The Puppy Perspective

Dogs, Canis familiaris, communicate with humans to request but not to inform

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 22:44:00 +0000

Dog communication motivation

Juliane Kaminski, Martina Neumann, Juliane Bräuer, Josep Call, Michael Tomasello

Dogs, Canis familiaris, communicate with humans to request but not to inform

Animal Behaviour, Volume 82, Issue 4, October 2011, Pages 651–658

ABSTRACT

Dogs are especially skilful at comprehending human communicative signals. This raises the question of whether they are also able to produce such signals flexibly, specifically, whether they helpfully produce indicative (‘showing’) behaviours to inform an ignorant human. In experiment 1, dogs indicated the location of an object more frequently when it was something they wanted themselves than when it was something the human wanted. There was some suggestion that this might be different when the human was their owner. So in experiment 2 we investigated whether dogs could understand when the owner needed helpful information to find a particular object (out of two) that they needed. They did not. Our findings, therefore, do not support the hypothesis that dogs communicate with humans to inform them of things they do not know.

Size communication in domestic dog, Canis familiaris, growls

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 22:41:00 +0000

Size Communication in Dogs

A.M. Taylor, D. Reby, K. McComb

Size communication in domestic dog, Canis familiaris, growls

Animal Behaviour, Volume 79, Issue 1, January 2010, Pages 205–210

ABSTRACT

In many species, body size is a key determinant of the outcome of agonistic interactions, and receivers are expected to attend to size cues when assessing competitors' signals. Several mammal vocalizations, including domestic dog growls, encode reliable information about caller body size in the dispersion of formant frequencies. To test whether adult domestic dogs attend to formant dispersion when presented with the growls of their conspecifics, we played recordings of resynthesized growls where the size-related variation in formant frequency spacing was manipulated independently of all other parameters. Subjects from three different size groups (small, medium and large dogs) were presented with playbacks of growls where formant frequencies had been rescaled to correspond to a dog 30% smaller or 30% larger than themselves. While large dogs systematically displayed more motivation to interact when growls simulated a smaller intruder, small dogs did not respond differentially to the playback conditions. However, the small dogs responded significantly less than all other size groups to both playback conditions. Our results suggest that domestic dogs are able to perceive size-related information in growls, and more specifically that they are able to adapt their behavioural response as a function of the perceived intruder's size relative to their own.

Social eavesdropping in the domestic dog

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 22:37:00 +0000

Canine Eavesdropping

S. Marshall-Pescini, C. Passalacqua, A. Ferrario, P. Valsecchi, E. Prato-Previde

Social eavesdropping in the domestic dog

Animal Behaviour, Volume 81, Issue 6, June 2011, Pages 1177–1183

ABSTRACT

Eavesdropping on third-party interactions has been observed in a number of species and is considered an important source of information in decision-making processes relating to fighting and mate choice. Human beings, however, use publicly available information flexibly in many different contexts including assessing others’ altruistic tendencies, which may in turn inform their choice of the most appropriate cooperative partner. We assessed whether dogs, Canis familiaris, were capable of discerning a generous versus selfish food-sharing interaction between humans, and investigated which communicative cues (voice versus gestures) may be more salient for them. Importantly a control condition was included to ascertain whether it was in fact the interaction between individuals as opposed to the direct actions of the actors that the dogs evaluated. We found that the dogs were capable of eavesdropping on human food-sharing interactions, and vocal communication was particularly important to convey the human’s cooperative versus noncooperative intent.

Breeding dogs for beauty and behaviour: Why scientists need to do more to develop valid and reliable behaviour assessments for dogs kept as companions

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 16:59:00 +0000

Effects of Breeding for Looks Rather than Behavior

Tammie King, Linda C. Marston, Pauleen C. Bennett

Breeding dogs for beauty and behaviour: Why scientists need to do more to develop valid and reliable behaviour assessments for dogs kept as companions

Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Volume 137, Issues 1–2, February 2012, Pages 1–12

Abstract

In the past, dogs were bred to perform specific utilitarian roles. Nowadays, the dog's most common role is that of human companion. Our world has changed dramatically since the first dog breeds were developed, yet many of these existing breeds remain popular as companions. While dogs kept as companions can provide a range of benefits to humans, in some cases the relationship between dog and human can be tenuous or even dangerous. Many dogs exhibit behaviours their owners consider undesirable and these dogs may cause disruption and injury to humans and other animals. As a consequence, many are relinquished to shelters. It is proposed that some of this unsuitable behaviour may be the result of inappropriate dog-owner matching, made more likely by the general change in the role of dogs, from working dog to companion animal, coupled with a strong tendency for modern owners and breeders to select dogs primarily on the basis of morphological, rather than behavioural, characteristics. This paper highlights how roles for dogs have changed and the importance of taking physical health and behaviour, as well as perceived beauty, into consideration when breeding and selecting dogs as companions. The measurement of behaviour and limitations of existing canine behaviour assessments are discussed. Finally, it is suggested that scientific development of accurate behavioural assessments, able to identify desirable canine behavioural traits, would provide invaluable tools for a range of dog-related organisations.

A comparison of dog–dog and dog–human play behaviour

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 16:54:00 +0000

Dog-Dog vs Human-Dog Playing

Nicola J Rooney, John W.S Bradshaw, Ian H Robinson

A comparison of dog–dog and dog–human play behaviour

Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Volume 66, Issue 3, 29 February 2000, Pages 235–248

Abstract

In the popular literature, it is often assumed that a single conceptual framework can be applied to both dog–dog and dog–human interactions, including play. We have, through three studies, tested the hypothesis that dog–dog and dog–human play are motivationally distinct. In an observational study of dogs being walked by their owners (N=402), dogs which were walked together, and had opportunities to play with one another, played with their owners with the same frequency as dogs being walked alone. This finding was supported by a questionnaire survey of 2585 dog owners in which dogs in multi-dog households played slightly more often with their owners than dogs in single-dog households. The performance of dog–dog play does not, therefore, seem to suppress the dogs' motivation to play with their owners as would be predicted if they were motivationally interchangeable. In an experimental comparison of dog–dog and dog–human toy-centred play, the dogs were more likely to give up on a competition, to show and present the toy to their play partner, if that partner was human. When two toys were available, dogs playing with other dogs spent less time showing interest in both toys and possessed one of the toys for longer, than dogs playing with people. Overall, the dogs were more interactive and less likely to possess the object when playing with a person. We conclude that dog–dog and dog–human play are structurally different, supporting the idea that they are motivationally distinct. We therefore suggest there is no reason to assume that the consequences of dog–dog play can be extrapolated to play with humans.

Prevalence of intestinal parasites in pet dogs in the United States

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 16:52:00 +0000

Intestinal Parasites in Dogs

Susan E. Little, Eileen M. Johnson, David Lewis, Renee P. Jaklitsch, Mark E. Payton, Byron L. Blagburn, Dwight D. Bowman, Scott Moroff, Todd Tams, Lon Rich, David Aucoin

Prevalence of intestinal parasites in pet dogs in the United States

Veterinary Parasitology, Volume 166, Issues 1–2, 3 December 2009, Pages 144–152

Abstract

To determine the national, regional, and age-related prevalence of intestinal parasites in dogs presenting to veterinarians in the United States, we reviewed the results of examination via zinc sulfate centrifugal flotation of 1,199,293 canine fecal samples submitted to Antech Diagnostics in 2006. The most commonly identified intestinal parasites were ascarids (2.2%), hookworms (2.5%), whipworms (1.2%), Giardia (4.0%), and Cystoisospora (4.4%). With the exception of whipworms, intestinal parasites were more commonly identified in dogs less than 6 months of age (29.6% positive) as compared to those greater than 1 year of age (6.1% positive) although infections with each parasite considered were identified in all age classes of dogs. Hookworm eggs were most commonly identified in fecal samples submitted from dogs from the South (4.0% positive), whereas ascarid eggs and Giardia cysts were most commonly seen in samples from dogs from the West (2.8% and 6.3% positive, respectively). When compared to previous data from shelter dogs, the prevalence of intestinal helminths, particularly ascarids and hookworms, was greatly suppressed in pet dogs in the southern United States (90–91% reduction) and much less so in dogs in the West (52–78% reduction), perhaps due in part to the routine year-round use of monthly anthelmintics effective at controlling both heartworm infection and intestinal helminths in dogs in the South. Taken together these data indicate that intestinal parasites remain a common, important finding in dogs presenting to veterinary practices although in most of the country infection rates in pet dogs appear to be greatly reduced from the level reported from dogs in animal shelters.

Dog behaviour on walks and the effect of use of the leash

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 16:46:00 +0000

Is this really necessary?

Carri Westgarth, Robert M. Christley, Gina L. Pinchbeck, Rosalind M. Gaskell, Susan Dawson, John W.S. Bradshaw

Dog behaviour on walks and the effect of use of the leash

Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Volume 125, Issues 1–2, June 2010, Pages 38–46

Abstract

This paper describes how often pet dogs interact with other dogs, people and the environment, whilst being walked. Such interactions may involve aggression or the transmission of infectious disease. We also assessed the effect of the use of a leash as a modifier of these outcomes. In study one, the behaviour of pet dogs being walked in popular public walking areas was observed (286 observations). Interactions with people were much rarer than interactions with dogs. Multivariable modelling suggested that percentage duration spent sniffing the ground was associated with the UK Kennel Club Breed Type, and whether the dog was observed urinating. Gundogs were observed to sniff more than other breed types. In study two, dogs (n = 10) were filmed twice walking along a pre-defined route, alternately once on leash and once off leash, in order to assess the effects of leash use on interactions between the subject dog and any other dog or person encountered. Multilevel modelling suggested that if either dog was on the leash, then the likelihood of an interaction with a dog occurring was reduced. There was no evidence for statistical interactions between these variables, therefore the effect of the leash on one dog did not seem to be influenced by whether the other dog was on or off leash. We conclude that in circumstances where interactions need to be prevented, such as to reduce spread of infectious diseases during an outbreak, both dogs should be leashed.

Survey of the use and outcome of confrontational and non-confrontational training methods in client-owned dogs showing undesired behaviors

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 16:37:00 +0000

Confrontational Behavior Modification

Meghan E. Herron, Frances S. Shofer, Ilana R. Reisner

Survey of the use and outcome of confrontational and non-confrontational training methods in client-owned dogs showing undesired behaviors

Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Volume 117, Issues 1–2, February 2009, Pages 47–54

Abstract

Prior to seeking the counsel of a veterinary behaviorist many dog owners have attempted behavior modification techniques suggested by a variety of sources. Recommendations often include aversive training techniques which may provoke fearful or defensively aggressive behavior. The purpose of this study was to assess the behavioral effects and safety risks of techniques used historically by owners of dogs with behavior problems.

A 30-item survey of previous interventions was included in a behavioral questionnaire distributed to all dog owners making appointments at a referral behavior service over a 1-year period. For each intervention applied, owners were asked to indicate whether there was a positive, negative, or lack of effect on the dog's behavior, and whether aggressive behavior was seen in association with the method used. Owners were also asked to indicate the source of each recommendation. One-hundred-and-forty surveys were completed. The most frequently listed recommendation sources were “self” and “trainers”. Several confrontational methods such as “hit or kick dog for undesirable behavior” (43%), “growl at dog” (41%), “physically force the release of an item from a dog's mouth” (39%), “alpha roll” (31%), “stare at or stare [dog] down” (30%), “dominance down” (29%), and “grab dog by jowls and shake” (26%) elicited an aggressive response from at least a quarter of the dogs on which they were attempted. Dogs presenting for aggression to familiar people were more likely to respond aggressively to the confrontational techniques “alpha roll” and yelling “no” compared to dogs with other presenting complaints (P < 0.001). In conclusion, confrontational methods applied by dog owners before their pets were presented for a behavior consultation were associated with aggressive responses in many cases. It is thus important for primary care veterinarians to advise owners about risks associated with such training methods and provide guidance and resources for safe management of behavior problems.

Children and their pet dogs : How they communicate

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 16:34:00 +0000

Children and dogs

J.L. Millot, J.C. Filiatre, A.C. Gagnon, A. Eckerlin, H. Montagner

Children and their pet dogs : How they communicate

Behavioural Processes, Volume 17, Issue 1, July 1988, Pages 1–15

Abstract

The research of ethologists has provided a better understanding of the mechanisms, role and development of communication behaviour between young children and their peers. However, little is known about the communication systems between children and their pets. A study of these relational systems would be needed to understand how the child interacts with his whole environment.

The present study is based on the analysis of video tapes filmed during spontaneous interactions between children from 2 to 5 years of age with their pet dog (N = 45) in their home environment. Inventories were made of the child and dog behaviours during these interactions. The results have shown the different dog behaviours induced by the child and the different child behaviours induced by the dog. The links between these behaviours and the variables which characterize both partners (age, sex, etc.) were treated by factor analysis of correspondences. These data are discussed in relation to the behavioural inventories of children and dogs with their peers and conspecifics.

The Dog as a Model for Understanding Human Social Behavior

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 16:31:00 +0000

József Topál, Ádám Miklósi, Márta Gácsi, Antal Dóka, Péter Pongrácz, Enikő Kubinyi, Zsófia Virányi, Vilmos Csányi

Chapter 3 The Dog as a Model for Understanding Human Social Behavior

Advances in the Study of Behavior, Volume 39, 2009, Pages 71–116

Abstract

The traditional approach for studying the evolutionary emergence of human social cognition is based on comparisons with apes and monkeys as model species with a homologous relationship to other primates and humans. Recently, however, research interest has focused on other species offering analogous models for the evolution of human social cognitive abilities. Here we suggest that convergent social evolution in dogs can be used to model the early state of human social evolution, suggesting that functionally analogous forms of many traits of the human behavioral complex are present in dogs. We argue that the dog as a model species is unique among domesticated species because (a) many aspects of dog behavior are functionally analogous to the corresponding human traits, (b) socialization to humans is a natural process in dogs, (c) comparison with the ancestor is important for convergent modeling, and (d) the dog represents a natural experimental model for studying human behavior.

A friend or an enemy? Dogs’ reaction to an unfamiliar person showing behavioural cues of threat and friendliness at different times

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 16:29:00 +0000

Dogs and Strangers

Judit Vas, József Topál, Márta Gácsi, Ádám Miklósi, Vilmos Csányi

A friend or an enemy? Dogs’ reaction to an unfamiliar person showing behavioural cues of threat and friendliness at different times

Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Volume 94, Issues 1–2, October 2005, Pages 99–115

Abstract

Responsiveness of adult pet dogs (Canis familiaris) to an unfamiliar human was observed in two studies. Subjects were faced with an approaching woman (Stranger) who showed definite signs of friendliness and threat during alternate approaches. Observations consisted of two episodes: the Stranger either approached the dog in normal speed of walk while talking to it and finally petted it gently (Friendly approach episode) or she moved slowly and haltingly and looked steadily into the eyes of the dog without any verbal communication (Threatening approach episode).

In the first study 30 dogs of 19 different breeds were tested in the two episodes in a balanced sequential order. The dogs acted appropriately according to the different human behaviour cues. The order of the Friendly/Threatening approaches had no significant effect on the dogs’ responsivity.

In the second experiment 60 dogs of three breed groups (20 Belgian shepherds, 20 retrievers and 20 sled dogs) were first ‘greeted friendly’ and then approached ‘threateningly’ by the same Stranger. Results show significant breed specific differences in the responsivity when dogs faced an apparent switch of the human behaviour cues. Compared to retrievers and sled dogs, Belgian shepherds more frequently changed their response, showing passive or active avoidance or sign of aggression when approached threateningly.

While sex differences were not found, breed comparisons suggest that selective breeding (i.e. for hunting or shepherd work) influenced the dogs’ sensitivity to human social cues in different ways. Results also support the hypothesis that human influence (domestication) has led to extreme flexibility of the dogs’ situation-relevant behaviour while interacting with an unfamiliar human.

Attachment to humans: a comparative study on hand-reared wolves and differently socialized dog puppies

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 16:25:00 +0000

Attachment Theory, Hand-Reared Wolves

József Topál, Márta Gácsi, Ádám Miklósi, Zsófia Virányi, Enikő Kubinyi, Vilmos Csányi

Attachment to humans: a comparative study on hand-reared wolves and differently socialized dog puppies

Animal Behaviour, Volume 70, Issue 6, December 2005, Pages 1367–1375

Using the Strange Situation Test originally developed for testing the mother–infant relationship in humans, we compared the attachment behaviour of extensively socialized (hand-reared) dog, Canis familiaris, and wolf, Canis lupus, puppies towards their human caregiver with that of pet dog puppies of the same age. The experiment was designed to study whether (1) dog puppies as young as 16 weeks show attachment to a human caregiver, (2) extensive socialization by human caregivers affects attachment behaviour of dog puppies and (3) evolutionary changes (in the form of species-specific differences between wolf and dog pups) affect the emergence of dog–human attachment. We found a characteristic selective responsiveness to the owner in young dogs, similar to that observed in adults. This finding supports the view that puppies show patterns of attachment towards their owners. Extensive socialization had only a minor effect on the attachment behaviour in dog puppies, as the behaviour of pet dogs and hand-reared dogs was basically similar. However, we found a significant species-specific difference between wolves and dogs: both extensively socialized and pet dog puppies were more responsive to the owner than to an unfamiliar human participant, whereas extensively socialized wolves were not. Behavioural differences could be best explained by assuming that selective processes took place in the course of domestication (genetic changes) that are related to the attachment system of the dog.

Domestication is generally viewed as an evolutionary process controlled by human influence (Price 1984). The symbiotic relationship between humans and nonhuman animals entails adaptational demands, which create new conditions of selection for the species to be domesticated and thus might result in a wide range of genetic modifications. The dog has a long history of adaptation to the human environment ( [Vilá et al., 1997] and [Savolainen et al., 2002]), and it is widely assumed that the selection process during domestication may have altered not only their morphological traits but also their behaviour and behaviour control systems ( [Belyaev, 1979] and [Coppinger and Coppinger, 2002]).

Recent studies have suggested an unusual competence of dogs in social interactions with humans (cooperation: [Topál et al., 1997], [Naderi et al., 2001] and [Naderi et al., 2002]; social learning: [Kubinyi et al., 2003], [Pongrácz et al., 2003a] and [Pongrácz et al., 2003b]; communication: [Miklósi et al., 1998], [Miklósi et al., 2000], [Agnetta et al., 2001], [Soproni et al., 2001] and [Soproni et al., 2002]). However, to understand the significance of domestication-related changes in the behaviour of dogs, we need to compare dogs with wolves (Miklósi et al. 2004). In line with this, recent comparisons of the social cognitive skills in dogs and socialized wolves within the context of the interspecific relationship with humans have shed light on some genetic divergences at the behavioural level ( [Hare et al., 2002] and [Miklósi et al., 2003]). Compared with wolves, the dogs' preferential looking at the human in problem-solving situations and their superior performance in using human directional gestures support the existence of genetic predispositions related to the domestication process in the emergence of social cognitive abilities in dogs.

In general, it is widely accepted that the evolutionary emergence of social cognition is closely related to the ‘social field’ (Kummer 1982), which often presents more complex adaptational demands for the animal than do physical characteristics of the environment (Tomasello & Call 1997). One of the basic behavioural phenomena of social relationships is attachment. The evolutionary approach to function and mechanism suggests that attachment is one of the main behaviour organizing systems in parent–offspring relationships, and it is also claimed to be the basic organizational factor for any species' social structure leading to group formation (Bowlby 1958). Attachment is an asymmetrical social relationship between two individuals, which can be tested experimentally in choice situations such as the Strange Situation Test (SST) originally developed to study the mother–infant relationship in humans (Ainsworth & Wittig 1969). The paradigmatic element of this procedure is that separation from the caregiver in an unfamiliar environment evokes anxiety (which is manifested behaviourally in proximity seeking), while the activated attachment system upon reunion with the caregiver manifests in different forms of contact-seeking behaviours. Importantly, attachment behaviour is oriented mainly towards the caregiver, in the sense that there is a significant difference in the level of proximity and contact seeking, and in the effort made to maintain contact, between the caregiver and an unfamiliar person in the same novel situation. Adult dogs show specific patterns of attachment behaviour towards their owner in the SST ( [Topál et al., 1998] and [Prato-Previde et al., 2003]), suggesting a case of functional analogy (evolutionary convergence) to the human infant–parent attachment. Gácsi et al. (2001) reported that attachment develops rapidly: a short period of interaction with humans evoked attachment behaviour towards the handler in adult dogs that had been deprived of human contact (shelter dogs) and the dogs differentiated between their handler and a stranger in the same way as adult pet dogs did.

We designed a comparative experiment to investigate the attachment behaviour of hand-reared and extensively socialized wolf and dog puppies and pet dog puppies that had received a normal socialization regimen from their owners. We investigated whether (1) pet dogs' attachment to humans is observable in the SST as early as 16 weeks of age, (2) extensive socialization by human caregivers causes any change in attachment behaviour of dog puppies and (3) there are species-specific differences between wolves and dogs in their attachment behaviour to humans.

Although one might assume that the ability to show attachment behaviour to individuals of another species (humans) in adulthood is a unique feature of the domestic dog, despite much interest ( [Scott, 1963], [Scott, 1992] and [Ginsburg and Hiestand, 1992]), there has been no clear theory explaining the emergence of the phenomenon. By comparing the emergence of attachment behaviour to humans in dogs and socialized wolves tested by the same experimental method we can examine whether inheritance (genetic background) or environmental effects (rearing history) are more important.

Two hypotheses can be formulated. The socialization hypothesis suggests that attachment could develop mainly as a result of extensive hand rearing and individual socialization to the human social environment (i.e. enculturation) during the ‘critical period’ of socialization (Freedman et al. 1961). The domestication hypothesis, however, claims that there could have been specific genetic changes (in the attachment behaviour organizing system) that have emerged as the result of selective breeding for dependency and attachment to humans (see also [Hare et al., 2002] and [Miklósi et al., 2003] for similar explanations regarding communicative abilities in dogs). The socialization hypothesis predicts that hand-reared wolf and dog puppies will show similar forms of attachment behaviour to their human caregivers, whereas pet dog puppies, being less extensively socialized, will show less attachment to their owners. In contrast, the domestication hypothesis predicts species-specific differences in attachment behaviour to humans between wolves and dogs reared in the same way (i.e. dogs should show more specific attachment behaviour than wolves towards humans). These explanations are not mutually exclusive, however, and both of the hypothesized mechanisms could affect the behaviour phenotype.

Measuring attention deficit and activity in dogs: A new application and validation of a human ADHD questionnaire

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 16:22:00 +0000

ADHD Dogs

Judit Vas, József Topál, Éva Péch, Ádám Miklósi

Measuring attention deficit and activity in dogs: A new application and validation of a human ADHD questionnaire

Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Volume 103, Issues 1–2, March 2007, Pages 105–117

Abstract

Recently more evidence has been found that the dog could serve as a viable model for studying the evolutionary emergence and regulating mechanisms of human behaviour. This approach is of especial importance when someone wants to study the underlying mechanisms of such human behaviour disorders like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Using questionnaires is a widely accepted methodology in this field of human behaviour research and recently many reported parallel observations also on dogs (e.g. questionnaire analysis of temperament traits). However, the handicap of this line of studies is, that the psychometric properties (validity) of the animal questionnaires were rarely examined, therefore, the reliability of this methodology remains uncertain.

In the present paper a 13-item questionnaire assessing attention skills, impulsivity and motor activity in pet dogs was developed on the basis of a validated one used for evaluating ADHD related problems in children. The primary purpose of this study was to measure reliability and validity of the questionnaire in order to introduce a new method for studying behaviour problems related to attention skills and the levels of activity/impusivity in pet dogs.

The owners of a pet dog population (N = 220) of many different breeds (69) were involved in the study and the sample was balanced for the dogs’ age, gender and training/qualification. Internal and external validity of the questionnaire were analysed and results supported the relevance of the two subscales predetermined from the items of the questionnaire (inattention and activity–impulsivity). Comparisons of the inattention and activity–impulsivity scores of the different age-, gender- and training-groups showed significant effects of age and training on the attention skills in the dogs. Findings suggest that the application of human ADHD questionnaire (dog-ADHD rating scale) is a reliable and valid method of assessing attention skills and activity in dogs.

Behaviour of smaller and larger dogs: Effects of training methods, inconsistency of owner behaviour and level of engagement in activities with the dog

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 16:21:00 +0000

Behavior of Smaller and Larger Dogs

Christine Arhant, Hermann Bubna-Littitz, Angela Bartels, Andreas Futschik, Josef Troxler

Behaviour of smaller and larger dogs: Effects of training methods, inconsistency of owner behaviour and level of engagement in activities with the dog

Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Volume 123, Issues 3–4, March 2010, Pages 131–142

Abstract

The owner's behaviour is regarded to be a possible cause of unfavourable behaviour such as poor obedience or excitability in smaller dogs. The aim of this study was to investigate whether owner behaviour such as use of training methods, inconsistency in the owner's behaviour or engagement in shared activities differs between owners of smaller (<20 kg) and larger dogs (≥20 kg) and whether associations between the owner's and the dog's behaviour in smaller dogs differ from those in larger dogs. For this purpose, a questionnaire-based survey via postal mailing was conducted in an urban and suburban population of pet dog owners (response rate: 28%). Statistical analysis of 1276 questionnaires involved descriptive statistics, Chi²-test, t-tests and Spearman correlations. Our results confirm that smaller dogs are seen as less obedient (P < 0.001), more aggressive and excitable (P < 0.001) and more anxious and fearful (P < 0.001). Smaller dog owners reported being more inconsistent in interactions with their dog (P < 0.001) and engaging less in training and play activities (P < 0.001) than larger dog owners. More consistent owner behaviour (r_s = −0.4, P < 0.001) and more frequent engagement in training and play activities (r_s = 0.4, P < 0.001) correlated with better obedience in smaller dogs. No marked differences were found in the types of training methods used with smaller and larger dogs, but owners of smaller dogs reported slightly less use of punishment (P = 0.007). In smaller and larger dogs, a more frequent use of punishment was associated with increased aggression and excitability (smaller: r_s = 0.3, P < 0.001; larger: r_s = 0.2, P < 0.001) as was a more frequent use of reward-based responses to unwanted dog behaviour such as calming or distracting the dog (r_s = 0.2, P < 0.001). The main result of our study was that increased anxiety and fear was related to a more frequent use of punishment in smaller (r_s = 0.2, P < 0.001) but not in larger dogs. We conclude that smaller dog owners could significantly improve obedience in their dogs by being more consistent in interactions and engaging regularly in play and training activities with them. Behavioural problems could be reduced by avoiding habits of punishment that might reinforce fear or fear-related aggression.

The efficacy of systematic desensitization for treating the separation-related problem behaviour of domestic dogs

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 16:17:00 +0000

Separation Anxiety in Dogs

Rynae Butler, Rebecca J. Sargisson, Douglas Elliffe

The efficacy of systematic desensitization for treating the separation-related problem behaviour of domestic dogs

Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Volume 129, Issues 2–4, 31 January 2011, Pages 136–145

Abstract

The evaluation of systematic desensitization to treat separation-related problem behaviours, such as destruction of property, excessive barking, or house-soiling, has tended to rely on single case-studies. Eight dogs exhibiting separation-related behaviour, and their owners, participated in a controlled experiment using a within-subjects design to evaluate the efficacy of a combination of systematic desensitization and counter-conditioning. Treatment produced significant reductions in both the frequency (T(9)) = 0.0, P = 0.008) and the severity (T(9)) = 0.0, P = 0.008) of separation-related behaviours compared to baseline. Six dogs, for which follow-up data were obtained three months after treatment ended, showed almost complete elimination of the problem behaviour. The use of counter-conditioning, and other behavioural advice, did not appear to be related to the success of the treatment, suggesting that systematic desensitization was the critical element. Speed of progress and final success was not related to the consistency with which the owners applied systematic desensitization, indicating that even when owners apply systematic desensitization haphazardly, it can still be successful in treating separation-related behaviour in dogs.

Understanding the genetic basis of canine anxiety: phenotyping dogs for behavioral, neurochemical, and genetic assessment

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 16:08:00 +0000

Dogs and Separation Anxiety

Karen L. Overall, MA, VMD, PhD, Steven P. Hamilton, MD, PhD, Melanie Lee Chang, PhD

Understanding the genetic basis of canine anxiety: phenotyping dogs for behavioral, neurochemical, and genetic assessment

Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Clinical Applications and Research, Volume 1, Issue 3, November–December 2006, Pages 124–141

Introduction: the Canine Behavioral Genetics Project (CBGP)

Behavioral problems account for the death, relinquishment, or the end of breeding careers of more dogs than does any other set of problems ( [Miller et al 1996], [Patronek et al 1996], [Salman et al 1998] and [Salman et al 2000]; Scarlett et al., 1999; [Shore et al 2003], [Mondelli et al 2004] and [Shore 2005]). Whereas many behavioral complaints involve management-related issues or dog-human temperament mismatches, the behavioral concerns that are most interesting to scientists and breeders alike are those with familial patterns.

A number of conditions have been identified as running in family lines of a number of breeds including, but not restricted to, generalized anxiety/fear, noise phobia, impulse/control aggression, conspecific aggression, predatory aggression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder ( [Overall 1994], [Overall and Dunham 2002] and [Overall 2005]). Most of these conditions appear sometime between one and two years of age, the social maturity period, during which neural systems are undergoing extensive developmental changes. The potential benefit of genetic counseling is clear, and the potential to make dogs “safer” and happier is substantial. Understanding the genetic bases of behavioral problems will lead to more humane treatment of dogs, fewer public health risks, an improved public perception of dogs as pets, and a considerable lessening in the recycled pet problem. Additionally, elucidation of the biological systems underlying pathological behavior will heighten our general understanding of the underlying molecular biology of behavior, allowing the dog to contribute to this rapidly evolving field.

Over 50 breeds across all seven AKC groups have family lines in which “fear/shyness/nervousness/panic/anxiety” is a major breeder-reported concern (Overall, unpublished). Within these breeds, this “trait” often follows familial lines, suggesting a heritable basis. This pattern has been noted for many physical conditions in dogs ( [Sutter et al 2004] and [Lark et al 2006]), but little emphasis has been placed on behavioral conditions because of the difficulty in defining a clear phenotype. Although recognition of other genetically mediated conditions is often straightforward, based on easily observable clinical phenomena that are defined by consensus (e.g., cancer, retinopathies, narcolepsy), assignment of behavioral phenotypes can be open to misclassification or misinterpretation ( [Overall 2005] and [Overall and Burghardt 2006]).

The broad goal of the CBGP is to explore the genetic background of anxiety-related behavioral problems in dogs. To do so, we must: (1) solicit the participation of owners of candidate dogs possibly affected by anxiety-related behavioral problems; (2) identify affected and unaffected dogs, using the necessary and specific diagnostic criteria to make a diagnosis of the condition; (3) confirm the presence of the relevant diagnosis in these dogs and if possible in their family lines, using reliable, repeatable, and validated behavioral measures involving questionnaires and videos; and (4) obtain DNA samples for genetic linkage and association analyses, along with the relevant pedigrees. In this article, we discuss the distinction between diagnosis and phenotype, and we describe our protocol for assessing behavioral phenotypes in dogs, addressing the second and third aspects of our project just discussed.

Owners' perception of food flavor preferences of pet dogs in relation to measured preferences of laboratory dogs

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 16:06:00 +0000

Dog Food Flavor Preference

Sharon L. Smith, David S. Kronfeld, Charles A. Banta

Owners' perception of food flavor preferences of pet dogs in relation to measured preferences of laboratory dogs

Applied Animal Ethology, Volume 10, Issues 1–2, March 1983, Pages 75–87

Abstract

In this study, food flavor preferences were examined in pet dogs and in laboratory dogs by feeding the same foods to each group; 3 specially formulated dry foods differing only in flavor. Three panels of laboratory dogs were given choices between 2 of the test foods, and their preferences were determined from quantities eaten. Sixty pet dogs were given the test foods by their owners in the manner dry food was usually served. The owners rated their perception of the dog's response to each test food by using a standard rating scale.

The laboratory dogs preferred some test foods over others. The pet-dog owners interpreted their dogs' responses as indicating no preference for any test food over any other, although individual owners' interpretations did vary. Some variables were examined in the pet dogs as a function of the variation in their perceived responses to the test foods. Variables were selected from diverse aspects of pet dogs; physical characteristics, feeding regime, behavior toward food, physical and social environments. Of the variables examined, only the dog's sex was associated with preferences for 2 of the test foods. None of the variables were associated with preferences for all 3 foods. Several were associated with preferences for only one food. The results of this study indicated a need to examine typical feeding behavior in pet dogs within the context of the home, and suggested several variables that appear to influence food flavor preferences.

Ecological behavior of free-ranging urban pet dogs

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 16:04:00 +0000

Hildy D. Rubin, Alan M. Beck

Ecological behavior of free-ranging urban pet dogs

Applied Animal Ethology, Volume 8, Issues 1–2, January 1982, Pages 161–168

Abstract

This study details the basic ecological behaviors of activity, range and social interaction of 15 individual pets that are permitted varying degrees of freedom to roam without human supervision. The degree of restraint provided by the owner significantly influences the pet's range and interaction with people and other dogs. Pets that are provided with no supervision behave more like un-owned strays than those that are only occasionally permitted to run free.

Knowledge that pet dogs roam more extensively the more time they are kept unrestrained may encourage dog owners actively to confine their pets and obey leash laws. That is, control laws will appear less arbitrary and more consistent with the best interests of the community. In addition, the relatively small ranges of pets that are only occasionally permitted freedom may be utilized by animal-control personnel as a management tool; it is more efficient to coax an animal back home, rather than capture it in the hopes it will be retrieved by the owner.

Consistency of dogs’ reactions to threatening cues of an unfamiliar person

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 16:02:00 +0000

Judit Vas, József Topál, Borbála Győri, Ádám Miklósi

Consistency of dogs’ reactions to threatening cues of an unfamiliar person

Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Volume 112, Issues 3–4, August 2008, Pages 331–344

Abstract

Reliability is one of the most important aspects of the behaviour observations measuring personality traits in animals. The most fundamental way to test reliability is the assessment of the test–retest consistency. On the other hand, in situations where social interaction between a human participant and the animal subject is at the scope of the study, the behaviour of the humans in the test situation should be restricted by a set of rules. However, if more than one experimenter participates in the observations, the similarity of the behaviour of different persons is an important aspect of the reliability of the study.

In our first study we investigated the consistency of dogs’ behaviour during approach by a person in a friendly and in a threatening way, repeating the test either immediately after the first test or at least 6 months later. We found that the dogs’ sensitivity to the human's behavioural cues in this situation proved to be consistent over repetition when the second test was performed approximately 1 year after the first test, but it was not the case when the time elapsed between test occasions was a few seconds. The detailed analysis indicated that dogs performing extreme behaviour (friendly or threatening) tended to show more conservative responses than dogs showing intermediate reactions when the stranger approached threateningly. Nonetheless, the reaction of the dogs failed to be in accordance with the opinion of the owners about the dogs’ behaviour in similar situations in everyday life.

In the second study we examined the consistency of the dogs’ behaviour in the same situation when confronted with two different unfamiliar persons immediately after each other. The consistency of the dogs’ response to the two experimenters was found to be reliably high.

In sum, this test procedure proved to be reliable enough to be a valuable measure of a definite part of the personality characters of dogs.

The effect of time left alone at home on dog welfare

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 16:00:00 +0000

Effects of Time Left Alone on Dog Welfare

Therese Rehn, Linda J. Keeling

The effect of time left alone at home on dog welfare

Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Volume 129, Issues 2–4, 31 January 2011, Pages 129–135

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of time left alone on dog behaviour and cardiac activity. Twelve privately owned dogs, with no history of separation related behaviour problems, were video-recorded on three different occasions when left alone in their home environment. The treatments lasted for 0.5 h (T_0.5); 2 h (T₂) and 4 h (T₄). Video-recording started 10 min before the owner left the house and continued until 10 min after the owner returned, so that interactions between dog and owner as well as behaviour during separation could be studied. Data on heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) were collected within the same time period in each treatment. In addition to analysing behaviours separately, behaviours were also grouped together and defined as new variables; physically active, attentive behaviour, vocal, interaction initiated by owner and interaction initiated by dog. There were no differences in behaviour between treatments at equivalent time intervals until the owner returned, although a number of differences were observed at reunion with the owner. Dogs showed a higher frequency of physical activity (P < 0.05) and attentive behaviour (P < 0.01) in T₂ (0.37 ± 0.07; 0.52 ± 0.08, mean frequency of occurrence/15 s ± SE) and T₄ (0.48 ± 0.08; 0.48 ± 0.07) compared to T_0.5 (0.20 ± 0.07; 0.21 ± 0.05). They also showed more tail wagging (P < 0.01) and interacted more with their owners (P < 0.01) in T₂ (0.27 ± 0.08; 0.47 ± 0.09) and T₄ (0.26 ± 0.04; 0.42 ± 0.09) compared to T_0.5 (0.09 ± 0.04; 0.14 ± 0.03). After a longer time of separation, the dogs also showed higher frequencies of lip licking (P < 0.05) and body shaking (P < 0.05) at the owner's return (T_0.5 = 0.09 ± 0.05; T₂ = 0.24 ± 0.08; T₄ = 0.27 ± 0.06 and T_0.5 = 0.03 ± 0.01; T₂ = 0.08 ± 0.03; T₄ = 0.07 ± 0.01, respectively). There was a tendency for higher HR (P < 0.1) during the first and second minute after reunion in T₂ (127.6 ± 1.25, mean bpm ± SE; 111.3 ± 1.24) compared to T_0.5 (106.2 ± 1.06; 87.5 ± 1.02). According to the results of this study, the effect of time left alone was shown by a more intense greeting behaviour by the dog towards their owner as well as by a higher frequency of physical activity and attentive behaviour when the owner returned, already after 2 h of separation. Although this study cannot distinguish between whether dogs were aware of the length of time they were alone (but did not signal it) or whether they were unaware until reminded of it by the return of their owner, it does confirm that dogs are affected by the duration of time at home alone.

The effects of fear and anxiety on health and lifespan in pet dogs

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 15:56:00 +0000

Nancy A. Dreschel

The effects of fear and anxiety on health and lifespan in pet dogs

Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Volume 125, Issues 3–4, July 2010, Pages 157–162

Abstract

Fear and anxiety-related behaviors are common in pet dogs and are likely to cause a physiological stress response in individuals that are exposed to those things they find fear or anxiety-inducing. Stress responses are related to a number of changes in hormonal and immune modulation and have been shown in many species to be related to disease processes and shortened lifespan. It was predicted that dogs with fear and anxiety disorders would have decreased lifespan and increased disease frequency and severity.

In this retrospective study, owners of 721 deceased dogs completed a 99 question on-line survey that asked about the demographics, training, behavioral characteristics, health history, age at and cause of death in their pets. Correlational and regression analyses were performed to explore relationships between behavior; fear and anxiety subscales; lifespan; and specific diseases and causes of death.

Results show that how “well-behaved” an owner felt their dog was positively correlated with lifespan (R² = 0.18, P < 0.001). Dogs with extreme non-social fear and separation anxiety were found to have an increased severity and frequency of skin disorders (R² = 0.03, P < 0.001). While neither stranger-directed fear nor any other fear or anxiety scales were related to specific causes of death, fear of strangers was found to be related to a significantly shortened lifespan (R² = 0.16, P < 0.001). There is evidence to suggest that the stress of living with a fear or anxiety disorder can have negative effects on health and lifespan in the domestic dog.

Relationship between attachment to owners and separation anxiety in pet dogs (Canis lupus familiaris)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 15:43:00 +0000

Attachement and Separation Anxiety Causes

Valli Parthasarathy, MS, PhD, DVM, Sharon L. Crowell-Davis, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVB

Relationship between attachment to owners and separation anxiety in pet dogs (Canis lupus familiaris)

Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Clinical Applications and Research, Volume 1, Issue 3, November–December 2006, Pages 109–120

Abstract

Dogs’ dysfunctional attachment relationships with their owners are assumed to be the underlying cause of separation anxiety. Thirty-two dogs with and 43 dogs without owner-reported separation anxiety (SA) participated in a formal attachment test (AT). After the AT, the dogs were videotaped for 30 minutes while alone at home. Dogs left free in the house were scored on how long they were in proximity to the owners’ exit doors. Dogs who were crated or closely confined were scored on several anxiety-related behaviors, which were then compared to those dogs’ behaviors during the attachment test. Dogs with SA spent no more time in contact with or proximity to their owners during the attachment test than dogs without SA (P>0.05). Instead, they tended to jump up on the door after the strangers left the room and remain stationary when alone with their owners (P<0.05). There was no significant difference (P>0.05) between SA and non-SA dogs in the amount of time spent in proximity to the owners’ exit doors when left alone at home. Dogs crated at home showed no relationship between the amount of anxiety-related behaviors during the AT or at home (P>0.05). There was no significant difference in the type of proximity-seeking behaviors exhibited by dogs with and without SA in the home (P>0.02). These finding suggest that separation anxiety is not based on “hyperattachment” of the dog to the owner, but that a different attachment style may be present between dogs with and without SA.

Growing old gracefully—Behavioral changes associated with “successful aging” in the dog, Canis familiaris

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 06:37:00 +0000

Aging in Dogs

Hannah E. Salvin, Paul D. McGreevy, Perminder S. Sachdev, Michael J. Valenzuela

Growing old gracefully—Behavioral changes associated with “successful aging” in the dog, Canis familiaris

Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Clinical Applications and Research, Volume 6, Issue 6, November–December 2011, Pages 313–320

Abstract

Aging is associated with behavioral and cognitive changes in all mammals. Unlike most clinical presentations, changes associated with aging do not always reflect an underlying pathology and therefore baselines for normality can be difficult to establish. Using data from a large cross-sectional survey of older dog owners, we aimed to identify normative behavioral changes associated with “successful aging” in dogs, and the rate of deterioration that could be expected over a 6-month period. Binary logistic regression identified significant age group effects from 18 items (difference in reported item incidence across age group: 4.5%-30.3%, P < 0.001-0.038). Significant age group effects on the percentage of dogs deteriorating over the preceding 6 months were evident in 21 items (difference in item deterioration across age group: 3.5%-25.7%, P < 0.001-0.033). The modal frequency of problem behaviors and abnormal ingestive or locomotory items was found to be low and the effect on memory and learning was minimal. Despite this, more than half of the items were reported to have shown a greater than 10% incidence of deterioration. In particular, activity and play levels, response to commands, and fears and phobias showed considerable deterioration. These findings represent the first steps toward the development of baseline values for normal behavioral changes in “successfully aging” dogs.

Results of a follow-up investigation to a clinical trial testing the efficacy of clomipramine in the treatment of separation anxiety in dogs

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 06:36:00 +0000

Clomipramine and Separation Anxiety

J.N. King, K.L. Overall, D. Appleby, B.S. Simpson, C. Beata, C.J.P. Chaurand, S.E. Heath, C. Ross, A.B. Weiss, G. Muller, B.G. Bataille, T. Paris, P. Pageat, F. Brovedani, C. Garden, S. Petit

Results of a follow-up investigation to a clinical trial testing the efficacy of clomipramine in the treatment of separation anxiety in dogs

Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Volume 89, Issues 3–4, December 2004, Pages 233–242

Abstract

The objective of the study was to investigate the incidence of adverse events and changes in behaviour after use of clomipramine to treat separation anxiety in dogs. This study was a follow-up investigation to a previously published clinical trial. In the main trial, dogs were randomised in a double-blinded manner to receive placebo, standard (1–2 mg/kg, q12h) or low (0.5–1 mg/kg, q12h) dosages of clomipramine for 2–3 months. All dogs received behavioural therapy. Follow-up questionnaires were completed in 76 out of 89 dogs between 5.5 and 16 months after completion of the main trial.

Post study, 12 dogs at one site received clomipramine long term (>13–16 months). The clomipramine was tolerated well, no dogs had worsening of their behaviour and behaviour improved further in 10 (83%) dogs.

An additional 16 dogs received clomipramine and/or other drugs for up to 30 weeks and 48 cases received no drugs post trial. Acute worsening of behaviour was noted in the first two weeks after stopping treatment in three cases receiving low dose clomipramine, but in no cases in the other groups. The worsening rate of separation anxiety >2 weeks after stopping therapy was 13% of dogs that had received standard-dose clomipramine, 15% of dogs that had received low dose clomipramine and 23% of dogs that had received placebo. The mean time to worsening was longer in dogs that had received standard-dose clomipramine (37 weeks), as compared to low dose clomipramine (11 weeks, P = 0.005) or placebo (11 weeks, P = 0.003).

In conclusion, no undesirable long term effects were detected in the use of standard-dose (1–2 mg/kg, q12h) clomipramine for the treatment of separation anxiety in dogs. Abrupt withdrawal of a sub-optimal dose of clomipramine (0

When dogs seem to lose their nose: an investigation on the use of visual and olfactory cues in communicative context between dog and owner

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 06:34:00 +0000

Canine Olfaction

V Szetei, Á Miklósi, J Topál, V Csányi

When dogs seem to lose their nose: an investigation on the use of visual and olfactory cues in communicative context between dog and owner

Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Volume 83, Issue 2, 5 September 2003, Pages 141–152

Abstract

In two experimental studies, we observed whether dogs rely on olfactory and/or visual information about the hiding place for food in a two-choice test. However, for some dogs direct olfactory (smelling the food) or visual (observing of the food being hidden) experience has been contradicted by human pointing (a well-known communicative gesture for the dog) to the ‘incorrect’ hiding place. We have found that dogs were able to use both olfactory and visual cues efficiently to choose above chance in a choice situation when there was no human cueing. However, in other experimental groups the dogs tended to choose the bowl pointed at by the human. This change in their behavior was more pronounced if they had only olfactory information about the location of the food. In contrast, if they had seen where the food was placed, dogs were more reluctant to follow the pointing gesture, but even so their performance worsened compared to the case in which they saw only the bowl baited.

These results give further support for the hypothesis that dogs regard the pointing gesture as being a communicative act about the placing of the food, but they do not rely on this gesture blindly and they can modify their behavior based on visual experience related directly to the hiding of the food. Further, contrary to general expectations dogs rely in this situation, only to some degree on olfactory cues.