A study published in Animal Cognition identified six key markers of executive function in dogs, many of which overlap with the structures associated with human cognition. These include the ability to follow instructions, control physical impulses and use working memory.
The study also found that dogs from breeders had higher levels of executive function than those from shelters, and that training is the key factor in the development of executive function.
Source: Vet Practice Magazine, July 13, 2022. Link.
A pet dog learns to control its impulses much like a child does; it inhibits its urge to chew the furniture or bark at visitors, it can remember routines and do what its owner says.” – Maike Foraita