What Can Cognitive Tests Tell Us About Dogs?

by Jon Scaccia June 25, 2024

Understanding our furry friends is a never-ending adventure, full of wagging tails, curious sniffs, and sometimes perplexing behaviors. Recent research has delved into the connection between dogs’ cognitive abilities and their daily behaviors, shedding light on how our pets’ minds work. This study explores whether cognitive tests can reveal insights into dogs’ everyday lives with their owners, providing valuable information for dog owners, trainers, and enthusiasts alike.

The Study: Linking Cognitive Tests and Daily Behavior

Scientists have long been interested in understanding the cognitive traits of dogs. These traits include social cognition, inhibitory control, and logical reasoning. While numerous studies have focused on these cognitive abilities in controlled settings, there’s been limited research on how these traits correlate with dogs’ daily behavior. The goal of this study was to bridge that gap, exploring how cognitive test results can predict and explain dogs’ behaviors at home.

Researchers used two well-established questionnaires, the Canine Behavioural Assessment and Research Questionnaire (C-BARQ) and the Dog Impulsivity Assessment Scale (DIAS), to gather data on dogs’ daily behaviors from their owners. They also conducted a series of cognitive tests on nearly 1,000 dogs, including the Cylinder Test for inhibitory control and the Unsolvable Task for social cognition.

Key Findings: Cognitive Traits and Behavior

The results of the study were fascinating, showing clear links between cognitive test results and owner-reported behaviors:

1. Inhibitory Control and Trainability: Dogs that performed well in the Cylinder Test, demonstrating high inhibitory control, were rated by their owners as more trainable and less impulsive. These dogs were also slower to solve the V-detour task, indicating a measured approach to problem-solving.
2. Social Cognition and Fear: The Unsolvable Task, which measures dogs’ tendency to seek human help, revealed that dogs exhibiting more human-directed behavior were seen as more trainable but also more fearful of strangers. This suggests that dogs with strong social cognition might be more reliant on their human companions, especially when feeling insecure.
3. Logical Reasoning and Learning Speed: Dogs that struggled with the Logical Reasoning task were reported to be slower learners. This highlights the importance of logical reasoning abilities in adapting to new tasks and learning from experiences.
4. Impulsivity and Behavior Problems: Dogs with lower inhibitory control, as shown in the Cylinder Test, had higher scores on the DIAS for impulsivity. These dogs also had more behavior problems, such as pulling on the lead, stealing food, and chewing forbidden items.

Implications for Dog Owners

These findings offer practical insights for dog owners and trainers. Understanding a dog’s cognitive abilities can help tailor training methods to individual needs. For example, dogs with lower inhibitory control might benefit from exercises that focus on impulse control and patience, while dogs with strong social cognition might need reassurance and gradual exposure to new people and environments to build confidence.

Furthermore, recognizing the links between cognitive traits and behavior problems can help owners address issues more effectively. For instance, impulsive dogs might need structured routines and clear boundaries to reduce undesirable behaviors.

The Broader Picture: Enhancing Dog-Owner Relationships

The study underscores the potential of cognitive tests in enhancing our understanding of dogs’ behavior and personality. By predicting how dogs might behave in various situations, these tests can help improve the bond between dogs and their owners. Better understanding leads to better communication, training, and overall wellbeing for our canine companions.

What do you think? Let us know in the comments!

1. How can understanding your dog’s cognitive abilities change the way you approach training and daily interactions?
2. What strategies have you found effective in managing impulsive behaviors in your dog?

Unlock Science Secrets:

Discover revolutionary research and innovative discoveries with ‘This Week in Science’! Designed for educators and science lovers, our free weekly newsletter offers insights that can transform your approach to science. Sign up now and deepen your understanding and passion for science.

About the Author

Dr. Jonathan P. Scaccia, PhD, is a clinical-community psychologist with expertise in public health science and practice. He has led evaluation and research initiatives focusing on health equity, vaccine distribution, and organizational readiness. Dr. Scaccia has contributed to federal suicide prevention programs and vaccine equity strategies. He has been recognized for his impactful work and is a leading voice in advancing public health practices.