Online Class: Dog Psychology 101

Explore the enigmatic canine psyche through this course, which goes beyond traditional training by examining dogs' thoughts, emotions, and social structures. Equip yourself with tools to better understand, train, and care for dogs at every stage of their life, transforming knowledge into a rewarding partnership.

Self-Paced, Online Class

Library Subscription

12

Lessons
20

Exams &
Assignments
6

Hours
average time
0.6

CEUs

Course Description

Are you a dog enthusiast, a proud pet owner, or simply curious about the intricate world of our four-legged companions? Dive deep into the fascinating realm of dog psychology with this comprehensive course, designed to unravel the mysteries of the canine mind. This is not just another course; it's a transformative journey into the heart and soul of every dog.

Our curriculum ventures beyond the superficial, laying bare the intricate tapestry of thoughts, senses, emotions, and behaviors that define dogs. Starting with an exploration of the essence of dog psychology, we'll navigate the profound corridors of their minds, delving into their acute senses, diverse personalities, temperaments, and intricate social constructs.

Why does your furry friend behave in a certain manner? What's the story behind that wagging tail, or those soulful eyes staring back at you? Equip yourself with the knowledge to decode dog aggression, understand their body language cues, and master effective training and discipline techniques.

But there's more. Discover the science of exercise tailored to dogs, learn the nuances of their developmental stages, and garner insights on caring for an aging canine companion. This course isn't merely about understanding dogs; it's about forging a deeper, more meaningful bond with them.

By embarking on this learning voyage, you're not just gaining academic knowledge. You're acquiring a toolkit that will profoundly enhance your personal and, if applicable, professional interactions with dogs. For those in canine-related professions, this course offers a distinct edge, enabling you to apply this knowledge for improved outcomes. And if you've ever felt apprehensive around dogs, this education serves as a bridge, transforming fear into familiarity and understanding.

Upon culminating this immersive course, you'll be armed with an integrated perspective on dogs. From selecting the perfect canine companion, fostering strong bonds, instilling new behaviors, to nurturing them in their twilight years - every stage of their life becomes a rewarding experience for both of you.

Join us on this enlightening expedition into the canine psyche. Let's deepen our connection with these incredible creatures, understanding them better, and in the process, discovering more about ourselves. Your journey into the world of dog psychology starts here!

Courses Frequently Bought Together:

Cat Care and Training 101

Areas of Study

Pet and Animal Care

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:

"Extraordinarily Helpful"

(4,441 votes)

Lesson 1. The Science of Dog Behavior

Dive into canine psychology to comprehend how dogs perceive their world, guiding your interactions and training methods for an enriched relationship. By understanding their fears, anxieties, and personality nuances, you can create a secure environment where dogs thrive as beloved companions. 17 Total Points

Lesson 1 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-1-HomeWork-11776.pdf
Lesson discussions: Dog Psychology Course; Reasons for Taking this Course
Assessment: Lesson 1 Review Exam

Lesson 2. Dog Intelligence 101

Dogs are intelligent beings with instincts and abilities comparable to a young child, displaying impressive problem-solving and learning skills while interacting with their environment. Their intelligence varies by breed, with some dogs mastering up to 1,000 words and excelling in roles such as service, police, and therapy dogs. 20 Total Points

Lesson 2 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-2-WorkSheet-11777.pdf
Assessment: Lesson 2 Review Exam

Lesson 3. How Dogs Perceive Their Environment

Dogs utilize their extraordinary sense of smell and exceptional hearing to navigate their surroundings, understanding their world in a way humans can't fully appreciate. Recognizing these sensory abilities aids in developing empathy and establishing more effective communication and companion roles. 21 Total Points

Lesson 3 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-3-HomeWork-11778.pdf
Complete: Lesson 3 Activity
Assessment: Lesson 3 Review Exam

Lesson 4. From Anxiety to Assurance: Helping Dogs Navigate Fear

Dogs communicate their fears through non-verbal cues such as a tucked tail and avoidance of eye contact, making it important for owners to recognize these signs to address anxiety. Techniques like counter-conditioning and offering a designated safe space can be effective in reducing fear responses in various situations. 21 Total Points

Lesson 4 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-4-HomeWork-11779.pdf
Complete: Lesson 4 Activity
Assessment: Lesson 4 Review Exam

Lesson 5. Dog Personality Insights

A dog's personality, governed by genetics and experiences, determines how it interacts with its environment and people. Understanding these traits facilitates better training approaches and enhances the human-dog relationship. 15 Total Points

Lesson 5 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-5-WordSearch-11780.pdf
Complete: Lesson 5 Activity
Assessment: Lesson 5 Review Exam

Lesson 6. Canines and Companionship: Dogs' Social Nature

Dogs are incredibly social creatures, thriving on interaction with humans and other animals, a trait influenced by breed and environment, which shapes their personalities and reactions. Establishing a clear social structure and consistent training helps dogs feel secure and minimizes behavioral issues. 20 Total Points

Lesson 6 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-6-WorkSheet-11781.pdf
Assessment: Lesson 6 Review Exam

Lesson 7. Understanding Dog Aggression

Dog aggression manifests in various ways, like growling or biting, prompting the need for early intervention. Utilizing strategies like consulting professionals and implementing desensitization helps curb these behaviors. 19 Total Points

Lesson 7 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-7-WordSearch-11782.pdf
Assessment: Lesson 7 Review Exam

Lesson 8. Positive Reinforcement: The Key to Effective Dog Training

Breed plays a crucial role in trainability, with highly trainable breeds like Border Collies thriving in obedience, while breeds like Dandie Dinmont Terriers pose more challenges. Despite differences, tailored training that respects individual personality and history achieves effective learning in all dogs. 17 Total Points

Lesson 8 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-8-Activity-11783.pdf
Complete: Lesson 8 Activity
Assessment: Lesson 8 Review Exam

Lesson 9. Unlocking Canine Emotions through Body Language

Research shows dogs excel at understanding human gestures, highlighting their evolved communication skills. Mastering cues like yawning or growling prevents misunderstandings and strengthens the dog-human connection. 20 Total Points

Lesson 9 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-9-Activity-11784.pdf
Lesson discussions: Body Language
Assessment: Lesson 9 Review Exam

Lesson 10. The Essence of Positive Dog Discipline: Teaching Instead of Punishing

This lesson outlines the importance of positive discipline in training dogs, emphasizing reinforcement of good behavior over punishment. By understanding and addressing common behavioral issues, owners can build trust and guide their dogs towards becoming well-behaved companions. 21 Total Points

Lesson 10 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-10-WorkSheet-11785.pdf
Complete: Lesson 10 Activity
Assessment: Lesson 10 Review Exam

Lesson 11. Workout and Play: Key to a Happy Dog

From energetic puppies to aging seniors, exercise meets the diverse needs of dogs, ensuring they remain fit and mentally sharp. Activities ranging from gentle walks to thrilling agility courses provide for their physical requirements while deepening connections with their humans. 15 Total Points

Lesson 11 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-11-WorkSheet-11786.pdf
Lesson discussions: Exercise
Complete: Lesson 11 Activity
Assessment: Lesson 11 Review Exam

Lesson 12. Boons of Canine Companionship: The Interplay of Psychology and Bonding

Armed with newfound understanding, selecting the right dog becomes more than just a choice of breed; it incorporates temperament, lifestyle compatibility, and long-term commitment. This thoughtful approach ensures a lasting and fulfilling relationship between dog and family. 74 Total Points

Lesson 12 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-12-WorkSheet-11787.pdf
Lesson discussions: What is your opinion of this course?; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course); Course Comments; Reasons for Taking this Course
Complete: Lesson 12 Activity
Assessment: The Final Exam
Assessment: Lesson 12 Review Exam

280

Total Course Points

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:

Demonstrate an understanding of canine body language, including interpreting ear positions and tail wags, to communicate more effectively with dogs
Recognize the behavioral triggers in dogs, such as separation anxiety or boredom, and implement effective strategies to address these behaviors
Demonstrate understanding of the different types of dog intelligence by identifying examples of instinctive, adaptive, and working intelligence in various breeds.
Describe how breed influences a dog's capacity for specific tasks by comparing the working roles of Border Collies, Poodles, German Shepherds, and other breeds.
Demonstrate an understanding of how dogs use their sense of smell to navigate the environment by identifying three specific examples from the lesson.
Describe how a dog's vision differs from human vision by listing two characteristics mentioned in the lesson.
Demonstrate knowledge of strategies to alleviate fear in dogs by applying techniques like gradual exposure and positive reinforcement in simulated environments.
Recognize signs of fear in dogs by identifying body language cues like ears back, tail tucked, and avoiding eye contact within given scenarios.
Demonstrate effective behavior modification techniques for shy dogs, including the use of positive reinforcement and desensitization, to build confidence and reduce fear.
Identify and describe at least three key personality traits of dogs, including responsiveness and shyness, and explain their impact on training and interactions.
Demonstrate techniques to manage separation anxiety and aggression in dogs using consistent training and socialization strategies.
Identify key social behaviors in dogs and explain how breed and environment influence these behaviors.
Recognize and describe the signs of canine aggression to intervene before the behavior escalates.
Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.

Additional Course Information

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Course Title: Dog Psychology 101

Course Number: 7550560

Lessons Rating: 4.4 / 5 Stars (4,441 votes)

Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries

Category:

UniversalClass.com > Pet and Animal Care > Dog Training

Availability: This course is accessible online throughout all states, including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. It's also available in top English-speaking countries like the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Last Updated: December 2023

CEU Value: 0.6 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)

CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).

Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.

Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Classes

Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams

Instructor: Cathleen Chouinard

Syllabus: View Syllabus

Student Testimonials

"I though this course was very helpful. Even after having dogs my whole life, I still picked up some pointers that I will definitely be working on." -- Diana D.
"I was very impressed with this course. It is my experience that any intro course should be somewhat difficult because of the many areas of study that need to be addressed. This course was both highly informative and pleasingly difficult." -- Richard N.
"I learned a lot in this course, I work with dogs and it is helping me to read the dogs body language. So thank you." -- Cynthia G.
"This course is a must for all dog owners & those that are thinking of becoming one. This course should be mandatory by all SPCAS before allowing anyone to own a dog." -- Tara F.
"This course has been amazing love the instructors they did an excellent job I recommend this course to anyone who wants to learn more about dogs great course." -- Corey A.
"The instructor was very prompt in grading and reviewing the lessons. never had to wait long to receive her response on my work. Very pleased with that !! Gave me the feeling that she was right there if I needed her assistance...very nice !!" -- Ginny J.
"Instructor was quick to get back to you and was very encouraging, and the course was extremely helpful and interesting! I took a previous course out of pure interest as I love law, but not applicable as I am canadian, but the Dog Psycholgy course was practical, super helpful and extremely interesting!" -- Michaela W.
"I found both the course and the instructor excellent." -- John H.
"Amazing course, best one I've taken about Dog Physiology." -- Lantz F.
"I really liked this course. The instructor was very helpful and responsive." -- Sandy G.