Magnetic Alignment Enhances Homing Efficiency of Hunting Dogs

Abstract

Overview

Despite anecdotal reports of the astonishing homing abilities in dogs, their homing strategies are not fully understood.

Findings

We equipped 27 hunting dogs with GPS collars and action cams, allowed them to freely roam in forested areas, and analyzed components of homing in over 600 trials. During their return to the owner (homewards), dogs either followed their outbound track ('tracking') or used a novel route ('scouting').

• The inbound track during scouting began predominantly with a short (approximately 20 meters) run along the north-south geomagnetic axis, irrespective of the actual direction homewards.
• Conducting such a 'compass run' significantly increased their homing efficiency.

Conclusion

This 'compass run' appears to be instrumental in aligning the mental map of the dogs with the magnetic compass, establishing their heading during navigation.