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Behaviour of dogs during olfactory tracking

A Thesen1, J B Steen, K B Døving

  • 1Department of Biology, University of Oslo, Norway.

The Journal of Experimental Biology
|July 1, 1993
PubMed
Summary

German shepherd dogs can accurately determine track direction using distinct behavioral phases. Their success relies on precise air sampling and heightened olfactory sensitivity during a brief decision-making period.

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Area of Science:

  • Animal behavior
  • Olfactory perception
  • Canine olfaction

Background:

  • The ability to detect track direction is crucial for prey animals and is well-developed in domestic dogs.
  • Understanding canine scent detection mechanisms provides insights into animal behavior and sensory biology.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the behavioral phases and sensory mechanisms dogs use to determine track direction.
  • To analyze the specific actions and timing involved in canine track-following behavior.

Main Methods:

  • Four German shepherd dogs were trained and equipped with head microphones for sniffing activity monitoring.
  • Video monitoring was used to record dog behavior when presented with tracks at right angles.
  • Tests were conducted on aged tracks on both grass and concrete surfaces.

Main Results:

  • Dogs exhibited three distinct behavioral phases: searching, deciding, and tracking.
  • Dogs consistently followed tracks in the correct direction, regardless of surface or track age (within tested limits).
  • During the deciding phase (3-5 seconds), dogs halved their speed and tripled sniffing duration, focusing on 2-5 footprints.

Conclusions:

  • Canine track direction determination involves distinct behavioral phases, notably a brief but intensive 'deciding' phase.
  • The ability relies on sophisticated air sampling techniques and acute sensitivity to specific scent substances.
  • This study highlights the remarkable olfactory capabilities of dogs in complex scent tracking scenarios.

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