A human-like EEG signature of cognitive control in the domestic dog

In humans, theta (θ) band activity (defined as 4-8 or 5-7 Hz), measured over the frontal midline of the scalp, is an important EEG correlate of voluntary and conscious self-control. Theta waves specifically reflect the workings of the frontal lobes, and can therefore be useful in distinguishing cortical from more ancient control mechanisms. In dogs, inhibitory self-control is extensively studied, but mostly through behavioural tests. Here, we present a first inquiry into a possible EEG correlate of cognitive control in the domestic dog, by comparing short (∼30-second-long) EEG recordings from two conditions: passive wakefulness (baseline) versus a delayed gratification challenge (test). Both were recorded alternating, under similar conditions for each dog within the same session. In total, we collected and analysed 226 short recordings from fourteen dogs. Within and across animals, we found an increase in activity (test > baseline) that resembles human cognitive theta in frequency range (5-7 Hz) and scalp localization. Our results are a first demonstration that frontal midline theta in awake dogs can peak under similar conditions to those in humans. These findings indicate that compliant behaviour in dogs is under prefrontal control.