Canine Science Course Level 3 – Endorsed

Learners will complete 6 units of study in total as listed below.

6 tutor marked assignments to complete

UNIT 1: EVOLUTION AND DOMESTICATION OF THE CANINE

• The evolution from Canis lupus to Canis familiaris
• The domestication of the canine
• The diversity of Canis familiaris
• Common genetic disorders in the dog

UNIT 2: SIMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES BETWEEN DOGS AND WOLVES

• Why humans have required certain characteristics in dogs
• The major similarities between dogs and wolves
• The anatomical differences between dogs and wolves
• The importance, advantages and disadvantages of selective breeding

UNIT 3: COMMON CANINE BEHAVIOURS AND HOW DOGS LEARN

• Commonly seen dog behaviours and compare with the wolf
• The importance of canine communication
• How understanding dog behaviour enhances the training process
• The history of dog training

UNIT 4: CANINES IN SOCIETY

• The roles of the canine in society since known domestication
• The changing role of the dog in society
• The importance of dogs as pets
• The importance of working dogs

UNIT 5: CORRECT NUTRITION

• The purpose of good nutrition
• The digestive tract and impact of poor nutrition
• The need for breed-specific nutrition and breed-size-specific nutrition
• The importance of correct life-stage nutrition

UNIT 6: ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY OF THE CANINE SPECIAL SENSES

• The function and role of the special senses
• The adaptation of the special senses
• The differences between sight and scent hounds
• Anatomical and possible behavioural problems associated with the special senses

Learners will be required to complete a series of tutor marked assignments ( normally 1 after each unit) as they progress through this course. Each assignment will contain a variety of tasks/questions. These assignments are assessed by your tutor to monitor progress. You will be provided with constructive feedback to help you in completing each unit to the required standard.