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.
The Truth About Cats and Dogs
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.8
(2,340 reviews)
16 hours to complete
3 weeks at 5 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
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Assessments
14 assignments
Taught in English
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There are 5 modules in this course
In week 1, we provide 'an insight into cats and dogs behaviour: through their eyes'. We will explore cats and dogs of the world and ask you what you cat and dog mean to you, as well as what you feel is important to your cat and dog. At the end of the week, you will be able to complete the first of the graded quizzes. We hope you enjoy the MOOC as much as we have enjoyed making it!
What's included
10 videos5 readings2 assignments5 discussion prompts
In week 2, we will we explore ethology, which is the scientific and objective study of non-human animal behaviour, rather than human behaviour, and usually with a focus on behaviour under natural conditions. There will also be an opportunity to look at different breeds of cats and dogs and some of the possible issues that arise from breeding. At the end of the week, you will be able to complete the second of the graded quizzes.
What's included
8 videos2 readings5 assignments2 discussion prompts
In week 3, we aim to explore cat and dog sensory capabilities and how they interact with their world. We will explore how our cats and dogs communicate with us and each other. We will also examine how their specific senses work and how they use these to operate effectively such as to solve problems, hunt, and play. At the end of the week, you will be able to complete the third of the graded quizzes.
What's included
7 videos3 readings3 assignments1 discussion prompt
In week 4, we explore the domestic environment and how our cats and dogs adjust to this (or not). We will also discuss what behaviours may arise due to the unrealistic expectations that we may impose on our pets. The videos this week, will help you recognise the signs of fear, frustration, and anxiety, as well as other behavioural problems in cats and dogs. At the end of the week, you will be able to complete the fourth graded quiz.
What's included
9 videos2 readings3 assignments2 discussion prompts
In the final week of the course we want to reflect on what we have learned so far and start to consider how we can make changes. In doing so, improving our beloved cats and dogs lives for the better, for example through enriching their environment, training, and appropriate care at all stages of their lives (from kittens/puppies through to old age). At the end of the week, you will be able to complete the fifth and final of the graded quizzes.
What's included
8 videos6 readings1 assignment2 discussion prompts
Instructors
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4.8 (627 ratings)
Offered by
Recommended if you're interested in Animal Health
The University of Edinburgh
Duke University
University of North Texas
University of Colorado Boulder
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