FAQ

No formal training is required in order for your dog to participate! Our main objective is to better understand canine cognition, meaning we want to know how dogs think, rather than how dogs perform. In a typical session, we will use simple commands such as a sit, stay, release and recall – or your variants of these commands.

Of course! However, we run single dog sessions, so we can give each dog our undivided attention, so you would need to book two separate appointments. If you wish to bring in your dogs for back to back sessions, we recommend bringing a second person to hang out with the dog who is not participating.

Other than you and your pooch, we ask that you bring a flat collar or a harness with a back clip attachment, proof of rabies (if not emailed to us prior) and some high value treats if your dog is a picky eater/has allergies.

Each session typically lasts 30 – 60 minutes.

We use high reward treats like dried beef liver, but you may also bring your own treats if that is what you prefer. It is important that the treats are something your dog would be excited to receive!

This is completely fine, a lot of dogs we have visit our lab are shy, and this can be expected in unfamiliar environments! The initial visit we book is for us to get to know your dog and for them to get to know us, and develop a sense of comfort at their own pace! We want your dog to feel as safe and comfortable as possible, and also to have fun! If your dog is nervous at any time during any of our studies, we can always take breaks, bring them outside for fresh air, and stop the study if needed.

Since we are studying canine cognition as a whole, there are no right or wrong answers! Our research is aimed at discovering how dogs as a species think. With that being said, we are happy to send you copies of any publications that come out of our research.

It may seem strange, but there are no right or wrong answers from your dog! Whatever they choose in our session is useful information, as it shows us how their brains work. They may not always choose the option with the treat, but each time they make a choice they’re doing great!

Most dogs enjoy the novelty of interacting with the toys and playing with the experimenters. You and your dog will also be making a substantial contribution to improving our understanding of dog cognition, which can lead to improvements in future dog training, animal welfare efforts, and enhanced research abilities.

Yes, but we typically only allow for one person to accompany the dog into the actual testing room. It could also get very distracting for your dog if surrounded by their people while they are trying to take part in the studies. By minimizing distractions, we are setting your dog up to be as comfortable as possible and for them to have better focus for the studies. If anyone does accompany you and your dog to our research space, they can sit in our waiting room and observe your dog through a live-stream on our TV!

Unfortunately, we do not do any training. We play short interactive games with your dog so your dog can find some treats and hopefully have fun!

At any given time, we are scheduling 1-3 weeks ahead, and there will typically be a delay of 2-4 weeks between questionnaire submission and when we are able to send you a link to sign up for the initial visit. Thanks for your patience!