Sneaky K-9's

Canine Cognition

A recent study out of the UK found that dogs may understand that humans cannot see in the dark, and they will take advantage of the lack of sight to sneak a treat.  During the study 84 dogs were watched under varying light conditions.  The lighting conditions were changed so that the person in the room was either illuminated or in the dark.  The same lighting changes were done with food that the dogs were verbally commanded not to eat. Overall the study concluded that more often than not, dogs would wait until the person was in the dark and could not see to sneak some of the food. Traditionally people have thought that dogs learn from conditioning, such as commands, but this is not necessarily true. This study shows that dogs are aware of their environment, even when commands are given.

We all know our dogs are smart, this study just suggest they might be smarter than we think! So next time you think your dog does not understand the commands you give him, just know that it could be he understands when you are not paying attention he might be able to get away with it.

Photo Courtesy of: shandrew