FOCUS:
Robotics · Pet Tech · Emotional Support
ROLE:
Innovation Strategist · UX Strategist · Prototyper
DELIVERABLES:
Prototype · User Validation · Pricing Insights
CONTEXT:
Early Concept Validation · In-Home Testing
Prototyping Emotional Support for Dogs – A Strategic Design Approach
Designing a Teleoperated Robot to Support Remote Dog-Owner Connection and Anxiety Co-Reduction
Impact at a Glance
Many dog owners feel guilty or worried about leaving pets home alone. For dogs, prolonged separation can lead to anxiety-driven behaviors. We set out to create a robotic solution that enabled emotional connection and play—even when the owner couldn’t be physically present.
Innovation Strategist · Product Strategist · UX Researcher · Rapid Prototyping
I led product strategy, co-conducted user research with pet owners, and managed iterative prototyping cycles. I contributed to testing and translating user feedback into actionable design shifts.
concept_ideation.
This project began with an investigation into unmet needs in pet care, particularly around emotional support for dogs left alone during the day. Secondary research encompassing human-pet-computer interaction (HPCI), human-robot interaction (HRI), animal-robot interaction (ARI), human-pet interaction, and teleoperated robotics was reviewed. I conducted early market scans, competitive audits, and market size analysis to assess existing solutions and identify whitespace. Through exploratory research and whiteboarding, I mapped out the interplay between human routines, pet stress relief, and potential technological interventions. Early insights pointed toward the importance of play and real-time remote interaction. These sessions shaped the foundational product vision: a low-friction, emotionally attuned device that supports both pet well-being and owner peace of mind. Iterative validation of prototypes occurred through in-home interviews.
Before initiating design, I validated the product’s pricing potential using a Van Westendorp pricing analysis, revealing a viable willingness to pay.
I also identified indirect competitors (e.g., baby monitors, security systems, Petcube, Petzi) and a notable gap in direct competitors, helping confirm market feasibility and strategic positioning as an autonomous and interactive play + comfort technology for dogs with anxiety.
Pet owners with anxious dogs were nearly twice as likely to want to buy technology to help their pets (40%), and were willing to spend more on average, compared with those with non-anxious dogs (even those with other negative emotions, i.e., sadness).
The design phase prioritized simplicity, durability, and emotional resonance. I led the development of two distinct prototypes: one focused on remote control functionality (including movement, sound, and camera), and the other optimized for tactile and sensory responsiveness. Throughout the iterative process, I facilitated testing sessions with pet owners and their dogs, using qualitative feedback and observational data to refine form factor, interaction modes, and usability. Adjustments were made to ensure safety, pet engagement, and alignment with owners’ expectations. These prototypes not only tested core functionality but also helped shape the roadmap for multisensory upgrades and more expressive behavioral design.
Anxious dog, anxious owner
Owners who had more anxious dogs reported having more anxiety themselves. This suggested that this product may also reduce human separation anxiety.
Durability and safety were non-negotiable
The robot needed to withstand chewing, pawing, and collisions—functionality couldn’t come at the expense of safety.
Remote interaction builds emotional comfort
Even limited interactivity (seeing, hearing, moving) helped dogs and owners feel connected, reducing emotional stress.
Aesthetics matter for human buyers
Owners didn’t just want function—they wanted a product that fit their home and aligned with their values as caregivers.
Movement needs to feel natural
Erratic or fast movement caused discomfort. Dogs responded best to slow, predictable movement patterns.
Voice interaction was highly requested
Owners wanted to soothe pets using their voice, creating a sense of presence despite physical absence.
Designing for interspecies interaction is humbling
Real-world behavior rarely matches assumptions. Dogs’ responses were shaped by subtle cues we couldn’t always anticipate.
Pet owners are emotionally driven consumers
They care deeply about their pets and seek to alleviate their separation anxiety — and their own.
User testing must account for both user types
Dogs and humans had different needs: both mattered. Balancing cross-species interaction was key to product viability.
