videos, and it’s become a source of joy for both of us.

But why exactly do dogs seem drawn to the television? Contrary to the old adage that dogs can’t see TV, this isn’t quite true. The misconception likely arose from the early days of television, when screens had a much lower frame rate. This refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), determines how many times per second an image is displayed on the screen. The human eye can typically detect flicker at rates below 60 Hz, whereas early televisions displayed images at much slower rates, around 16 Hz. This flickering effect might have appeared like a series of still images to dogs, making it difficult for them to decipher the moving pictures.   

Modern televisions, however, have much higher frame rates, typically exceeding 60 Hz. This allows dogs to perceive a smooth flow of motion, similar to how we see it. So, Moose can definitely see what’s happening on screen!   

But what exactly captures their attention? There are a few possible reasons:

  • Movement: Dogs are naturally drawn to movement, and television provides a constant stream of it. From the vibrant parades at Magic Kingdom to the playful antics of Disney characters, the visuals can be undeniably stimulating for our canine companions.
  • Sounds: The sounds emanating from the TV can also pique their interest. Familiar sounds like barking dogs or exciting theme park music can grab their attention, while the human voices might trigger a curiosity about what’s being said.
  • Color & Contrast: Modern TVs boast a wide range of colors and high contrast, which can be visually appealing to dogs. While they may not perceive color exactly as we do, the bright and bold visuals can be undeniably eye-catching.   

In Moose’s case, his love for Walt Disney World videos seems to be a combination of these factors. The vibrant colors, the movement of characters and rides, and the familiar Disney music all come together to create a captivating experience for him. It’s become a fun way for us to bond and share our love for Disney. We put on a Walt Disney World video, cuddle up on the couch, and Moose gets his own little armchair Imagineering session, soaking in the sights and sounds of the magical world.

So next time you catch your dog seemingly mesmerized by the TV, don’t be surprised! They might just be enjoying their own unique form of entertainment. And who knows, maybe they’re even dreaming of their own Disney adventure someday!