Learning, in both humans and dogs, relies on top-down control, a mechanism by which the prefrontal cortex inhibits impulses and eliminates incorrect movements to refine a skill.

noli's read

Science strongly supports this idea: top-down control is a fundamental pillar of behavioral regulation. Major literature reviews in cognitive neuroscience, such as those by Miller and Cohen, demonstrate that the prefrontal cortex guides our actions by actively inhibiting irrelevant signals and movements. In dogs, a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study conducted by neuroscientist Gregory Berns highlighted that a specific area of their prefrontal cortex is activated precisely to restrain physical impulses during an effort of self-control. While this explanation centered on inhibition is quite accurate, overall motor learning is not limited to it: it also relies on positive brain plasticity (which reinforces the correct movement) and on other brain regions to coordinate the whole process. Andrew's explanation is therefore scientifically very solid and offers an excellent interpretative framework for anyone seeking to refine their focus, habits, or physical skills.

the sources

No named source held this one up — that absence is part of the verdict.