Animal behaviourist weighs in on Bluey fan theory about why dogs seem to enjoy watching too

If Madeline Carpou wants her family dog Lilliput to stay calm and relaxed, she uses the remote control to put on Bluey.

Ms. Carpou discovered that her pooch had a liking for the famous blue heeler from ABC when she had to take care of her dog while she had plans with her friends at the same time. It so happened that she had to leave her dog at her parents' house.

While she was away, Ms. Carpou put on a continuous Bluey marathon for Lilliput to keep her company and also provided her with a chewy delicacy.

After a span of five hours, she came back to find her dog happy and satisfied.

Ms Carpou said that the person greeted her in the usual manner before promptly returning to the couch to continue indulging in Bluey while also enjoying a treat.

We viewed it collectively for half an hour, and she was completely engrossed.

River has a great fondness for observing Bluey and gnawing on his preferred doll that has Bluey's theme. (Provided)

The labradoodle of Mary Bolling, named River, is also a huge supporter of the show. However, due to growing up in a household with a Bluey enthusiast, he didn't really have a say in the matter.

As per the owner's statement, the enthusiastic 24-month-old pup is most peaceful when sitting down with the family in front of the monitor.

According to Ms Bolling, she considers it to be one of his beloved programs.

"Experience Bluey In HD!"

There's a popular idea going around on social media, specifically on TikTok, that claims Bluey, the TV show, utilizes specific colors that are visible to dogs. This might be the reason why many of them seem to be attracted to the series.

Is it possible for science to truly clarify the actions of River and Lilliput?

Kate Mornement, an animal behavior expert from rural Victoria, stated that dogs may not be completely color blind, opposing the common belief.

Kate Mornement works in Victoria as an animal behaviourist. (Provided by Kate Mornement)

During an interview with ABC Victorian Mornings, she mentioned that these individuals are only capable of perceiving different tones of grey, brown, yellow and blue.

The reason why they see fewer colors than humans is due to their eyes having a lower number of cones that can sense color.

Although Bluey mostly features shades of blue, yellow, and brown which are colors that dogs can easily detect, Dr. Mornement suggests that there might be an alternative explanation for why certain dogs seem to take pleasure in watching the show.

The upsurge of dogs watching TV in recent times has become an extraordinary occurrence, and the root cause is none other than high-definition TV.

The creation of this gadget has simplified the process of viewing images on screens for dogs, causing their increased fascination compared to earlier times.

Frankie, a dog that belongs to Andrew Galbraith, is a huge admirer of Bluey. (Provided)

Therefore, is it possible for canines to comprehend what is being displayed on the television or do they only see vague figures?

According to Dr. Mornement, there are videos on social media where dogs are seen watching TV. When the videos show animals, the dogs become more intrigued. These videos have caught Dr. Mornement's attention due to their uniqueness.

Certain canines may be curious and display their fascination by tilting their heads and fixating on the television screen, whereas other dogs may exhibit fear and discomfort, often leading to excessive barking.

"I've also provided assistance to customers who had dogs that are so afraid of what they see on the TV that they display extremely aggressive jumping behavior."

Bluey's Creators: Insights Revealed!

Ludo Studio, the team responsible for the show, made a humorous remark that the realization that dogs are not incapable of perceiving colors has presented an intriguing chance for innovation in both the creative and financial aspects of the program.

The studio joked that they collaborated with scientists from Queensland while creating Bluey's lead art design to ensure the series had an attractive color scheme and interesting storylines that would cater to both dogs and their families.

Now that studios are making TV shows with colors that dogs like, should we limit how much our dogs watch TV?

"See, it's alright to have everything in moderation, just like taking care of kids," Dr. Mornement chuckled.

It's perfectly acceptable to let your dog watch some TV occasionally as long as it doesn't make them anxious.

Great news for dog lovers who enjoy watching Bluey! This Sunday, the ABC will broadcast a 28-minute special episode of the beloved animated series called The Sign.

The new release is very recent and comes after an episode called Ghostbasket that came out last weekend. In that episode, there was a situation where the Heelers' house is now for sale which leaves you hanging, making you wonder what will happen next.

Watch the latest episode of Bluey titled "Ghostbasket" on ABC iview. Additionally, don't miss the 28-minute special episode of Bluey named "The Sign" airing at 8am on April 14 only on ABC iview.