Dog Emotion and Cognition

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/dog-emotion-and-cognition

Introduction

### Course Review: Dog Emotion and Cognition on Coursera In the ever-evolving realm of canine companionship, understanding our furry friends goes beyond mere affection; it delves into the intriguing world of dog psychology. Coursera’s **Dog Emotion and Cognition**, taught by esteemed expert Dr. Brian Hare, opens the door to this fascinating field, bringing together the latest research in animal cognition and emotional intelligence. This course is a remarkable opportunity for anyone from casual dog owners to dedicated professionals in animal behavior. #### Overview and Objectives Dog Emotion and Cognition is designed to shed light on the psychological landscape of dogs, exploring how they think and feel. The course aims to enhance the human-animal bond by providing insights that can lead to improved training, communication, and overall understanding of our canine companions. By the end of the course, participants will walk away with a newfound perspective on their dogs, equipped with practical knowledge that can apply to everyday interactions and beyond. Whether you're interested in the scientific aspects of animal behavior or simply wish to better connect with your pet, this course has something to offer. #### Syllabus Breakdown **Module 1: The Paradox of a Best Friend That Evolved From Our Worst Enemy** The opening module dives into evolutionary psychology, providing context for our relationship with dogs. It introduces cognitive psychology concepts through engaging reading materials and interactive games available on Dognition. Dr. Hare expertly positions the cognition of dogs within the framework of evolutionary history, setting the stage for deeper exploration. **Module 2: How Biology Studies Cognitive Evolution** Here, the course shifts gears to explore how cognitive processes are studied scientifically. Dr. Hare presents methods used in animal cognition research while tying in evolutionary theories. This academic perspective is enlightening, making complex ideas accessible even to those unfamiliar with scientific jargon. **Module 3: Dogs Are Cognitively Remarkable** This module will have dog lovers buzzing with enthusiasm as Dr. Hare presents evidence of dogs’ exceptional cognitive abilities. Engaging discussions around communication skills and social understanding highlight what sets domestic dogs apart from other species. This module invites reflections on how these traits influence dog-human interactions. **Module 4: Evolutionary Accidents and Survival of the Friendliest** Delving into Dr. Hare's innovative research, this module offers a deeper understanding of domestication and its nuances through compelling case studies involving foxes and wolves. It challenges preconceived notions about how and why dogs evolved to be our companions, introducing the compelling hypothesis of “Survival of the Friendliest.” **Module 5: Problems That Dogs Can and Cannot Solve** This section focuses on the problem-solving prowess of dogs, emphasizing their unique abilities and limitations. Dr. Hare provides captivating examples of canine intelligence, nurturing an appreciation for dogs' distinct cognitive skills and showcasing their potential through engaging anecdotes. **Module 6: Finding Your Dog's Genius** In the final content module, the course shifts to practical applications. Dr. Hare addresses misconceptions surrounding breed behavior, discussing the importance of understanding individual dog cognition for effective training. The expert also touches on cultural perceptions of dogs globally, leading to insightful discussions on humane interactions. **Final Exam** The course concludes with a comprehensive exam that brings together all the learned concepts, solidifying knowledge and encouraging participants to reflect on their journey through the various modules. #### Recommendation I highly recommend **Dog Emotion and Cognition** to anyone passionate about dogs or interested in animal psychology. Dr. Hare’s engaging style and expertise make complex concepts digestible. The course not only enriches your understanding but fosters a deeper appreciation for canine companions. The structure is well-balanced between theoretical insights and practical applications, encouraging you to engage with your own dog through newly acquired knowledge. Whether you aspire to become a dog trainer, a veterinarian, or just want to enjoy a better relationship with your pet, this course will undoubtedly enhance your insights and skills. Enrolling in this course is a fun, educational investment that will change the way you view and interact with your beloved four-legged friend. As you dive into this engaging and thought-provoking course, prepare to build a stronger, more empathetic bond with your dog—because understanding is the first step toward connection.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

The final exam covering topics from all modules.