Analysis of the spatiotemporal dynamics of behavior in domestic dogs with free locomotion under appetitive Pavlovian contingencies

Spatiotemporal dynamics of behavior is key to understanding the organism-environment relationship. While often implicitly addressed, its relation to Pavlovian contingencies remains understudied in domestic dogs. This study quantitatively examined the spatial dimension of behavior of three freely moving dogs under pairing and extinction of a tone-food Pavlovian contingency. In pairing, a tone (CS) was paired with food delivery (US) on a fixed-time 60-second (FT 60 s) schedule; in extinction, only the tone was presented. Locomotion was recorded using two-dimensional tracking based on center of mass. During pairing, dogs moved closer to the dispenser, covered greater distances, displayed extended trajectories, and showed a conditional approach pattern to the dispenser during CS presentation. In extinction, they stayed closer to the owner or room periphery, traveled shorter distances, and exhibited more restricted trajectories. These findings show that spatial segments (dispenser area) are integrated into the CS-US relationship, demonstrate the usefulness of continuous recording of spatial behavior in the analysis of Pavlovian contingencies, and suggest potential application in contexts relevant to animal welfare. HighlightsO_LISpatial behavior remains largely unexplored in studies of Pavlovian contingencies C_LIO_LIDog locomotion was continuously tracked during pairing and extinction phases C_LIO_LIDistinct spatial patterns emerged across pairing and extinction phases C_LIO_LIIncorporating space into CS-US relations clarifies behavioral organization C_LIO_LITracking tools expand the experimental and applied scope of Pavlovian research C_LI