Graphic Abstract Credits: I Science (2023). doi: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106691
Dog man’s best friend is a popular pet There are hundreds of different dog breeds, each with its own personality. A study recently completed at the University of Helsinki confirms the idea of personality differences between dog breeds. Research published in the journal I Science.
Milla Salonen, a postdoctoral researcher, said: “A dog’s breed is the most important determinant that lies beneath personality differences. Every dog has its own personality. And every species has different characteristics. While conducting the study, Salonen worked as a researcher at the Faculty of Medicine. University of Helsinki She currently works at the University of Turku’s Department of Biology.
Researchers from the Canine Gene Research Group at the University of Helsinki compiled a massive behavioral survey dataset covering more than 11,000 dogs, examining environmental and other factors. related to personality The dataset contains more than 300 different strains grouped into 52 strain groups. Until now, differences between strains have not been comprehensively investigated. In fact, many species and breed groups have never been studied before.
“This study is a focused update on the impact of breeds on canine personality. Because the results of the American study published last year were considered very insignificant. While breed is the most important factor behind personality. Genetics and Other Factors – Genetic factors have a complex effect on personality,’ points out Prof. Hannes Lohi from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine.
The study examined the link between factors. on 7 personality traits: instability, concentration, aggression/dominance, energy, dog sociability human friendliness and perseverance
Early socialization is important.
Based on the environmental factors studied in this study. Puppy socialization is the most important thing. Higher socialization experiences during puppyhood (between 7 weeks and 4 months of age) were associated with lower insecurity and aggressive/dominant traits. as well as a higher training focus. and socialization of humans and dogs
“Our research indicates that new owners should become as acquainted with their puppies as possible with unfamiliar people, places and animals. Of course, socialization is always on the puppy’s terms. This means puppies must not be forced into frightening situations,” says Salon.
Age is strongly linked to a dog’s behavior. in elderly dogs The average focus training traits were higher in young dogs. Note the opposite link between age and insecurity, energy, and sociability in humans and dogs: in young dogs. the average is higher
complex personality traits
The underlying factors examined represent only a small fraction of the variations in interpersonal personality traits. This, and the significant differences observed between breeds, indicates that personality is also highly genetic. Most likely, the environment of early puppyhood. Including the care of the mother is also very important. But this study could not be identified.
“According to our research Personality traits are extremely complex and there are surprising similarities between dogs, humans and other animals,” says Salonen.
More information:
Milla Salonen et al. Breed, age, and social environment correlate with personality traits in dogs. I Science (2023). doi: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106691
Provided by the University of Helsinki.
reference: Breed, age and socialization of puppies linked to dog personality (2023, May 25). Retrieved May 25, 2023, from https://phys.org/news/2023-05-age-puppyhood-socialization. -linked-canine.html
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