By applying a little imagination about what it might be like to live in a scent-based world, we can better appreciate dogs’ cognitive abilities. For instance: dogs do not recognize themselves in mirrors, which had been thought to indicate that they don’t possess self-awareness. But Dr. Horowitz has
demonstrated that dogs do recognize changes in their own smell, demonstrating “perhaps something somewhat like self-awareness,” she told me.
training is something you can do at home and most dogs love it.”
carefully, instead of presuming that you know what they want or know,” Dr. Horowitz told me. “And they learn what we want or know best from our being consistent and clear when we ask things of them. Give them new challenges and expose them to new places and activities.” Channeling Dog Sports Dog sports are a great way to foster good canine-human communication while exposing dogs to plenty of new situations and challenges. Dr. Mary Burch, the director of the AKC Canine Good Citizen Program and a certified applied animal behaviorist, told me: “The best advice I could give dog owners who want to keep their dogs mentally active and enhance their cognitive abilities is to get involved with some kind of training activity with your dog. Agility, Rally, Obedience, Trick Dog, Therapy Dog work, Scent Work, and AKC FIT DOG are just a sample. Trick
Your dog’s breed can be a helpful guide to choosing the best sport for him, since breeds were created for specific purposes. For example, Dr. Burch notes, since the Border Collie is a herding dog, herding stimulates them physically and intellectually, whereas terriers, which were bred to hunt underground, often enjoy Earthdog. Most importantly, approach your dog with curiosity and a healthy dose of imagination. You’ll be surprised about how much you learn. Article gathered from https://www. akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/ dog-cognition-dogs-are-smarter- than-you-think/
How to Nurture Your Dog’s Cognitive Abilities
Since dogs’ experiences are so scent-based, one of the best ways to nurture your dog is to indulge his or her nose. “My favorite mantra these days is ‘let them sniff,’” Dr. Horowitz told me. “It’s important to let them investigate the world with their noses.” Dr. Horowitz and fellow canine behavior researcher Dr. Charlotte Duranton have even found that dogs who are allowed to sniff have a more optimistic approach to the world. Besides allowing them plenty of freedom to sniff, how else can dog owners keep their pets mentally stimulated? Experts consulted by the American Kennel Club agreed: it’s all about communication. “Your dogs are constantly communicating with you — watch their behavior
Missouri Pet Breeders Association | Page 27
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