Do Dogs Understand Mirrors and TV Screens? What Science Says

Watching a pet's reaction when she looks at the mirror or when barking at the TV screen will often amuse pet parents. Naturally, this leads to wonder, "Do dogs understand mirrors and TV screens?". Let us see what science says on this.

How Dogs React to Mirrors

When facing the mirror for the first time, most dogs treat their reflection as another dog. The initial reactions would be to:

• bark or growl
• sniff and try to check behind the mirror
• tilt their head in confusion.

This may go on for the first few times. Over time, many dogs lose interest in their reflection in mirrors because the reflection has no smell and it does not respond like a real dog. So, the fact is that unlike humans, dogs generally do not recognize themselves in mirrors.

Do Dogs Recognize Themselves in Mirrors?

According to studies, dogs rely more on smell than sight. Unlike animals like chimpanzees and dolphins, dogs cannot identify themselves in mirrors as their brains are wired to identify more through smell.

So, dogs learn that, reflection is not harmful but they do not learn that reflection is themselves. 

Do Dogs Understand TV?

While dogs can watch TV, they may not understand TV the way humans dog. Dogs are more likely to respond to fast movements, animal sounds and high-contrast visuals.

Modern HD TVs seem to give a great watching experience to dogs as many dogs react more to screens than in the past.

Why Some Dogs Bark at the TV

Some dogs react while watching TV while some just watch or ignore. Here are some of the reasons why some dogs bark at the TV.

• They hear barking or doorbell sounds.
• They see animals moving.
• Their prey instinct is triggered.
• They think someone is entering their territory.

Should You Let Your Dog Watch TV?

Watching TV can help your dog in few ways. It can provide mild mental stimulation, reduce boredom and it can help anxious dogs when left alone at home. However, watching TV is never a replacement for walks, playtime and human interaction. 

FAQ Section

Q: Do dogs know what they watch on TV is not real?
Experts say that most dogs do not understand it’s fake. They react based on sound and movement.

Q: Can mirrors confuse dogs?
At first, yes. But most dogs adapt quickly and start showing disinterest. What fun when there is no scent or movement for our furry members?

Q: Is dog TV good for anxiety?

Dog TV can help mildly anxious dogs but this should not be the only solution.