DOGTV is an American premiumcable television network and the first television network that is made specifically for dogs. The network was founded in equal parts by Ron Levi and Guy Martinovsky, its first CEO, that sold his shares later To Jasmine Group. DOGTV provides 24/7 digital TV programming that is designed to provide entertainment for dogs.
The programming, created with the help of dog behavior specialists, is color-adjusted to appeal to dogs, and features 3-6 minute segments designed to relax, to stimulate, and to expose the dog to scenes of everyday life such as doorbells or riding in a vehicle. In 2012, the San Diego Humane Society in Escondido installed DOGTV for their shelter dogs.[1]
Founding
The idea for DOGTV came from founder, Ron Levi[2] and his cat named Charlie. “He just gave me the saddest eyes one day,” Levi said of Charlie when he was leaving the house one day.[3] This prompted Levi to edit videos of squirrels, birds and fish for Charlie to enjoy while he was away.[4]
Launch
DOGTV initially launched in Israel. In February 2012, DOGTV launched in a test market in San Diego, California through Cox and Time Warner, where people and dogs were able to experience the channel for free.[5] The successful launch in this test market set the stage for a commercial launch nationwide on DirecTV.[6]
DOGTV has three types of programs that cycle throughout the day.
Stimulation
Stimulation episodes show dogs playing in a field, graphics accompanied by engaging sounds and visits to the dog park from the dog's perspective.
Relaxation
Relaxation episodes play soft music, with calm scenes like animals at a safari, or dogs napping at home.
Exposure
Exposure episodes focus on potential sounds a dog might hear in common environments such as thunderstorms, vacuum cleaners and fireworks.
Available markets
DOGTV is available in the U.S., Mexico, Brazil, Portugal, South Korea, China, UK, Australia and New Zealand. In the U.S. the channel is available on DirecTV, Dish, Xfinity, Cox, RCN, Sling TV and supported streaming devices.
