Will Dogs Save Their Owners in危难?

Throughout human history, the tales of dogs saving their owners are countless, a testament to the deep bond between man's best friend and his master.

Have you ever pondered the scenario: What if one day, an unforeseen accident were to occur, perhaps a fainting spell at home or a fall into a river? Would your dog come to your rescue?

In strict terms, dogs that have saved their owners, or are capable of doing so, possess three essential skills that are indispensable.

1. Can the dog discern whether the owner truly needs assistance and what rewards might come from helping?

2. Can the dog master the appropriate method of rescue?

3. Does the dog have the ability to assist effectively?

Here are examples that fulfill these three skills:

The Arizona State University conducted a test to investigate this question. They set up a very lightweight cardboard box in a room, filled with food the dogs had previously eaten. They left large openings around the box, allowing the dogs to see and smell the food inside.

The results were clear: all the dogs managed to retrieve the food.

Next, the researchers placed the dog's owner inside the box and had them emit cries for help, such as "Help me" or "Save me," with a distinct tone of distress.

What was the dogs' response? Almost all of them exhibited signs of anxiety, barking, and tension, signaling that they had detected a problem with their owner and needed help. For instance, some dogs would bark loudly at the door, trying to draw the attention of the researchers; others would try to push the box open to reach their owner.

When the dog owner reentered the box and simply read a magazine, the dogs remained calm outside the box, either guarding the perimeter or gently pushing the box to sit next to the owner.

This test revealed that most dogs capable of saving their owners in dangerous situations have a habit of playing hide and seek or taking walks with their owners in everyday life.

In other words, the better the daily relationship between you and your dog, the more likely the dog is to notice your changes and attempt to save you in times of danger.