ABSTRACT
A basic background in learning theory is critical for the understanding of canine olfaction. Recent research in olfaction emphasizes the importance of experience and learning on how olfactory stimuli are processed and perceived (Wilson and Stevenson 2006). The aim of this chapter is to provide a brief review of basic concepts in learning theory and explore phenomena that have been tested across a wide variety of species and sensory domains (including visual, auditory, as well as olfactory) indicating that the processes are generalizable across species. We will then extend these principles to olfactory learning tasks. Throughout we will highlight the small but growing literature that explores canine olfactory learning, and will highlight the implications of basic behavioral research for working odor-detecting dogs.
