Every time I take Arrow for a walk, I stuff a random number of small biscuits into my pocket. This is mostly for backup in case we encounter something really exciting (like a jogger or a biker flying past), and I want to be able to quickly grab his attention without grabbing his collar or cinching the leash. Also, as we walk, I like to randomly reward him with food (and always with praise) for looking back and checking in with me, so that he stays connected.
What I find fascinating is how he always seems to know exactly how many biscuits I have. Down to the last crumb. How do I know he knows when I’m out? When I have biscuits left, he’ll check in by turning and coming up to me to see if there’s something in it for him. The moment I’ve run out, he’ll just turn and look back to make sure I’m there and then go on about his business.
I’ve watched myself to see if I’m somehow giving him cues that would signal to him that I’m out. I can’t detect any. I’ve sniffed the biscuits to see if they’re smelly. They’re not. I’m left with only one conclusion.
Can dogs count? My dog can. How about yours?
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