Breed Differences in Dog Behavior

Why Tails Wag Differently

by Renee L Ha, Tracy L Brad, James C Ha

Description

Humans have bred dogs for physical and behavioral characteristics for millennia. These efforts can have unintended side effects, however, which may be either advantageous or cause issues - such as a predisposition to certain medical complaints, or, controversially, behavioural issues. The scientific study of domestic dogs is still in its infancy, but public demand for this information is at a record high as more and more pet owners seek to understand their canine family members. Focusing on the behavioral differences and tendencies that have arisen in different breed lines, this book explores, summarizes, and explains the scientific evidence on what breed can tell us about behaviour - and, crucially, what it cannot. This book covers: - the impact of inbreeding, how it contributes to problematic behavioral issues such as anxiety and aggression, and how it potentially affects the future health of the breed; - the limits of predicting a dog's behavior based upon breed, individual differences within breeds, and thus the corresponding limitations of breed-specific legislation; - guidance for professionals to help their clients better understand behavioral issues, traits, and appropriate expectations around the right breed for their household. Providing a comprehensive and approachable view of the science behind breed-specific behaviors, this book gives dog enthusiasts from all professional and personal backgrounds a better understanding of why dogs do what they do, and how we can improve our relationships with our canine companions. Covering genetics, phylogeny of canids, temperament, aggression, social behavior, and the history of dog breeding, it is an important read for researchers, students, veterinary practitioners and animal behaviourists, as well as shelter staff, dog trainers, or anyone looking for a greater understanding of dog breed differences.

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Author Biography

Dr. Renee Ha is currently a Teaching Professor in the Department of Psychology (Animal Behavior Program) at the University of Washington where she has taught courses in animal behavior, animal learning, statistics, introductory psychology, and developmental psychology. Dr. Ha previously co-authored a textbook about statistics for the social and behavioral sciences. She is also the co-developer (along with Dr. James Ha) of a Certificate Program in Applied Animal Behavior at the University of Washington, a program that has a focus on Companion Animals. In 2017, this program won a National award from the University Professional and Continuing Education Association as an "Outstanding Credit Program". Dr. Ha's publications can be found under https://orcid.org/0009-0004-6830-2088.; Tracy Brad (Campion), MS, is a science and grant writer with graduate degrees in behavior (Primate Behavior, MS, Central Washington University) and journalism (Postgraduate diploma, London School of Journalism). S

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CABI (CAB International)

CABI (CAB International)

CABI (CAB International) is an international, non-profit body improving lives by providing information & scientific expertise to solve problems in agriculture & the environment.

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Bibliographic Information

  • Publisher/Imprint CABI / CAB International
  • Publication Date May 2024
  • Orginal LanguageEnglish
  • ISBN/Identifier 9781800624542 / 1800624549
  • Publication Country or regionUnited Kingdom
  • FormatPaperback
  • Primary Price 65 GBP
  • Pages280
  • ReadershipGeneral/trade; College/higher education; Professional and scholarly
  • Publish StatusPublished
  • Dimensions246 X 189 mm
  • Reference Code6062

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