International Dog Day 2025: How AI Is Making Life Better for Dogs

International Dog Day is tomorrow (Tuesday 26th August), and it isn’t just about extra treats and long walks (though our four-legged friends certainly wouldn’t object, especially my niece's dog). It’s also a chance to reflect on how technology is reshaping pet care—and what those changes mean for our companions. From smart collars that detect illness before it escalates to AI-powered toys that prevent boredom, innovations in dog care highlight a wider truth: when data meets compassion, outcomes improve for everyone. As these technologies advance, they give us a glimpse of the future of pet care.

My niece's dog. He's getting treats later and when he does, he'll be a lot happier than he is in this photo, honest.

Smarter Health Monitoring

AI-powered collars like PetPace and Fi Series 3 can track a dog’s heart rate, temperature, sleep quality, and even subtle signs of pain. These devices continuously collect and analyse health data, sending alerts if something seems unusual. The idea is simple: spot problems early, before they become crises. Pet owners gain peace of mind, vets can intervene sooner, and dogs receive the timely care they need.

Beyond collars, AI-enabled cameras such as Furbo and Petcube can detect behaviours like excessive barking, licking, or pacing—clues that a dog might be unwell or stressed. Some systems even use computer vision to analyse a dog’s skin, eyes, or stool for visible changes. Conditions that might otherwise go unnoticed for weeks can be flagged within hours. In future, more advanced systems may integrate directly with veterinary records, giving vets continuous insights into their patients’ daily lives.

Health monitoring doesn’t just help with emergencies. It also allows for long-term wellness tracking. Imagine being able to see how a dog’s recovery is progressing after surgery, or how changes in diet or exercise affect their overall health—all logged automatically. This proactive approach makes preventative care the new standard.

Behaviour and Training

AI tools are now analysing a dog’s body language or vocalisations to tailor training programmes. For example, apps using AI-driven behaviour analysis can recommend personalised training routines. Interactive toys like Wickedbone and PupPod adapt play styles to reduce boredom and keep dogs mentally engaged. Researchers at the University of East London are even using machine learning to predict which puppies are most likely to succeed as assistance dogs, reducing wasted time and resources. These innovations show how personalisation and feedback loops can transform outcomes for both dogs and owners.

Not my niece and not her dog.

Training has always been about patience and consistency. What AI brings is a new layer of feedback. Devices can detect whether a bark is playful, anxious, or defensive, and recommend different approaches depending on the context. Imagine a trainer fine-tuning lessons based on data rather than guesswork. For everyday owners, that means fewer frustrations and stronger bonds with their dogs.

Beyond obedience, AI may soon support emotional well-being. Tools such as the Nyckel Dog Emotions Identifier can interpret stress behaviours, suggesting calming activities. Apps might recommend tailored exercises depending on whether a dog is shy, excitable, or easily distracted. Over time, AI-driven insights could help reduce shelter returns by ensuring training is better matched to a dog’s personality.

Nutrition and Daily Care

Smart feeders like Petnet SmartFeeder and SureFeed adjust meals to a dog’s age, weight, and lifestyle. It’s personalised nutrition, driven by data. Some systems even learn feeding patterns over time, recommending adjustments to prevent obesity or malnutrition. Boarding facilities and pet hotels are adopting similar tools to ensure every dog in their care gets exactly what they need.

Nutrition is one of the most overlooked aspects of canine health. With AI, meal plans can be refined in real time. If a dog’s activity levels drop, the system can automatically reduce calories. If a puppy suddenly has a growth spurt, the feeder can adapt portion sizes to meet new needs. These subtle changes can make the difference between a dog struggling with health issues and one thriving for years longer.

The integration of nutrition data with health monitoring devices opens up even greater potential. For instance, if a smart collar notices reduced activity, the feeder could adjust portion size automatically. Over time, patterns could highlight potential conditions like arthritis or weight-related concerns, alerting the owner before they become severe.

Emergency Support

AI chatbots like those built into pet health apps already guide owners through first aid steps and help them decide when a vet visit is essential. Some systems even connect directly with veterinary professionals through telehealth platforms, bridging the gap when immediate care isn’t available. It’s technology working hand-in-paw with human expertise to deliver reassurance in stressful moments.

For people living in rural or remote areas, these services can be life-changing. A chatbot that can triage symptoms at midnight may mean the difference between waiting until morning or acting immediately. Owners gain clarity, and dogs receive care faster than ever before.

Looking ahead, AI-driven emergency care could evolve even further. Wearable devices might detect early signs of conditions like heatstroke or seizures and alert both owners and vets instantly. Combined with telehealth services, that could create a rapid-response ecosystem, making critical care available to every dog, no matter where they live.

Beyond the Basics

The next wave of AI dog tech goes further still. Emotion-detection tools may soon recognise stress or anxiety in dogs through facial expressions and vocal tones. AI-driven enrichment toys are being designed to adapt puzzles in real time, keeping pets mentally sharp. These developments remind us that AI isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about well-being and quality of life.

Other areas are on the horizon too: AI robots designed to provide comfort for anxious dogs, systems that can distinguish between boredom and cognitive decline in older pets, and toys that adjust challenges as a dog learns. Each step takes us closer to a world where technology supports not just physical health but also emotional resilience.

Another intriguing development is the rise of AI-powered pet companions. Robotic dogs like Sony’s Aibo and Tombot Jennie are being developed as therapeutic aids for both humans and animals. These robots could provide social engagement for lonely pets or even help alleviate separation anxiety when owners are away. While not a substitute for human interaction, they show how far technology could go in supporting overall well-being.

A Shared Lesson

From collars that track heartbeats to toys that keep tails wagging, AI is helping dogs live longer, healthier, and happier lives. The best results happen when technology supports, rather than replaces, the love and care only humans can give. International Dog Day is a reminder that our connection with dogs is timeless, but how we support them continues to evolve.

Conclusion

AI is not just changing how we monitor health or train puppies—it’s creating new ways to keep our companions safe, nourished, and emotionally supported. At the heart of it all is the bond between humans and dogs, strengthened when technology is used thoughtfully to give them the best chance at a happy life. As these tools become more affordable and widespread, their impact will only grow.

International Dog Day reminds us to celebrate not just the joy dogs bring into our lives, but also the new opportunities we have to care for them. The future of pet care isn’t about replacing human attention with devices—it’s about giving us better tools to be the caring, responsible companions our dogs deserve.

Also not my niece and not her dog. But.....Awww.

PS: At Mercia AI, we believe the same principle applies beyond pets. If AI can be a best friend to dogs, it can be a supportive partner for your business too. Discover how Mercia AI can be your best friend in AI.