The Psychology of Dogs

Dogs were the first animals humans domesticated, and for over 30,000 years, they’ve been by our side through every major turning point in history. They’ve been with us before agriculture, before the Bronze Age, and in every corner of the world. Historically, they helped us hunt, herd livestock, and keep us safe. Today, their roles have expanded—they work as service animals, scent detectors, and loyal emotional support companions. More than just pets, dogs help us navigate daily stress and even life’s biggest challenges. Sometimes, they seem to understand us better than we understand each other. But do we always understand them?

This talk will explore some of the most common questions about dogs: How do they learn and interpret the world? How do they relate to other dogs? What do they think and feel about us? What truly makes them happy? And what do we do—often unknowingly—that causes them stress?

Doors open at 7pm, talk starts at 7.30pm.

Dr Jon Bowen is a veterinary surgeon who has been working with dogs and cats with behaviour problems for more than 25 years. He runs the behavioural medicine referral service at the Royal Veterinary College, where he also lectures on behaviour, and he has published research papers and book chapters on a diverse range of subjects including normal and problematic cat and dog behaviour, the social support people get from their pets, and the welfare of pets. He is a regular speaker at international meetings.

Presented by Seed Talks

This is an 16+ event