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Does Your Dog Watch TV? Here's What Screens Can Say About Their Personality

Understanding how dogs react to screens could help us train them better and expand their entertainment options.

ByJenny Lehmann
(Image Credit: Lazy_Bear/Shutterstock) Lazy_Bear/Shutterstock

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We've all seen the online videos of dogs barking at, chasing, or otherwise intently watching something as it flits across a TV screen. And it's not just our favorite programs or cartoons that some dogs will watch. Dog-specific TV programs are on the rise, intentionally addressing our four-legged friends’ interests, at least among those who watch TV.

While some dogs eagerly follow the moving pictures and even try to interact with them, others don’t seem to care what's on TV at all. Researchers from Auburn University’s Department of Psychological Sciences asked dog owners to rate their companions’ behavior toward TV images, and their study, published in Scientific Reports, revealed an intriguing link between personality and viewing habits.

Beyond filling a quirky knowledge gap, studies like this can help us fine-tune training and expand enrichment options for our furry friends.

Television offers dogs a unique sensory experience. Depending on how they ...

  • Jenny Lehmann

    Having worked as a biomedical research assistant in labs across three countries, Jenny excels at translating complex scientific concepts – ranging from medical breakthroughs and pharmacological discoveries to the latest in nutrition – into engaging, accessible content. Her interests extend to topics such as human evolution, psychology, and quirky animal stories. When she’s not immersed in a popular science book, you’ll find her catching waves or cruising around Vancouver Island on her longboard.

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