Dog Emotion and Cognition from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Course Information

Dog Emotion and Cognition is a course designed to introduce the exciting new science of dog psychology to any level of dog enthusiast. In learning about dogs you will be introduced to evolutionary and cognitive theory, learn about experimental methodology, see how dogs compare to other species, and even have the chance to try some of the cognitive games you learn about with your own dog. The course is a great introduction to the field of animal cognition and animal behavior but is also relevant to anyone interested in human evolution or even dog training. When you finish you will think about your dog in a new way, will be ready to apply your new knowledge, and will be prepared to take higher level classes in the evolutionary or cognitive sciences.

The Paradox of a Best Friend That Evolved From Our Worst Enemy

This module will provide an introduction to cognitive psychology and evolution, while having direct application to your dog. At the beginning of each lecture, Dr. Hare will suggest an optional reading from his book The Genius of Dogs, as well as free Dognition games to play at www.dognition.com/mooc. Dr. Hare discusses how our evolutionary relationship with dogs is a puzzle. He describes the meaning of cognition and what it looks like with modern research on animals. Last, he discusses what Dognition is and how can be used like a laboratory for the class.

How Biology Studies Cognitive Evolution

In this module, Dr. Hare describes how the internal processes of the mind are studied through experiments. He explains how animal problem solving is best explained as scientists work toward better understanding the topic. Next, he describes the ecological approach to cognition through an evolutionary lens, which involves Tinbergen's four levels of analysis.

Dogs Are Cognitively Remarkable

In this module, Dr. Hare describes how dogs are cognitively remarkable. He begins by explaining theory of mind, which, when viewed through the ecological approach, suggests that social problem solving drove primate and human cognitive evolution. Next, he describes how good dogs are at understanding communicative intentions, especially compared to apes. Dr. Hare has three hypotheses to explain the remarkable communication found in domestic dogs.

Evolutionary Accidents and Survival of the Friendliest

In this module, Dr. Hare explores three of his research studies he's done with foxes, New Guinea Singing Dogs, as well as research on wolves. He describes how early dog-wolves may actually be a product of natural selection rather than artificial selection, contrary to popular belief. He introduces a hypothesis called Survival of the Friendliest, which may explain how dogs, bonobos, and modern species evolved in contrast to close relatives, such as wolves and chimpanzees. Last, he relates the high level of social tolerance of these species to human by looking at human self-domestication.

Problems That Dogs Can and Cannot Solve

In this module, you will learn about the genius of dogs. Brilliant examples of the canine mind will be explored. Dogs seem to be capable of inferential reasoning using the "principle of exclusion" as well as learning new words by imitating humans. Next, Dr. Hare discusses dog's abilities to understand physical problem solving compared to other species (hint, this isn't most dog's strong suit). Last, he will discuss how dogs are not cooperative breeders, do have a relaxed social system, and are excellent hunting companions for humans.

Finding Your Dog's Genius

In this module, Dr. Hare will discuss the common myths of breed differences and what research (including citizen science Dognition data) has actually been done to understand potential differences between breeds. You will also listen to Dr. Hare debunk "aggressive dog breed" stereotypes by learning about the literature and studies that have been done on dog aggression. He poses an interesting question about the actual culprit for the dog aggression problem, which is not even a dog! Next, he will explain how important understanding dog cognition is to training strategies. Dr. Hare will discuss how, unfortunately, not all cultures love dogs, and some see them as food and pests. He suggests ways that humans can live with dogs for mutual benefit. Taking all that you've learned into account, Dr. Hare then discusses how Dognition is revolutionizing what we know about dogs and how beneficial it could be to your relationship with your dog as well as for science!

Final Exam

The final exam covering topics from all modules.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores the intricacies of dog cognition, making it appealing to enthusiasts who want to delve deeper into canine psychology

Taught by Brian Hare, a renowned expert in dog cognition, enhancing the credibility of the course

Offers practical insights into strengthening the bond between humans and dogs, appealing to individuals seeking to enhance their relationships with their canine companions

Provides a solid foundation in evolutionary and cognitive theory, making it suitable for learners with diverse backgrounds

Covers a comprehensive range of topics, appealing to learners seeking a holistic understanding of dog psychology

Emphasizes the cognitive abilities of dogs, challenging common misconceptions and fostering a greater appreciation for their intelligence

Reviews summary

Educational dog course

Learners largely praise this in-depth course on dog emotion and cognition. Many highlight that the course helped them understand dogs better. Most of the lectures are described as interesting and well-explained, and learners find the exercises particularly valuable. However, a few learners found that the course was too focused on the instructor's materials. Overall, students who enjoyed this course would recommend it to anyone who wants to understand dogs better.

Exercises provide hands-on learning.

"I would have given it 5 stars if all the dognition exercises had been open to participants"

Lectures are interesting and well-explained.

"The class was interesting and it helped me to understand dogs better"

"Dr. Hare did a good job of explaining everything he taught every week"

Covers complex topics in detail.

"more in depth than I had thought"

"explores some of the cognition capabilities of dogs compared to other animals and to us"

"helped me to understand dogs better"

Course heavily features instructor's materials.

"I found quite annoying the continual shoving of the course author's book and site in the videos"

"a few lectures (and quizzes) were dedicated exclusively to them"

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Dog Emotion and Cognition with these activities:

Read <cite>Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know</cite>

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Read a renowned researcher's reflections on the cognitive life of dogs. This will provide a solid basis for conceptualizing the topics in this course.

View The Year of the Puppy: How Dogs Become... on Amazon

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Go to the library or find it online
Read each chapter
Reflect on the insights provided

Revisit your notes and assignments before each module

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Consistent review of covered material will help you retain information and enhance your understanding.

Browse courses on Dog Psychology

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Review notes and assignments from previous modules

Organize a dog behavior study group with other learners

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Engage in collaborative learning with fellow students to deepen and broaden your understanding of the course material.

Browse courses on Dog Psychology

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Send out a message to your fellow students
Create a schedule for regular study sessions
Share relevant course materials
Facilitate discussions on course topics
Work together on practice questions and activities

Four other activities

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Show all seven activities

Test your knowledge of dog behavior with online quizzes

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Reinforce your understanding of dog behavior patterns to support your learning in the course.

Browse courses on Dog Psychology

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Search for online quizzes on dog behavior
As you find quizzes, take them
Review your answers for feedback
Use quizzes as study aids

Explore dog behavior case studies from renowned researchers

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Gain insights into real-world applications of dog behavior knowledge to support your theoretical understanding.

Browse courses on Dog Psychology

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Search for dog behavior case studies online
Select case studies from reputable researchers
Read and understand the case studies
Summarize the key findings and implications
Share your findings in a class forum or with a study group

Keep a dog behavior journal

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Cultivate a habit of observing and recording dog behaviors, enriching your understanding of course concepts.

Browse courses on Dog Psychology

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Create a journal or use an app for recording dog behavior
Make observations and jot down notes on behavior patterns
Include the date, time, and location of the observed behavior
Review the collected data regularly to identify common behaviors
Share your insights on a dog behavior forum or with a veterinarian

Create infographic on dog behavior patterns

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Synthesize your knowledge of dog behavior and present it in a visually appealing and concise format to aid comprehension.

Browse courses on Dog Psychology

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Organize the information from the course and your research
Choose the appropriate visual format for the infographic
Design a visually appealing infographic
Incorporate relevant data and behavior examples
Share your infographic with classmates or on social media

Career center

Learners who complete Dog Emotion and Cognition will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Service Dog Trainer

Service Dog Trainers train dogs to perform tasks for people with disabilities. These tasks can include providing mobility assistance, retrieving objects, and providing emotional support. Dog Emotion and Cognition may be useful for Service Dog Trainers who want to learn more about dog behavior and cognition so that they can better train dogs to meet the needs of their clients.

See salaries and explore the career path for Service Dog Trainer

Dog Breeder

Dog Breeders breed and raise dogs for various purposes, such as companionship, show, or work. They select breeding stock, care for the dogs, and socialize the puppies. Dog Emotion and Cognition may be useful for Dog Breeders who want to learn more about dog behavior and cognition so that they can better care for their dogs and breed healthier, happier dogs.

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Canine Massage Therapist

Canine Massage Therapists provide massage therapy to dogs to help relieve pain, improve circulation, and promote relaxation. Dog Emotion and Cognition may be useful for Canine Massage Therapists who want to learn more about dog behavior and cognition so that they can better understand the needs of their canine clients.

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Veterinary Technician

Veterinary Technicians assist Veterinarians with a variety of tasks, such as taking vital signs, administering medication, and preparing animals for surgery. Dog Emotion and Cognition may be useful for Veterinary Technicians who work with dogs, particularly those who work with dogs with behavioral problems.

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Pet Sitter

Pet Sitters provide care for pets while their owners are away. They feed, walk, and play with the animals, and they may also administer medication or provide other services. Dog Emotion and Cognition may be useful for Pet Sitters who work with dogs, particularly those who work with dogs with behavioral problems.

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Animal Shelter Worker

Animal Shelter Workers care for animals in shelters, including dogs, cats, and other animals. They clean cages, feed the animals, and provide basic medical care. Dog Emotion and Cognition may be useful for Animal Shelter Workers who work with dogs, particularly those who work with dogs with behavioral problems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Animal Shelter Worker

Dog Walker

Dog Walkers walk dogs for a living. They may also provide other services, such as feeding and playing with the dogs. Dog Emotion and Cognition may be useful for Dog Walkers who want to learn more about dog behavior and cognition so that they can better care for their canine clients.

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Veterinarian

Veterinarians diagnose and treat diseases, injuries, and other health problems in animals. They also perform surgeries, prescribe medications, and provide advice on animal care. Dog Emotion and Cognition may be useful for Veterinarians who work with dogs or who want to specialize in canine medicine.

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Pet Groomer

Pet Groomers bathe, brush, and trim the fur of dogs and other pets. They may also provide other services, such as nail clipping and ear cleaning. Dog Emotion and Cognition may be useful for Pet Groomers who work with dogs, particularly those who work with dogs with behavioral problems.

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Animal Behaviorist

Animal Behaviorists conduct research to better understand animal behavior and use this research to make the lives of animals better. Animal Behaviorists are often called on for advice about training and taking care of pets, and they also play important roles in animal conservation, wildlife rehabilitation, and other fields. Dog Emotion and Cognition may be useful for someone who works with dogs, such as Animal Behaviorists who specifically work with dogs or who work in a zoo or animal shelter that cares for dogs.

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Animal Trainer

Animal Trainers work with animals to teach them how to behave. This can involve training animals for companionship, obedience, or specific tasks, such as working as service animals. Dog Emotion and Cognition may be useful for Animal Trainers who work with dogs or who wish to specialize in training dogs.

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Ethologist

Ethologists study the behavior of animals in their natural habitats. They conduct research to better understand how animals interact with each other and their environments. Dog Emotion and Cognition may be useful for Ethologists who study the behavior of dogs or other canids.

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Wildlife Rehabilitator

Wildlife Rehabilitators care for sick, injured, or orphaned wild animals. They provide medical care, food, and shelter, and they release the animals back into the wild when they are healthy enough. Dog Emotion and Cognition may be useful for Wildlife Rehabilitators who work with dogs or other canids.

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Conservation Scientist

Conservation Scientists work to protect endangered species and their habitats. They conduct research to better understand the threats facing these species, and they develop and implement plans to help them recover. Dog Emotion and Cognition may be useful for Conservation Scientists who work with endangered dog breeds or who study the behavior of wild dogs.

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Zoologist

Zoologists study animals and their behavior in the wild. They conduct research to better understand how animals interact with each other and their environments. Dog Emotion and Cognition may be useful for Zoologists who study the behavior of dogs or other canids.

See salaries and explore the career path for Zoologist