While dogs joining in on binge-watching is not a new phenomenon, there has been little research into the way these pets perceive with television.
A new study, published in Scientific Reports, suggests the way household dogs engage with TV may depend on their personalities.
‘Not only is it more common for dogs to be exposed to media, but television quality is increasing in a way that makes the stimuli from these devices fit more seamlessly into the surrounding environment,’ write the authors.
‘Understanding of such behaviors would provide a more comprehensive picture of dogs’ perceptual experiences, with practical applications for visual presentations in experimental settings.’
The team from Auburn University in Alabama, USA recruited 650 dog owners to take part in a survey.
Given the lack of previous research, the team had to create a new method of data collection known as the Dog Television Viewing Scale (DTVS). The DTVS consisted of 16 questions for owners about how their furry friends interacted with audio and visual stimuli from the television.
This survey was used alongside two additional scales known as the Positive and Negative Activation Scale and the Dog Impulsivity Assessment Scale.
The dogs were assessed for the reaction to animal stimuli, non-animal stimuli and the extent to which they followed objects on screen.
Approximately 45 per cent of dogs always responded to dog noises like barking when they were heard on TV, with the study finding dogs were more likely to respond to seeing animals on screen than any other stimuli.
‘Overall, this study indicates that companion dogs experience a meaningful, object-filled world when they view television,’ write the authors.
However, dogs that were reported by their owner as fearful or anxious were more likely to respond to non-animal stimuli such as doorbells and car horns.
Excitable dogs more frequently followed on-screen objects as though they were real.
The authors hope this study can provide helpful information to pet owners and trainers about how man’s best friend perceives the world around them.
In Australia, the average household has 2 TVs with 48 per cent of households also having at least 1 dog. This means in Australia alone, there are a considerable number of pooches that are cuddling up in front of the television.
‘In situations where problem behaviors are being exhibited towards television media, these temperament-level differences could inform the best training practices to address such problems,’ the authors suggest.
While the authors note that the study is limited by the fact that it only surveyed owners who regularly let their dogs watch TV, they believe these studies provide a foundation for future studies.
‘Further evaluation of these behaviors could result in appropriate application of television interventions in shelters based upon individual dog temperament,’ the authors suggest.
They also add that this information could be used to avoid potential stressors and enrich the type of programming owners let their canines watch.
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