A barking dog seldom bites! But this e-dog (electronic dog) is more lethal in dealing with thieves when its master is away or fast asleep.

A person from Thalasseri, near Kannur in Kerala, has developed a cost effective e-dog, which barks when someone entered the compound. Besides, it will automatically switch on the lights outside and catch their movements through hidden cameras. Those inside the house can watch it through a television set.

According to P K Pradeep Kumar, who developed the system, infra-red sensors fitted on top of the house catches the movements outside up to a range of 90 metres. Once a movement is detected, the e-dog barks for a minute. The owner can also stop the barking with a remote control.

The system, which works on electricity, costs around Rs 4,500. It also functions on rechargeable batteries for four days. Kumar got full support from the police for its promotion and was even exhibited at the police pavilion at a carnival at Thalasseri. The police are using this device in Sabarimala and Guruvayoor temples for security measures.