Electric vehicles attract canine preference, according to recent research led by a TV vet specialist.
Environmental factors can play a significant role in a dog's comfort during car journeys, with a recent study suggesting that electric vehicles (EVs) may be more appealing to canine passengers. Conducted by Dr. Scott Miller, the resident vet on UK daytime TV show This Morning, the study monitored a one-year-old cocker spaniel named Mango as he traveled in EVs and traditionally-fueled cars. Mango's heart rate, behavior, and body language were observed and recorded during each journey, revealing that traveling in an electric vehicle led to less anxiety compared to gas and diesel cars.
The experiment took place at Dunsfold Aerodrome, where Mango was driven around a track previously used by the BBC's Top Gear. Mango's heart rate remained relatively stable in the electric vehicle, whereas it rose significantly in the gas and diesel cars, indicating increased stress levels. Mango appeared noticeably more relaxed in the electric car, often lying down and nearly sleeping, while he looked more tense in the other two vehicles, with a stiff posture and anxious expressions.
Dr. Miller explained that electric vehicles offer several advantages for dogs, including a smoother and quieter ride due to reduced vibrations and noise, spacious interiors, and a lower center of gravity that can help dogs feel more secure. Dog behaviorist expert Anna Webb concurred, noting that Mango's body language made it clear that he preferred the electric car.
Although the study does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between EVs and reduced anxiety in dogs, it does suggest that the quieter, smoother ride of electric vehicles could contribute to a calmer travel experience for dogs. Other strategies for reducing dog anxiety during car travel include gradual acclimation, using calming aids, and providing a familiar and comfortable environment for dogs to travel in.
For more information on car safety tips, securing a dog in a car, and keeping a dog cool in the car, visit our website and subscribe to our newsletter for the best advice and top tech for pet owners. Don't forget to watch the video of the experiment online to see Mango's reactions to traveling in different types of cars.
- The study conducted by Dr. Scott Miller, a vet on UK daytime TV show This Morning, suggests that electric vehicles (EVs) might be more appealing to canine passengers due to their quieter and smoother ride, spacious interiors, and lower center of gravity, leading to less anxiety in dogs.
- During the experiment at Dunsfold Aerodrome, Mango, a one-year-old cocker spaniel, demonstrated fewer signs of anxiety while traveling in an electric vehicle, compared to riding in gas and diesel cars, as indicated by his heart rate, behavior, and body language.
- Mango appeared more relaxed in the electric car, often lying down and nearly sleeping, while he looked more tense in the other two vehicles, with a stiff posture and anxious expressions.
- Dr. Miller and dog behaviorist expert Anna Webb both agreed that electric vehicles offer several advantages for dogs, potentially contributing to a calmer travel experience for pets.
- Although the study does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship, it does suggest that the ride quality of electric vehicles could play a significant role in reducing dog anxiety during car journeys.
- To ensure a safe and comfortable journey for pets, pet owners should consider strategies such as gradual acclimation, using calming aids, and providing a familiar and comfortable environment, in addition to traveling in electric vehicles.
