Design and Implementation of an Arduino-Based Ultrasonic Device for Humane Dog Repellent

Dogs can pose a nuisance and danger to people in residential areas through barking and territorial behaviour, causing discomfort and safety concerns. Dogs and humans both possess hearing capabilities, but dogs can detect ultrasonic frequencies that humans cannot perceive. This enhanced auditory sensitivity makes dogs responsive to high-frequency acoustic stimuli. In this paper, preliminary field observations of an Arduino-based ultrasonic dog deterrent device are presented to explore frequency response patterns in free-roaming dog populations. A frequency-based approach represents a potentially more environmentally safe alternative compared to traditional chemical repellents. This research presents observational data from field testing of a portable prototype that incorporates an Arduino Uno microcontroller, an ultrasonic transducer, and an amplifier to generate adjustable high-frequency sound waves. The microcontroller enables frequency control across the 38 to 42 kHz range to emit an ultrasonic sound that dogs respond to without physical harm. The device is portable, offers frequency adjustability, and is capable of field deployment. Based on the observations from forty encounters with stray dogs, the response rates increased across the frequency range. Across the frequency range, 42 kHz showed the highest observed response. These findings suggest that ultrasonic deterrent applications show promise. Further research is needed to confirm the effectiveness and optimal deployment parameters.