Comparative Cognition and Behavior in Companion Animals: Theory to Application

This advanced course explores comparative cognition and behavior in companion animals,

focusing on the cognitive abilities of dogs and cats. Drawing from experimental research and

real-world applications, students will learn to design behavioral studies, analyze data using

R/SPSS, and interpret animal responses in the context of environmental and evolutionary

influences. With a balance of theory and practice, the course emphasizes translational

insights for product development, animal welfare, and scientific communication. Ideal for

advanced undergraduates, postgraduates, and PhD students, this interdisciplinary program

prepares participants to apply behavioral science in both academic and industry settings.

Instructor : Dr. Muhzina Shajid Pyari (LinkedIn)

Senior researcher at Maueyes (PhD, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary)

Pre-requisites

Basic knowledge of animal biology and behavior (e.g., completion of an introductory course in zoology, ethology, or animal physiology)
Foundational understanding of the scientific method and experimental design
No prior experience with companion animal behavior is required—curiosity and engagement are the most important prerequisites.

Advanced undergraduate, postgraduate (MSc), and PhD students in:

Module 1: Introduction to Comparative Cognition in Companion Animals (1.5 hours)
- Definitions and principles of cognition in animals
- Evolutionary underpinnings: dogs vs. cats
- Why study animal cognition?
- Applications in welfare, product design, and industry
Module 2: Experimental Design in Animal Cognition Research (1.5 hours)
- Fundamentals of experimental design
- Problem-solving paradigms
- Field vs. lab-based designs
Module 3: Data Collection and Behavioral Analysis (1.5 hours)
- Ethogram development
- Observational techniques and data annotation
- Activity : Cognitive task video analysis and discussion
Module 4: Cognitive Flexibility and Environmental Influence (1.5 hours)
- Predatory play and environmental shaping in cats
- Differences in raising and keeping conditions
- Dogs vs. cats: A comparative approach to flexibility
- Activity : Discussion of research from doctoral or Master's work
Module 5: Scientific Communication (1.5 hours)
- Presenting research for different audiences
- Publishing strategies and common pitfalls
- Careers in academia vs. industry for behavioral scientists
- Activity : Student mini-presentatios on mock product proposals or experimental results

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