The Truth About Cats and Dogs

  • 4.8
Approx. 16 hours to complete

Course Summary

This course explores the fascinating world of cats and dogs, including their behavior, biology, and evolution. From the basics of pet ownership to the latest research on animal cognition, this course provides a comprehensive introduction for animal lovers everywhere.

Key Learning Points

  • Understand the scientific principles behind cat and dog behavior
  • Learn how to care for your pet’s physical and emotional needs
  • Discover the latest research on animal cognition and communication

Related Topics for further study


Learning Outcomes

  • Understand the science behind cat and dog behavior
  • Develop a deeper appreciation for animal cognition and communication
  • Learn practical tips for caring for your pets

Prerequisites or good to have knowledge before taking this course

  • An interest in animal behavior and biology
  • Basic knowledge of scientific principles

Course Difficulty Level

Beginner

Course Format

  • Online
  • Self-paced
  • Video lectures
  • Quizzes and assignments

Similar Courses

  • Animal Behavior and Welfare
  • Canine Science: Introduction to Dog Behavior
  • Feline Science: The Behavior and Biology of Cats

Related Education Paths


Notable People in This Field

  • Cat Behaviorist
  • Dog Trainer

Related Books

Description

What is your cat revealing to you when she purrs? What is your dog expressing when he yawns or wags his tail? Understanding your cat and dog’s behaviour and the way they communicate with you, will enable you to better understand their needs and strengthen your relationship with them.

Outline

  • The Appliance of Science
  • Welcome and meet the team
  • Introduction to week 1
  • Cats in the World
  • Dogs in the World
  • Dogs, cats and humans
  • Voxpops - what our cats & dogs mean to us
  • Unrealistic expectations for animals to cope with unnatural situations - part 1
  • Responsibilities of pet owners
  • Responsibilities of the Veterinary Profession
  • Voxpops - what's important to our cats and dogs
  • How To Use This Course
  • Statement of Ethics
  • Overview: week 1
  • Ask the experts - audio response
  • Additional Resources
  • Sentient beings
  • Week 1 assessment
  • Ethology
  • Introduction to week 2
  • Dog domestication
  • Dog Ethology
  • Breeds and their uses
  • Alpha Dog
  • Ethology and Domestication
  • Genetics of a Cat
  • Ask the experts - video response
  • Overview: week 2
  • Additional Resources
  • Test your knowledge: dogs
  • Test your knowledge: cats
  • Praising dogs
  • Cats and their environment
  • Week 2 assessment
  • Sense and Sensibility
  • Introduction to week 3
  • Feline body language
  • Cat intelligence: hunting, problem solving, play and human Intelligence
  • Dog senses
  • Canine Communication
  • Dog Intelligence
  • Ask the experts - video response
  • Overview: week 3
  • Video references: Cat intelligence: hunting, problem solving, play and human Intelligence
  • Additional Resources
  • Happy/content cats
  • Happy/content dogs
  • Week 3 assessment
  • Living with humans
  • Introduction week 4
  • Is love enough?
  • unrealistic expectations for animals to cope with unnatural situations - part 2
  • Problems for our pets – what is the their experience?
  • Cat myths
  • Modern challenges for modern dogs
  • Dog Aggression
  • Street Dog
  • Ask the experts - video response
  • Overview: week 4
  • Additional Resources
  • Anxious/scared cats
  • Anxious/scared dogs
  • Week 4 assessment
  • Can We Do Better? Improving Pet Quality of Life
  • Introduction week 5
  • Dog training - an interview with Alasdair Bunyan
  • Socialisation and training
  • Pets aren't people
  • Old age is not a disease
  • It's a Dog's Life Project
  • Cats in the clinic
  • Ask the experts - video response
  • Overview: week 5
  • Puppy Power: Developing a puppy socialisation plan for lifelong health and welfare (part 1)
  • Puppy Power: Developing a puppy socialisation plan for lifelong health and welfare (part 2)
  • Podcast - How we can do better
  • Additional Resources
  • Course survey
  • Week 5 assessment

Summary of User Reviews

Get ready to learn all about cats and dogs with this engaging course on Coursera. Students have praised the course for its comprehensive coverage and engaging material. Many appreciate the hands-on learning experience that the course offers.

Key Aspect Users Liked About This Course

The hands-on learning experience

Pros from User Reviews

  • Comprehensive coverage of the subject matter
  • Engaging and informative material
  • Hands-on learning experience
  • Expert and knowledgeable instructors
  • Flexible scheduling options

Cons from User Reviews

  • Some students found the pace of the course too slow
  • The course may not be suitable for those with advanced knowledge of the subject
  • Limited interaction with instructors and other students
  • Technical issues with the online platform reported by some users
English
Available now
Approx. 16 hours to complete
Miss Hayley Walters, RVN, Dr Heather Bacon, Professor Nat Waran, Dr Amy Miele
The University of Edinburgh
Coursera

Instructor

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