Hobbies And Interests
Toy
Many people keep a robot dog as a pet. It may mimic many of the behaviors of an ordinary dog; most emit a bark, move and can stand and sit. Some offer voice recognition capabilities and, therefore, can recognize their owner's voice. Owners can program some robot dogs on a personal computer, and some robot dogs can even take pictures.
Military Equipment
Some robot dogs can move as fast as 4.4 mph and traverse hills, rubble and mud. Built to travel where wheeled transport cannot, they carry loads for humans, such as for military personnel. Powered by a special internal combustion engine, such robot dogs can stand, squat, walk and trot. They require a human operator, however.
Toxic Materials Detector
Researchers throughout the world have re-purposed toy robot dogs to help search for toxic waste. Outfitted with sensors and improved limbs, the robot dogs help humans locate toxins such as benzine. Before use, researchers outfit the robots with improved limbs, extra memory and communications equipment. Robot dogs that find toxins roll over and play dead or play the national anthem.
Fictional Character
Many science fiction books and dramas feature robotic dogs. The book "Fahrenheit 451" features a Mechanical Hound sent to hunt and kill fugitives from an authoritarian regime. "Doctor Who," a television series about a time-traveling adventurer, possessed a portable robotic dog named K-9 that nearly became the subject of a spin-off series.