Dog exhibition digs up some science

Displays explore the human-canine link, senses, more

The exhibit “Dogs! A Science Tail” has returned to the California Science Center at L.A.’s Exposition Park with displays like a mock archaeological dig. Sorry, but no pets are allowed. Photos courtesy of California Science Center

Among the interactive features, visitors can stick their head into one that simulates how a dog sees and hears. You can also run on a track to see which breed matches your speed.

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By Richard Guzman

riguzman@scng.com

While no actual pets are allowed inside the venue, the California Science Center still found a way to let the dogs in with the return of a popular exhibition that takes a deep look at our furry companions.

Created in 2019 before going on a national tour, the exhibit “Dogs! A Science Tail” returned this month to the Los Angeles venue, once again offering a hands-on, interactive experience that will help dog lovers understand their pets in a new way.

“We know that people love dogs, people connect with their dogs,” said Lucy Chang, curator of life sciences for the center.

“So we thought this was a great opportunity to capitalize on this passion people have for dogs.”

The 8,000-square-foot free exhibit takes a fun and educational look at the history and science behind the strong bonds between humans and dogs as it examines how both are wired for social connection. The center also explores dogs’ senses and abilities.

“There’s a lot of interesting science happening behind understanding how people connect with dogs, and understanding dogs themselves,” Chang said.

Highlights include a display that simulates a dog’s senses and abilities as visitors look through an oversize dog head that lets them see and hear things as a canine would.

“You will be able to see the space in front of you and speakers will play what humans would hear and then what dogs would hear,” Chang said.

There’s also a section where people can find out how fast they are in comparison to various breeds by running on a track that will tell you if you run as fast as, say, a greyhound or as slow as a tiny dog.

“Basically you’re encouraged to see if you can run as fast as certain dog breeds. So people can take off and try to beat the speed of a chihuahua or a German shepherd,” she said.

Visitors can also walk through an interactive neighborhood exploring how pets support the community, and compete in “Jeopawdy!”— a dog-themed trivia game that was recorded with Alex Trebek.

Other areas highlight dog jobs, and visitors will be able to tell stories about their own dogs that will be recorded and become part of the exhibition.

“Dogs are incredible, and we have a really unique bond with dogs, and we would love for people to leave understanding that connection a little bit better,” Chang said.