How do dogs think, feel and communicate? This new exhibit explores that science

You can now see and experience the world of dogs at the Telus World of Science's new feature exhibition. CTV News Edmonton's Miriam Valdes-Carletti reports.

Ever looked at your dog and wondered what they were thinking?

So did the creators of Telus World of Science Edmonton’s (TWOSE) new interactive exhibit, which explores the science behind how ‘man’s best friend’ thinks, communicates with and senses the world.

Dogs! A Science Tail is a family-friendly feature on the roles dogs have played through the years, from ancient wolves to loyal companions.

“Not only is it how they discover the world and see the world through their own eyes and senses … It’s, how do we care for them? What makes them such an integral part of our family and communities? Why are they so good at certain things?” said the centre’s marketing director, Kyla Amrhein.

TWOSE science director Trevor Prentice says humans have essentially co-evolved with dogs, for better or for worse.

“It was definitely a directed process by the humans, even in the early days,” he said.

“Unfortunately, oftentimes what this does is it causes other traits of the dog … so some types of breeds have real serious health issues, even just as soon as they’re born, it’s sort of built into their DNA at this point. So there’s benefits and costs to doing some of that breeding.”

The exhibit explores the science behind our responsibility for that evolution as well as how dogs themselves have adapted to their surroundings.

There are also kid-friendly ways to engage with dog training and culture.

“You can come here, and we’ve got some sensors to see how fast you can run. You get to run down the track and it’ll measure compared to various dog breeds,” Prentice said. He ran about 14 kilometres an hour — almost on par with the average pomeranian.

“I haven’t warmed up yet.”

Dogs! A Science Tail opens to the public on Saturday. For everyone’s safety, your own pet is asked to stay at home — but you’ll have lots to talk about when you’re back.

With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Miriam Valdes-Carletti