Can animals rationalize complex problems that are beyond the spectrum of instincts?

Answer 1

I have a lab who figured out how to unlock his crate from the outside. He was not taught it.

I also have his son with us, they never fight, growl or do anything remotely aggressive, but when the older lab want the bone the younger is chewing on or maybe wants to go on the couch where the younger is, he looks out the front door and will begin barking. The younger one of course wants to see what is going on. As soon as the younger is on the way, the older runs to get what he wants.

So on his own, he figured out a mechanical problem and how to create a diversion for a dog. I would say this is pretty complex.

Answer 2

I heard that crows drop nuts in the street and wait for cars to run them over, then they fly back down and eat them. I would say that's figuring something complex out... for a bird of course!

~Sarahybethy

Answer 3

Octopi can open jars, dogs can be taught tricks, horses can be ridden, animals can be tamed - they're all beyond instincts, but I don't think they can rationalise them, nor are they particularly complex.

Answer 4

I think so. I have one dog that has learned to open and close doors and I have another dog who knows how to undo the latch on a cage (she drove the vet nuts)!

Answer 5

There have been problem solving tests run on squirrels in England. They can solve all sorts on things if it leads to food

Answer 6

Depends on the animal.

Answer 7

Yes, because they try to "train" us to do what they want, they try to comfort us when we are sick, they try to shuttle us up to bed when they want to go to sleep and they think we are up too late. They try to open doors and use furniture to climb up on.They try to entertain us. Instrincts are mostly about food, sex and survival issues.