The beloved exhibition Dogs! A Science Tail has returned to the California Science Center, offering visitors a fresh opportunity to explore the extraordinary relationship between humans and dogs. First developed by the Science Center in 2019, the hands-on, interactive exhibition is now open and free to the public.
Through a dynamic mix of sensory activities and immersive displays, the exhibit highlights how dogs perceive the world through smell, hearing, and sight—while also showcasing how science is helping us better understand our canine companions.
Experience the World Through a Dog’s Senses
Guests can step into a dog’s paws with a wide variety of hands-on activities. Visitors can:
- Hear hidden sounds that only dogs can detect
- Dig up fossil replicas to distinguish wolves from early dogs
- Walk through an interactive neighborhood exploring how pets support community
- Compete in “Jeopawdy!”—a dog-themed trivia game inspired by Jeopardy! and hosted on screen by the late Alex Trebek
Other highlights include testing your running speed against a dog’s, examining dog-human job partnerships, engaging with virtual dogs, and experiencing the world as a dog through sensory simulations.
A Celebration of Interspecies Connection
“Dogs! A Science Tail explores the powerful connection between dogs and humans, while examining their extraordinary traits and abilities,” said Jeffrey Rudolph, President and CEO of the California Science Center. “There is so much we can learn from dogs—how they restore our calm, strengthen communities, and live up to their title as man’s best friend.”
The exhibit was created in collaboration with the Annenberg Foundation and Wallis Annenberg PetSpace, with national tour support from PetSmart Charities®, the leading funder of animal welfare in North America.
Share Your Story — But Leave Pets at Home
While personal pets are not permitted inside the Science Center—with the exception of ADA-compliant service dogs—visitors are encouraged to digitally share their favorite photos and stories on the exhibition’s interactive sharing wall.
Visit Information:
Dogs! A Science Tail is now open at the California Science Center. Admission to the exhibition is free. For more information, visit californiasciencecenter.org.
