The Truth About Cats and Dogs

Software > Computer Software > Educational Software The University of Edinburgh

Course Overview

What You'll Learn

  • 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.
  • This MOOC explores different scientifically validated methods that can help you to better understand your pet, to enrich their lives and help you to be a more educated and confident pet owner.
  • Learners can apply for Financial Aid directly with Coursera to assist with the cost of accessing the full course and gaining a certificate for successfully completing the course.

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. This MOOC is divided into five topics, the appliance of science; behaviour and body language, senses and perception; challenges for the human-animal relationship, including pet problem behaviour; and how to improve the quality of life for cats and dogs in our care. At the start of the course we ask you to consider what you feel is important to your cat/dog and what your cat/dog means to you? We explore the world of cats and dogs and how our relationships with them vary around the world and have changed over time. We ask if we can really know what our animals are thinking or trying to communicate through their facial expressions and behaviours. From our beloved pets to street dogs, shelter dogs/cats and welfare challenges, we explore the world from their perspective and examine how their genetic make-up may influence their behavioural responses and choices. We dispel common behavioural myths by looking through a scientific lens, asking questions about the function and development of their behaviour.. We explore how their senses help them to interact with their world and how they communicate with each other and us! Finally, we ask whether we impose unrealistic expectations on our cats and dogs and how this affects their ability to live alongside us. We ask, what can we do to be more responsible pet owners and to ensure the welfare of all cats and dogs in society? This MOOC explores different scientifically validated methods that can help you to better understand your pet, to enrich their lives and help you to be a more educated and confident pet owner. Learners can apply for Financial Aid directly with Coursera to assist with the cost of accessing the full course and gaining a certificate for successfully completing the course.

Course FAQs

Is this an accredited online course?

Accreditation for 'The Truth About Cats and Dogs' is determined by the provider, The University of Edinburgh. For online college courses or degree programs, we strongly recommend you verify the accreditation status directly on the provider's website to ensure it meets your requirements.

Can this course be used for continuing education credits?

Many of the courses listed on our platform are suitable for professional continuing education. However, acceptance for credit varies by state and licensing board. Please confirm with your board and {course.provider} that this specific course qualifies.

How do I enroll in this online school program?

To enroll, click the 'ENROLL NOW' button on this page. You will be taken to the official page for 'The Truth About Cats and Dogs' on the The University of Edinburgh online class platform, where you can complete your registration.