Does dogs really watch TV? Science says yes

Ever hold your dog staring at the screen during the film night and wonder if they are really looking at? It turns out, they can be. A new scientific study at the University of Obern found that many dogs are actually engaged with television, and not all puppies react in the same way.

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Why dogs watch TV differently

In the past, old TV did not do much for dogs. Their lower fresh rate caused flicker that was difficult for the procedure for the canine eyes. Dog flicker is more sensitively viewed than humans. So when you were watching your favorite Sycom, your dog was probably watching a strobe light. Today’s high-language, high-frame-by TV is a different story. Better view and sound means that dogs can now recognize what is happening onscreen and is answering it.

About this study how dogs react to different types of TV content

Researchers developed something called Dog Television Viewing Scale (DTVs). It is a 16-pronouncement tool that helps measure how dogs respond to a variety of TV content, such as barking, tail-wing, or even following off-screen. He surveyed over 650 dog owners. More than 450 respondents reported that their dogs actually watch TV. From there, three main behavior patterns emerged:

1) Animal interest (DTVs animals)

Dogs responded most strongly to other animals, especially dogs and wildlife.

2) Follow behavior (follow DTVs)

Some dogs physically tracked an object because it went away from the screen. This shows that they feel that the image may be present beyond TV, such as in real life.

3) Human and object reactions (DTVs non-verses)

Dogs also reacted to people and inanimate objects, such as cars or door items.

Personality plays a big role how dogs react to TV

Researchers found that personality, not breed or age, affected how dogs reacted. Exhibited dogs were more likely to demonstrate “follow” behavior, actively looking and expecting the movement. Fearless or reactive dogs were more sensitive to non-fashion stimuli, such as human voice or door bell. Interestingly, dogs did not affect their TV habits, whether they were neutralized sex, breed, or even whether they were neutords. There was also not a strong factor in contact with TV, meaning that dogs are not essential “trained”.

What does it mean to dog owners

If you leave TV for your dog while leaving, you are not alone, and it can also help them feel more comfortable. But not all dogs benefit in the same way. Material matters. Animal-thunder programming can stimulate or calm a curious puppy. But the show with loud voice or human struggle can stress a frightened dog. Some streaming services, such as Dogtv, are now designing the series for dogs. This research gives that idea more scientific reliability.

Can TV shelter help dogs?

Conclusion explains a new tool for improvement of dog welfare, especially in shelters. Analog TV programming can help reduce stress and provide mental enrichment to dogs waiting for adoption. Nevertheless, more research is required. Most of the data have come from the owners whose dogs are already associated with TV. The behavior report was based on what the owners saw instead of direct measurements.

Kurt’s major takeaways

TV cannot only be background noise for your dog. For some, it can be entertained. For others, it can also cause stress relief or excitement. And thanks to the modern screen technique, they are looking at it more clear than before. So next time you hold your dog looking with you, take a moment. They can actually follow the action.

Would you ever let your dog take what is on TV based on their response? Write us and tell us Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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