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In what sense are dogs special? Canine cognition in comparative context
Stephen E G Lea1, Britta Osthaus2
1Department of Psychology, University of Exeter, Washington Singer Laboratories, Exeter, EX4 4QG, UK. s.e.g.lea@exeter.ac.uk.
Learning & Behavior
|September 26, 2018
Summary
Dog cognition research has advanced significantly. This review argues that understanding dog cognition requires viewing dogs phylogenetically, ecologically, and anthropogenically, revealing their cognitive abilities are not exceptional.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive ethology
- Comparative psychology
- Animal behavior
Background:
- Recent decades show a surge in dog cognition research across various domains.
- Understanding canine cognition requires a contextual framework.
Purpose of the Study:
- To contextualize current understanding of dog cognition.
- To propose a multi-perspective approach for assessing canine cognition.
Main Methods:
- Review and synthesis of existing literature on dog cognition.
- Comparative analysis of dog cognition with related species (canids, social hunters, domestic animals).
- Examination across cognitive domains: sensory, physical, spatial, social, and self-awareness.
Main Results:
- Dog cognition is shaped by phylogenetic (canid), ecological (social hunter), and anthropogenic (domesticated) influences.
- Comparisons with wolves, cats, hyenas, primates, cetaceans, equids, and birds provide context.
- Current evidence suggests dog cognition is not exceptional when considering these multiple influences.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive understanding of dog cognition necessitates integrating phylogenetic, ecological, and anthropogenic perspectives.
- Comparative studies reveal that dog cognition is influenced by its evolutionary and domestication history.
- When viewed through these integrated lenses, canine cognition appears typical rather than extraordinary.
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