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. 2017:2017:1.
doi: 10.1145/3152130.3152146.

Utilising dog-computer interactions to provide mental stimulation in dogs especially during ageing

Lisa J Wallis  1   2 , Friederike Range  1   3 , Enikő Kubinyi  2 , Durga Chapagain  1 , Jessica Serra  4 , Ludwig Huber  1
Affiliations

Utilising dog-computer interactions to provide mental stimulation in dogs especially during ageing

Lisa J Wallis et al. ACI 2017 Improv Relat (2017). 2017.

Abstract

Aged dogs suffer from reduced mobility and activity levels, which can affect their daily lives. It is quite typical for owners of older dogs to reduce all activities such as walking, playing and training, since their dog may appear to no longer need them. Previous studies have shown that ageing can be slowed by mental and physical stimulation, and thus stopping these activities might actually lead to faster ageing in dogs, which can result in a reduction in the quality of life of the animal, and may even decrease the strength of the dog-owner bond. In this paper, we describe in detail a touchscreen apparatus, software and training method that we have used to facilitate dog computer interaction (DCI). We propose that DCI has the potential to improve the welfare of older dogs in particular through cognitive enrichment. We provide hypotheses for future studies to examine the possible effects of touchscreen use on physiological, behavioural and cognitive measures of dogs' positive affect and well-being, and any impact on the dog-owner bond. In the future, collaborations between researchers in animal-computer interaction, dog trainers, and cognitive scientists are essential to develop the hardware and software necessary to realise the full potential of this training and enrichment tool.

Keywords: Animal welfare; Dog computer interaction; Dogs; H.5.m. Information interfaces and presentation (ACI); Learning; Miscellaneous; Motivation; Senior; Touchscreen.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Schematic diagram of the touchscreen apparatus, including: Feeder box (containing food dispenser and computer/laptop), movable doors to block out distractions, and adjustable computer touchscreen. Treats are dispensed through a tube from the feeder box, or a feeding device such as the Treat & Train can be used to dispense treats at a distance. Top left: Photograph of the food dispenser used in the studies. Bottom right: Treat & Train automatic food dispenser with remote control.
Figure 2
Figure 2
A dog standing in the “testing niche” (moveable doors folded in) demonstrating the correct position for the dog to best utilise the touchscreen apparatus.
Figure 3
Figure 3
A Border collie working on the touchscreen in the two choice discrimination
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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