What influences dog behaviour?

Complex behaviours in dogs are influenced by genetics, research has found. A large-scale study of dogs has given valuable insight on genes linked to common characteristics. Research into German shepherds found that some of their behaviours, such as chasing, playing with humans, and fear of loud noises – were influenced by genetics. A number of environmental influences such as training levels were associated with the traits. Some regions of DNA highlighted by the study contained genes previously linked to behaviour in other species. For example, a region of the genome associated with touch sensitivity – mainly shown by fear or aggression towards grooming – contained a gene previously linked to skin sensitivity in mice. The study built on previous work with Labrador retrievers, which also found that many environmental and genetic influences were associated with behaviour. However, the genetic regions associated with behaviour in German shepherds were different from those seen for Labradors. As social animals with complex personalities, there is much to be gained from understanding what influences dogs’ behaviour.

An animal’s behavior is influenced by many factors. Some of these factors include genetic predisposition, experience and learning, environment, and physiology. Several dog studies have shown that behavior can be inherited to some degree. In addition, maternal influences can affect personality and temperament. The effect of other puppies in the litter, the amount and type of human handling, and exposure to new objects and experiences all influence a dog’s behavior. The brain and its associated neurotransmitters also play a fundamental role in temperament and behavior. Abnormal levels of various hormones play a role in certain forms of aggression and fear. Behavior is usually in relation to the environment, and is controlled by the endocrine and nervous systems. The complexity of animal behavior is related to the complexity of its nervous system.