I’ve recently come to understand new dimensions of cognition by doing a deep dive into research on dogs. Canine study labs are turning up convincing evidence that dogs think, feel, process language, problem solve, remember, plan, dream – even love – much like human beings do. Understanding these faculties are not the sole property of humans, but are in fact shared by many beings, has me to understand them anew in myself. And to feel much less alone on my journey over this earth.
In this post I highlight a bit of this research. I also give an overview of an October 2024 online class, open to all, I’m teaching through the University Of New Mexico. The course will take up the inner lives of dogs and highlight aspects of our unique interspecies bond. Learn more about the class and register to join us here. My co-faculty and I believe this offering will be a special treat. We hope that you’ll come, sit and stay.
Hi Daniel,
I took your class in 2017-18 and have enjoyed your posts and following you over the years on the TEAM list serve.
This topic is of great interest to me, as I not only grew up with a German Shepard which was integral to my childhood, but over the last 20 years have had the privilege of working with 2 amazing and beautiful guide dogs, both of whom transformed my life and enabled me to lead an independent, full life; a purebred golden named Bill and a lab golden cross, named Faith whom I sadly lost this past April too young due to a MCT disease. I have some guilt over the fact that she did not enjoy the suspenseful shows we watched. My previous guide dog used to howl when he was excited. They both definitely could feel and process. I am now applying for a new guide dog and would love to understand more about their cognition! I’ve always found this field fascinating and intriguing!