July 14, 2024, 1:04 pm | Read time: 5 minutes
Machines and computers no longer seem to be just replacing people, they are also replacing our pets. The new “Robo-Dog” was presented at Interzoo. PETBOOK author and dog expert Philine Ebert witnessed this new trend live at the largest international pet trade fair. She took a closer look at the robotic dog product.
As soon as I stepped into the Interzoo trade fair grounds, in May, I had the latest pet technology, the Go2 Air robot dog, scurrying around me. Designed to be controlled like a remote-controlled car, this AI-equipped robot is intended to mimic the movements of a real dog. Despite my initial excitement at seeing this technical innovation, after a few minutes, I realized that the Robo-Dog has very little in common with a real dog.
Strange and Peculiar
In the lead-up to the fair, media reports in recent months have repeatedly described the robot dog as a companion. People have reported on how they organize their everyday lives around a “robo-dog” instead of an actual dog. But can a robot dog be an alternative to a real, loyal, warm, soft, and beloved companion?
As a dog lover, I can’t find any pleasure or positive emotion when a robot sits down and raises its arms as if they were paws. It seems strange and peculiar. Other visitors watching the spectacle also seemed to have this impression.
Its head, reminiscent of a spherical surveillance camera, lacks any resemblance to the appearance, beauty, or charm of a dog’s face. Its movements are neither graceful nor athletic like those of a real dog, but rather awkward, spindly, and stiff.
My experience with the robot dog somehow still sticks with me because I can’t understand this “purchase”. I want to find out more about this new trend.
Why would anyone buy a robot like this?
The advanced robot dog, equipped with the latest technology, is supposed to usher in the new era of the pet. It is promised to be an innovative creation that has the lovable nature of a loyal companion, representing a new generation of “family member”. A dog with a dynamic design inspired by nature.
The benefits are clearly defined. This “pet” does what it is told to do. On command, it can “give a paw”, “play fetch”, jump, or bark. In theory, the Robo-Dog should even be able to walk without a lead using a sensor that allows it to avoid obstacles or other pedestrians, thanks to its built-in radar.
Prices range from 3000 to 8000 euros
This robotic pet requires no set walking or feeding schedules, nor does it need affection or love. It only comes into action when you press the start button. After a considerable purchase cost of between 3,000 and 8,000 euros, all that is required for a Robo-Dog’s life is a little electricity. You can walk your dog for one to two hours on a single charge. There are no costs for food, equipment, insurance, or vets. Allergies, children, or landlords are also no longer a problem.
The time-saving aspect is also highlighted. Given that the robot dog doesn’t pause to sniff, engage with other dogs, or relieve itself. This means that you no longer have to carry a bag around with you and dispose of its waste. The Robo-Dog can even transport objects weighing up to around eight kilograms (17.6 pounds). Those can be strapped to its back.
What does everyday life look like with a robot dog?
In several major cities, you can already spot people walking their Robo-Dogs on leashes as though they were real dogs. When asked what motivates them to buy a robot instead of a real-life one, most people answer that it’s just for the exercise. This provides them with the motivation to get outside and walk.
Most of the robot dog owners have never had a dog before. That is probably self-explanatory for every dog owner, if it’s only about the sporting effect.
In Japan, the pet robot trend is already widespread. There, it is primarily senior citizens who have a Robo-Dog. They don’t have to look after the robot, they just go for a walk when their health permits or when they feel like it.1
Robot dogs are set to patrol railroad lines
The use of a robot on railroad premises and tracks is currently being tested in Munich. In the future, the dog-like walking robots will be used to patrol the tracks and protect S-Bahn trains from graffiti attacks.
A waist-high robot dog weighs 40 kilograms (88 pounds), is autonomous during the day and night, recharges itself at a charging station, and is designed to cover an area of around 100 square meters (328 square feet). If being lifted, the mechanical four-legged friend defends itself by “kicking”. If it falls over, it gets up again on its own.
With three cameras attached to its body, it can transmit live signals and send an AI-supported alarm to railroad employees if it detects unauthorized persons or other irregularities. This is the latest generation of unaccompanied guard dogs. In the future, it could also be used in rescue operations or in hazardous areas.2
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My personal conclusion
The concept of the robot dog neither fascinated nor impressed me. On the contrary, at a pet fair, I found the idea rather off-putting. No robot can replace everything that makes dogs special, what we love about them and what makes life with them exciting and wonderful.
No technology can replace the love and affection our animals give us. In my opinion, this is a toy trend for adults and technology freaks. It will not catch on in Germany.
This kind of robot is certainly useful and helpful when used for special monitoring of areas that are difficult to access. But I don’t see a future for it as a replacement or alternative to owning a pet.