Cognitive Testing in Dogs: Long-Term Memory and Puzzle Feeders

Abstract

This study explores long-term memory in domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) using puzzle feeder tasks to evaluate problem-solving retention over time. Nineteen dogs participated in two sessions spaced one month apart, where they interacted with five different puzzle feeders designed to vary in complexity. Each session was recorded and coded for interaction types and solution times. Results showed that 14 out of 19 dogs solved at least one puzzle, and paired sample t-tests revealed a statistically significant reduction in solution time during the second session (p = 0.001), suggesting memory retention of the puzzle-solving strategies. These findings support the hypothesis that dogs possess long-term memory capabilities relevant to spatial and problem-solving tasks. Future research will examine how personality traits may influence memory performance in dogs