Dogs Think Robo-Vacs Suck

Pet owners try to keep the peace between high technology and 'bio-pets'
By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff
Posted Jun 11, 2008 9:00 AM CDT

Dogs are getting more suspicious as robots get more sophisticated, the Wall Street Journal reports. Dog owners find that jealous, territorial, or terrified pooches bark at the robots—and sometimes rip them apart. Some post videos of the battles on YouTube, while others are trying to find ways for canine and robot to live together peacefully.

The Roomba robot vacuum is a particular pet hate. One owner took the advice offered on a forum and gave the "bad vacuum" a telling off in front of his dog. Apparently reassured of his place as top dog, the pet then left the vacuum alone. PETA recommends taking care before introducing any robot to a household that has "bio-pets" living in it. (More Roomba stories.)

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