CDT Canine Behavior & Psychology 2

Question 1

A dog that has been punished for growling at strangers and now bites without warning is an example of which behavioral concept?

Accepted Answer

Suppression of warning signals

Answer

Punishing growling removes the dog's warning signal, making biting more likely and more sudden since the dog skips earlier threat displays.

Question 2

Which developmental period in puppies is characterized by the greatest sensitivity to social bonding with humans?

Accepted Answer

Socialization period (3–12 weeks)

Answer

The socialization period (3–12 weeks) is the prime window when puppies form lasting social attachments to humans and other species.

Question 3

A dog circles and sniffs extensively before eliminating. This behavior is best explained as:

Accepted Answer

An instinctive pre-elimination ritual tied to ancestral den safety

Answer

Pre-elimination circling and sniffing are ancestral instincts related to checking the environment for threats and selecting an appropriate spot.

Question 4

In the context of canine stress, what is 'calming signal' theory primarily associated with?

Accepted Answer

Turid Rugaas's observations of dog-to-dog communication

Answer

Turid Rugaas coined the term 'calming signals' to describe subtle dog-to-dog and dog-to-human communication behaviors that reduce tension.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes 'resource guarding' from a behavioral science perspective?

Accepted Answer

A behavior maintained by positive reinforcement when guarding succeeds

Answer

Resource guarding is maintained by positive reinforcement — the dog's behavior (guarding) is rewarded when the threat retreats, increasing future guarding.

(CDT) Certified Dog Trainer Practice Test

(CDT) Certified Dog Trainer Practice Test

CDT Canine Behavior & Psychology 2