Dogs are known for their obedience and ability to follow commands, but a recent study conducted by scientists from the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig and the University of Portsmouth in the UK has shed light on their ability to reason and make decisions. The study aimed to determine whether dogs could understand that they were less likely to be caught stealing food in the dark, and the results were surprising.
In the study, 84 dogs were tested in three different experiments, each with increasing levels of difficulty. In the first experiment, the dogs were instructed not to eat a piece of food that was deemed “forbidden,” and they obeyed as long as the experimenter was in the room. However, when the room was completely dark, the dogs were more likely to steal the food. The researchers found that the dogs were able to reason that they were less likely to be caught in the dark, and therefore, they were more likely to take the risk.
The researchers also found that the dogs were less likely to steal the food when the experimenter was in the dark, but the food was illuminated. This suggests that the dogs were able to understand that the experimenter could still see them, even in the dark. However, when an object was placed between the experimenter and the food, the dogs were unable to determine whether or not they were being watched.
The study provides insight into the cognitive abilities of dogs and their ability to reason and make decisions based on their environment. While dogs may not be as advanced as other animals, such as chimpanzees or ravens, they are still capable of complex reasoning and decision-making. The study also highlights the importance of understanding the behavior of dogs and how they perceive their environment, which can help improve their training and overall well-being.
