Recent research has unveiled a fascinating cognitive ability in a select group of dogs, dubbed 'gifted word learner' (GWL) dogs. These remarkable canines possess the capacity to learn the names of new objects, not through direct training, but by simply overhearing their owners discussing them. This sophisticated learning process mirrors that of 18-month-old human toddlers, suggesting a shared sociocognitive pathway for acquiring language.
The study, conducted by researchers at Eötvös Lorán d University, built upon previous work that established GWL dogs' ability to memorise object names and even extend those labels to new items with similar functions, a skill known as 'label extension'. In this latest investigation, scientists adapted an experimental protocol typically used with young children. They observed that GWL dogs were highly successful in learning new toy labels, whether their owners directly addressed them or spoke about the toys in the presence of the dogs without direct engagement. Crucially, the dogs demonstrated an understanding of the learned labels in comprehension tests, even when the new toys were mixed with familiar ones, and retained this knowledge for at least two weeks.
Interestingly, the study also found that temporal continuity – the unbroken sequence of an object being presented and named – was not essential for these dogs to form object-label associations. This indicates a robust learning mechanism that can function even with more f ragmented exposure. However, it's important to note that this impressive ability is not widespread among all dogs. When tested with typical border collies, researchers found no evidence of genuine learning, suggesting their interest in new toys was likely driven by novelty rather than word acquisition. The findings highlight that under specific conditions, certain dogs exhibit cognitive behaviours strikingly similar to those of young children, offering valuable insights into the evolutionary development of language in humans.
Fuente Original: https://arstechnica.com/science/2026/01/these-dogs-eavesdrop-on-their-owners-to-learn-new-words/
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