Dogs

Since the early 1900s, dogs have helped people who are blind to navigate their world. Now, in a very 21st century twist, seeing-eye dogs have gone robotic and added a skill that not even the most well-trained canine could pull off: conversation.

Much in the same way humans can become addicted to online gaming or internet gambling, dogs can become addicted to their toys. That's the finding of new research that examined the behaviors of 105 pups in a laboratory setting.

As more people embrace veganism, for health, ethics, or the planet, they're bumping into a furry conundrum: what do you feed your meat-loving dog when you don't eat meat yourself? Does plant-based dog food have the same nutritional value as meat?

Flat-faced dogs like Pugs and Frenchies may seem extra friendly, but new research shows size, training, and “spoiling” often shape their behavior more than head shape – though some traits are likely hardwired.

Boo the Whippet was the first patient enrolled in a clinical trial of a life-extending drug for senior dogs. A milestone has been reached in the ongoing trial, with 10-year-old Miniature Dachshund Winston being the thousandth dog to enrol.

A team of researchers at Rice University has developed a haptic feedback vest and camera system for a blind dog known as Kunde. The vest helps guide the dog through daily obstacles and the hope is that it will soon do the same for other pups.

The Hello.it retractable leash promises to put an end to your dog bolting away from you willy-nilly, with an electronic emergency brake that locks up within milliseconds of sensing your dog starting to sprint off to create havoc – no charging needed.

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have identified a bunch of genes linked to obesity in dogs – and found the very same ones in humans predisposed to putting on weight too.

If you're an avid outdoorsperson who explores nature with their dogs, the Satellai tracker could keep your pooch safe in the wilderness. This solar-powered gadget can beam your dog's location straight to your phone using satellite connectivity.

So long, days of getting tripped up on your dog's leash and having to do clumsy pirouettes. No more untangling your pudgy little pooch from signposts and fire hydrants. Heel has launched the Roam 350, which it claims is the world's first virtual dog leash.

In the world of dogs and cats, it wouldn't be a stretch to say that canines seem more optimistic and felines less so. But a dog's optimism can apparently be dampened by their human's emotional state, according to new research.

If your doggo wants to join the armed forces, law enforcement, rescue services, or just look badass while guarding the front lawn, Dark Systems has Fido's back with its DarkFighter K9 helmet (hel-mutt?) GEN4 that combines protection and serious attitude.