The Gist Bark Buttons: “Who Let the Dogs Talk?”
12 snips
May 29, 2025 
Sadie Dingfelder, author of 'Do I Know You?: A FaceBlind Reporter's Journey into the Science of Sight, Memory and Imagination', returns to discuss the fascinating world of dog talking buttons. She investigates whether these gadgets truly allow dogs to communicate abstract thoughts or if they are just a gimmick. The conversation also touches on the psychology of smarter dogs and explores the challenges and implications of canine communication. Finally, Sadie critiques media narratives surrounding police reform and its impacts on community safety.
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Dogs Use Buttons to Communicate
- Dog buttons allow dogs to communicate basic needs through trained button presses.
- Research shows dogs respond appropriately to button commands, indicating understanding beyond random pressing.
Dogs Press Buttons Purposefully
- Dogs press buttons non-randomly, grouping them in consistent, predictable ways.
- Dogs use buttons differently than owners, often pressing for immediate needs like 'food now'.
Limits of Dog Button Communication
- There's no strong evidence dogs understand abstract concepts like neighbor dog names.
- Dogs might communicate preferences, but research hasn't proven their ability to plan ahead or think beyond immediate areas.
