Audio Analysis

Sound Attenuation Analysis of the Hush Muff™

It is important to note first that the hearing range for a dog is around 60Hz-45KHz and testing and research on Soothe and Settle’s Hush Muff has shown that the product effectively attenuates 6-12dB from lower and mid-range frequencies (<300Hz-3KHz) and up to 12-18dB for high frequencies (>4KHz). This suggests an exponential reduction at higher frequencies, which is relevant as dogs will perceive frequencies in excess of 45kHz.

Figure 1 (No Hush Muff, pink noise reference track)

Using spectral analysis, we tested and recorded with and without a Hush Muff concluding its design, and material does function suitably to attenuate sound, providing at least 6dB attenuation across the frequency range.

These figures show that the design of the Hush Muff, which wraps comfortably around the top of the dog’s head, their ears and under their chin as a physical and mental calming device appears to work in conjunction with the sound attenuation created by design that reduces external sound and while it doesn’t cancel noise the Hush Muff is an excellent product for relieving anxiety or stress caused by loud noises, attenuating the pressure level perceived by your dog from fireworks, roadworks, weather events or transport by half.

Figure 2 (Hush Muff on).

In conclusion the Hush Muff is an excellent product to help with attenuating or “muffling”  sounds that cause anxieties or fear in dogs should they need it. It does not remove all sound, nor does it cancel noise in the way that noise-cancelling headphones do, however it attenuates the most harmful parts of loud sounds by half at the low end, and as the frequency climbs higher, making these noises more manageable for your pet.

John Rankin BA (Hons), Daniel Miller MDes. 


📉 What does that mean in practice?

  • Noise halved: Since decibels are measured on a logarithmic scale, a reduction of ~6 dB cuts perceived loudness in half, and ~12 dB cuts it to a quarter of the original volume.
  • High-pitched sounds especially softened: Dogs are more sensitive to high frequencies, so that 12–18 dB drop can dramatically reduce startling or painful noises.