# Haptic Signals as a Communication Tool Between Handlers and Dogs: Review of a New Field

## TL;DR

This paper reviews how haptic communication, using vibrations, can improve silent communication between dogs and their handlers, especially in field operations or for impaired dogs.

## Contribution

The paper introduces haptic communication as a novel tool for enhancing non-verbal dog-handler interactions and outlines future research directions.

## Key findings

- Dogs can perceive and discriminate vibration-based signals, suggesting potential for haptic communication.
- Haptic tools may improve handler-dog collaboration in situations requiring silent communication.
- More research is needed to assess the impact of haptic communication on canine welfare.

## Abstract

In recent years, there has been growing interest in developing tools that enable handlers to communicate with their dogs via vibration, a technique known as “haptic communication”. This technology has the potential to enhance handler–dog collaboration, particularly in situations requiring silent or non-verbal communication, and may also improve interactions with sensory-impaired companion dogs. In this review, we examine dogs’ ability to perceive and discriminate vibration-based signals, emphasise the importance of understanding the effects of these tools on canine welfare, and identify future directions for research in this emerging field.

Developing new haptic communication tools to enhance communication between dogs and their handlers during field operations has garnered interest in recent years. It is a promising field that could ameliorate dog–handler interactions in the field while addressing practical challenges, such as the need for discrete communication during operations. When extended to the public, such technology could improve communication with impaired dogs. With this review, we aim to (1) give an overview of dogs’ understanding and discrimination of haptic signals, (2) highlight the need to investigate the possible impact of such tools on dogs’ welfare, as well as (3) point out current caveats and future research directions.