Participation in Breed-Specific Cynological Activities Is Associated with Behavioral Variation in Terrier-Type Dogs:...

Area of Science:

• Canine behavior and genetics
• Animal welfare and behavior studies

Background:

• Understanding factors influencing canine behavior is crucial for welfare.
• Terrier-type dogs exhibit diverse behavioral traits influenced by various factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the relationship between demographic, biological, and management factors and behavioral traits in terrier-type dogs.
• Identify key factors associated with specific behaviors in this breed group.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire (C-BARQ) for data collection.
• Investigated behavioral traits in 195 terrier-type dogs.
• Employed statistical analysis to determine associations between factors and behaviors.

Main Results:

• Non-participation in breed-specific activities (e.g., trials) linked to higher owner-directed aggression, non-social fear, dog-directed fear, and attention-seeking.
• Neutered dogs exhibited increased non-social fear, touch sensitivity, and aggression towards conspecifics and strangers.
• Age and sex showed modest influences on energy levels and aggression, while breed impacted fear and energy levels.

Conclusions:

• Breed-specific activity participation and neuter status are significant factors associated with behavior in terrier-type dogs.
• Findings suggest targeted interventions based on these factors could improve canine welfare.
• Further research is needed to confirm these exploratory associations.