Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda cover image

Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda

Brian Hare and Vanessa Woods: How to Raise a Great Dog

Nov 5, 2024
Brian Hare, a Duke University professor specializing in canine cognition, and Vanessa Woods, a research scientist and co-author of *Puppy Kindergarten*, delve into the fascinating world of dog training. They discuss the characteristics that pinpoint potential service dogs from an early age. Listeners learn about the essential cognitive traits like memory and self-control that enhance a dog’s behavior. With humor and heartwarming anecdotes, they share effective training techniques and insights on fostering the unique bond between humans and dogs.
39:39

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Cognitive development in puppies, including memory and self-control, is essential for identifying potential service dogs during their early training stages.
  • Engaging puppies in structured games significantly enhances their developmental skills and communication, crucial for successful service dog training and owner bonding.

Deep dives

Understanding Puppy Development

Cognitive development in puppies is crucial for training them as service dogs, and researchers have begun exploring when important skills first emerge. Key abilities such as memory, self-control, and understanding human communication develop at specific times, and this knowledge aids in identifying which puppies show potential for service work. For instance, young puppies start to grasp the significance of eye contact and responding to human gestures almost immediately, showing a level of social understanding unique to dogs. By studying these cognitive milestones, trainers can better assess a puppy's likelihood of becoming a successful service dog.

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