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Bowen J, Fatjó J. Repetitive Behaviors in Dogs. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2024; 54:71-85. [PMID: 37805296 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2023.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Repetitive behaviors in companion animals have been compared with obsessive-compulsive disorders in people. There is evidence that repetitive behaviors may go unrecognized because they have a high level of comorbidity with other, more salient, behavior problems and may be overshadowed or regarded as amusing eccentricities. To assess repetitive behavior problems, we propose a standardized approach involving 5 categories or axes. This approach aims to identify the nature of the problem and the balance among medical, environmental, and temperamental factors. Environmental modification, behavioral modification, and drug treatment are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Bowen
- Queen Mother Hospital for Small Animals, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Jaume Fatjó
- Autonomous University of Barcelona and Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques, Barcelona, Spain.
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2
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Kis A, Radics E, Bolló H, Topál J. Methodological comparison of cancellation versus two-way choice spatial attention tests in humans and dogs. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1264151. [PMID: 37901109 PMCID: PMC10603243 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1264151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Behavioural problems in family dogs are amongst the leading reasons for relinquishment to shelters which adversely affects animal welfare. Recent research suggests that certain problematic behavioural patterns might be analogous to human psychiatric disorders. Veterinary diagnosis of such conditions, however, is scarce, probably due to the lack of appropriate measurement tools. The current study focuses on dog behaviour resembling the human hemispatial neglect condition, which manifests itself as a deficit in attention to and awareness of one side of the space. Methods Healthy human subjects (N = 21) and adult family dogs (N = 23) were tested with tools aimed to measure spatial attention. Tests administered to humans included validated paper and pencil neuropsychological tools to assess hemispatial neglect (cancellation tasks), as well as the canine version of that task (visuo-spatial search task). Dogs were tested with the same visuo-spatial search task as well as a two-way choice task. Results Results show that both in case of dogs and humans the visuo-spatial search task detects individual variation in subjects' side preferences. However, subjects' performance in the different tasks were not related.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kis
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- ELTE-HUNREN NAP Comparative Ethology Research Group, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Eszter Radics
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Henrietta Bolló
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - József Topál
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- ELTE-HUNREN NAP Comparative Ethology Research Group, Budapest, Hungary
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3
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Santifort KM, Plonek M, Mandigers PJJ. Case report: Neuropathic pain versus undesirable behavior in a Dachshund after hemilaminectomy surgery for an intervertebral disc extrusion. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1223800. [PMID: 37576835 PMCID: PMC10414986 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1223800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
A 5.5 years-old male Dachshund was presented for evaluation because of undesirable behavior including barking, biting, sucking and licking the right-side flank, ventrally and slightly caudally to the level of the surgical incision 7 days after hemilaminectomy for a right-sided L1-2 intervertebral disc extrusion. The dog was being treated with oral gabapentin 10 mg/kg q8h. Repeat clinical examination on three occasions after post-operative discharge did not reveal any signs of hyperesthesia or neurological deficits and the behavior was not observed in the clinic during consultations. During a separate day of hospital admittance with the aim of evaluating for the presence or absence of the behavior, the dog also did not exhibit the behavior. Oral paracetamol 12 mg/kg q8h was added to medical treatment. When the dog was discharged and returned home, the behavior was immediately seen again. When the owners implemented verbal punishment, the behavior immediately ceased. The owner verbally corrected the dogs' behavior for two excitative days. Upon telephone consultation 3 days later, the owner reported that they only had observed three recurrences of the behavior that immediately ceased following verbal correction and did not recur thereafter. Oral analgesic medication was tapered and discontinued. No recurrence of the behavior was noticed during the next 2 months. The authors postulated the dog possibly expressed signs of neuropathic pain in the post-operative period, or that the behavior was of a "compulsive disorder-like" nature as it only occurred when the dog was at home and in the presence of the owner. The eventual outcome and result of verbal corrections implemented by the owner seem to support the latter. In conclusion, compulsive-like undesirable behavior should be considered a differential diagnosis in dogs in the post-operative period of procedures possibly associated with the development or expression of signs of neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koen M. Santifort
- IVC Evidensia Small Animal Referral Hospital Arnhem, Neurology, Arnhem, Netherlands
- IVC Evidensia Small Animal Referral Hospital Hart van Brabant, Neurology, Waalwijk, Netherlands
| | - Marta Plonek
- IVC Evidensia Small Animal Referral Hospital Arnhem, Neurology, Arnhem, Netherlands
| | - Paul J. J. Mandigers
- IVC Evidensia Small Animal Referral Hospital Arnhem, Neurology, Arnhem, Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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Novack LI, Schnell-Peskin L, Feuerbacher E, Fernandez EJ. The Science and Social Validity of Companion Animal Welfare: Functionally Defined Parameters in a Multidisciplinary Field. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1850. [PMID: 37889767 PMCID: PMC10251938 DOI: 10.3390/ani13111850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Social validity refers to the social significance and acceptability of intervention goals, procedures, and outcomes. Animal practitioners, who are often guided by the principles of ABA, lack the benefit of verbal participants (at least with respect to target animals) with which to assess a client's needs and preferences. The study of a learner's welfare is useful for determining areas where intervention is needed or how the learner feels about an intervention that is underway. Three tenets of animal welfare measurement include physiological function, naturalistic behavior, and affect, where affect refers to private events, including emotions, which are a function of the same variables and contingencies responsible for controlling public behavior. The development of new technologies allows us to look "under the skin" and account for subjective experiences that can now be observed objectively. We introduce the reader to tools available from the animal welfare sciences for the objective measurement of social validity from the learner's perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren I. Novack
- Department of Special Education, Hunter College, New York, NY 10022, USA;
| | | | - Erica Feuerbacher
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24060, USA;
| | - Eduardo J. Fernandez
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia;
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5
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d'Angelo D, Sacchettino L, Carpentieri R, Avallone L, Gatta C, Napolitano F. An Interdisciplinary Approach for Compulsive Behavior in Dogs: A Case Report. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:801636. [PMID: 35400099 PMCID: PMC8988433 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.801636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Compulsive disorder is a debilitating condition affecting both humans and animals, characterized by intrusive thoughts and recurring out-of-place behaviors. Among them, tail chasing might represent one of the most common traits in compulsive dogs. Herein, we reported the case of a 7-year-old intact male German Shepherd mixed-breed dog, presenting with tail chasing behavior. He underwent a first behavioral evaluation 1 year before (at the age of 6), when he injured himself with severe wounds at level of the tail and left thigh. To avoid any specific suffering and increase his physical health, of course, the study was carried out through an interdisciplinary approach, employing a veterinary behaviorist and a rehabilitating dog instructor. Three months after pharmacological treatment with fluoxetine and α-s1 casozepine, associated with a behavioral recovery program, the owner reported an improvement of compulsive events in his dog, in terms of intensity and frequency. Interestingly, over the following 3 months, the dog did not experience any new tail chasing episodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danila d'Angelo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Sacchettino
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Luigi Avallone
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudia Gatta
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Claudia Gatta
| | - Francesco Napolitano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, Naples, Italy
- *Correspondence: Francesco Napolitano
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6
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Aggressiveness, ADHD-like behaviour, and environment influence repetitive behaviour in dogs. Sci Rep 2022; 12:3520. [PMID: 35332179 PMCID: PMC8948230 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-07443-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Repetitive behaviour ranges from variants of normal repetitive behaviours to abnormal repetitive behaviours. The domestic dog spontaneously performs different repetitive behaviours, which can be severe and impair the quality of life and the dog-owner relationship. We collected comprehensive behavioural questionnaire data from almost 4500 Finnish pet dogs and studied the effect of several demographic, environmental, and behavioural factors on canine repetitive behaviour with logistic regression. We replicated findings from previous studies by revealing comorbidity between repetitive behaviour and behavioural factors aggressiveness, hyperactivity/impulsivity, and inattention. We also found a novel association between repetitive behaviour and the owner’s dog experience. In addition, we showed that repetitive behaviour is more common in dogs that live without conspecifics, dogs that were given a low amount of exercise, dogs that lived in larger families, young dogs and elderly dogs, and neutered dogs. Finally, we identified breed differences in repetitive behaviour, suggesting that some breeds are more vulnerable to repetitive behaviour and indicate a genetic susceptibility. As abnormal repetitive behaviour can considerably worsen the well-being of dogs and impair the dog-owner relationship, a better understanding of the environmental, lifestyle, and molecular factors affecting canine repetitive behaviour can benefit both dogs and humans.
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7
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The link between neurology and behavior in veterinary medicine: A review. J Vet Behav 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2021.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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8
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A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, assessing the effect of a nutraceutical tablet in the management of stress in pet dogs. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2021.105416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Bray EE, Otto CM, Udell MAR, Hall NJ, Johnston AM, MacLean EL. Enhancing the Selection and Performance of Working Dogs. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:644431. [PMID: 34055947 PMCID: PMC8149746 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.644431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Dogs perform a variety of integral roles in our society, engaging in work ranging from assistance (e.g., service dogs, guide dogs) and therapy to detection (e.g., search-and-rescue dogs, explosive detection dogs) and protection (e.g., military and law enforcement dogs). However, success in these roles, which requires dogs to meet challenging behavioral criteria and to undergo extensive training, is far from guaranteed. Therefore, enhancing the selection process is critical for the effectiveness and efficiency of working dog programs and has the potential to optimize how resources are invested in these programs, increase the number of available working dogs, and improve working dog welfare. In this paper, we review two main approaches for achieving this goal: (1) developing selection tests and criteria that can efficiently and effectively identify ideal candidates from the overall pool of candidate dogs, and (2) developing approaches to enhance performance, both at the individual and population level, via improvements in rearing, training, and breeding. We summarize key findings from the empirical literature regarding best practices for assessing, selecting, and improving working dogs, and conclude with future steps and recommendations for working dog organizations, breeders, trainers, and researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily E Bray
- Arizona Canine Cognition Center, School of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States.,Canine Companions for Independence, National Headquarters, Santa Rosa, CA, United States
| | - Cynthia M Otto
- Penn Vet Working Dog Center, Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Monique A R Udell
- Human-Animal Interaction Laboratory, Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Nathaniel J Hall
- Canine Olfaction Lab, Department of Animal and Food Science, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Angie M Johnston
- Boston College Canine Cognition Center, Psychology and Neuroscience Department, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA, United States
| | - Evan L MacLean
- Arizona Canine Cognition Center, School of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States.,Cognitive Science Program, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States.,Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States.,College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
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Salonen M, Mikkola S, Hakanen E, Sulkama S, Puurunen J, Lohi H. Reliability and Validity of a Dog Personality and Unwanted Behavior Survey. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:1234. [PMID: 33923262 PMCID: PMC8147106 DOI: 10.3390/ani11051234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Dogs have distinct, consistent personalities, but the structure of dog personality is still unclear. Dog personality and unwanted behavior are often studied with behavioral questionnaires. Even though many questionnaires are reliable and valid measures of behavior, all new questionnaire tools should be extensively validated. Here, we examined the structure of personality and six unwanted behavior questionnaire sections: noise sensitivity, fearfulness, aggression, fear of surfaces and heights, separation anxiety and impulsivity/inattention with factor analyses. Personality consisted of seven factors: Insecurity, Training focus, Energy, Aggressiveness/dominance, Human sociability, Dog sociability and Perseverance. Most unwanted behavior sections included only one factor, but the impulsivity/inattention section divided into two factors (Hyperactivity/impulsivity and Inattention) and the aggression section into four factors (Barking, Stranger directed aggression, Owner directed aggression and Dog directed aggression). We also examined the internal consistency, test-retest reliability, inter-rater reliability and convergent validity of the 17 personality and unwanted behavior traits and discovered excellent reliability and validity. Finally, we investigated the discriminant validity of the personality traits, which was good. Our findings indicate that this personality and unwanted behavior questionnaire is a reliable and valid tool that can be used to study personality and behavior extensively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milla Salonen
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (M.S.); (S.M.); (E.H.); (S.S.); (J.P.)
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Salla Mikkola
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (M.S.); (S.M.); (E.H.); (S.S.); (J.P.)
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Emma Hakanen
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (M.S.); (S.M.); (E.H.); (S.S.); (J.P.)
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sini Sulkama
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (M.S.); (S.M.); (E.H.); (S.S.); (J.P.)
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jenni Puurunen
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (M.S.); (S.M.); (E.H.); (S.S.); (J.P.)
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hannes Lohi
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (M.S.); (S.M.); (E.H.); (S.S.); (J.P.)
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
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The Influence of Oxytocin on Maternal Care in Lactating Dogs. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11041130. [PMID: 33920905 PMCID: PMC8071241 DOI: 10.3390/ani11041130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, many studies on the role of oxytocin (OXT) in the onset of parental care, regulation of social bonding, and modulation of the emotional state have been published. However, its possible regulation of maternal behavior in lactating dogs has not been investigated yet. For this reason, the present study aimed at assessing potential correlations between salivary oxytocin and maternal behavior in 25 lactating Labrador Retriever dogs. Salivary concentrations of OXT (sOXT) were unrelated to the amount of maternal care except for a weak negative correlation with sniffing/poking behavior. Moreover, sOXT was positively correlated with the percentage of male puppies. Sniffing/poking behavior, in turn, was positively correlated with the duration of time the mothers spent out of the whelping box, while the number of male puppies showed a positive correlation with lateral nursing, a position known to provide puppies the easiest access to the milk. Taken together, these results suggest that sOXT may not be strongly associated with maternal care dynamics but could be correlated with sex-biased parental investment in dogs.
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Kitchenham L, Mason GJ. The neurobiology of environmentally induced stereotypic behaviours in captive animals: assessing the basal ganglia pathways and cortico-striatal-thalamo-cortical circuitry hypotheses. BEHAVIOUR 2021. [DOI: 10.1163/1568539x-bja10084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
The neurobiology of environmentally induced stereotypic behaviours (SBs) (e.g., pacing in zoo carnivores, crib-biting in horses, tail chasing in dogs) is hypothesized to involve altered functioning within the basal ganglia (‘Basal Ganglia (BG) Pathways Hypotheses’) and/or between the basal ganglia and cortex (‘Cortico-Striatal-Thalamo-Cortical (CSTC) Circuits Hypotheses’). We review four decades of relevant studies, critically assessing support for both hypotheses. Currently no BG Pathways or CSTC Circuits hypothesis is fully supported. While some results are partially consistent with some hypotheses (decreased subthalamic nucleus activity in deer mice and C58 mice); others (nucleus accumbens activity in mink and C57 mice) seem to reflect individual differences in SB, but not environmental effects. Yet others can be tentatively rejected: neither elevated striatal dopamine nor the cortico-striatal connection of the sensorimotor circuit seem to be involved for most species studied to date. Further research is now important for understanding the impact of captivity on animals’ functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey Kitchenham
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Georgia J. Mason
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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13
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Risk factors for aggressive behaviour in domestic dogs (Canis familiaris), as reported by owners in mainland China. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2020.105211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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14
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Walsh BR. A critical review of the evidence for the equivalence of canine and human compulsions. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2020.105166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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15
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Prevalence, comorbidity, and breed differences in canine anxiety in 13,700 Finnish pet dogs. Sci Rep 2020; 10:2962. [PMID: 32139728 PMCID: PMC7058607 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-59837-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Behaviour problems and anxieties in dogs decrease their quality of life and may lead to relinquishment or euthanasia. Considering the large number of pet dogs and the commonness of these problematic behaviours, a better understanding of the epidemiology and related molecular and environmental factors is needed. We have here studied the prevalence, comorbidity, and breed specificity of seven canine anxiety-like traits: noise sensitivity, fearfulness, fear of surfaces and heights, inattention/impulsivity, compulsion, separation related behaviour and aggression with an online behaviour questionnaire answered by dog owners. Our results show that noise sensitivity is the most common anxiety-related trait with a prevalence of 32% in 13,700 Finnish pet dogs. Due to the high prevalence of noise sensitivity and fear, they were the most common comorbidities. However, when comparing the relative risk, the largest risk ratios were seen between hyperactivity/inattention, separation related behaviour and compulsion, and between fear and aggression. Furthermore, dog breeds showed large differences in prevalence of all anxiety-related traits, suggesting a strong genetic contribution. As a result, selective breeding focusing on behaviour may reduce the prevalence of canine anxieties. Anxious animals may suffer from chronic stress and thus, modified breeding policies could improve the welfare of our companion dogs.
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Caramalac S, Caramalac S, Chimenes N, Palumbo M. Clomipramina no tratamento da perseguição compulsiva da cauda em Bull Terrier - relato de caso. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2020. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-4162-11091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
RESUMO A perseguição compulsiva da cauda consiste em um distúrbio caracterizado por movimentos giratórios em círculos, lentos a rápidos com ou sem foco na cauda. É uma desordem comportamental comumente observada em cães da raça Bull Terrier, sendo mais frequente em machos, com início entre três e seis meses de idade. O diagnóstico é realizado com base no histórico do paciente junto com exames físico, neurológico e laboratoriais. O tratamento pode ser feito por meio do manejo ambiental e da retirada de fatores estressantes aliados a medicamentos antidepressivos. O objetivo deste artigo é relatar o caso de um Bull Terrier que apresentava perseguição compulsiva da cauda e teve evidente melhora clínica 75 dias após início do tratamento com clomipramina. A melhora foi ainda maior após a orquiectomia. A clomipramina consiste em um antidepressivo tricíclico promissor no tratamento de perseguição compulsiva da cauda em cães, devendo-se associar alteração no manejo ambiental e evitar gatilhos que induzam frustração, ansiedade e conflito.
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Two novel genomic regions associated with fearfulness in dogs overlap human neuropsychiatric loci. Transl Psychiatry 2019; 9:18. [PMID: 30655508 PMCID: PMC6336819 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-018-0361-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Anxiety disorders are among the leading health issues in human medicine. The complex phenotypic and allelic nature of these traits as well as the challenge of establishing reliable measures of the heritable component of behaviour from the associated environmental factors hampers progress in their molecular aetiology. Dogs exhibit large natural variation in fearful and anxious behaviour and could facilitate progress in the molecular aetiology due to their unique genetic architecture. We have performed a genome-wide association study with a canine high-density SNP array in a cohort of 330 German Shepherds for two phenotypes, fear of loud noises (noise sensitivity) and fear of strangers or in novel situations. Genome-widely significant loci were discovered for the traits on chromosomes 20 and 7, respectively. The regions overlap human neuropsychiatric loci, including 18p11.2, with physiologically relevant candidate genes that contribute to glutamatergic and dopaminergic neurotransmission in the brain. In addition, the noise-sensitivity locus includes hearing-related candidate genes. These results indicate a genetic contribution for canine fear and suggest a shared molecular aetiology of anxiety across species. Further characterisation of the identified loci will pave the way to molecular understanding of the conditions as a prerequisite for improved therapy.
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Uccheddu S, Gallucci A, Briguglio P, Cossu G, Pais M, Pirrone F. Tail chasing in a dog with brain atrophy: A case report. J Vet Behav 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2018.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Early weaning increases aggression and stereotypic behaviour in cats. Sci Rep 2017; 7:10412. [PMID: 28871130 PMCID: PMC5583233 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-11173-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2017] [Accepted: 08/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Behaviour problems are common in companion felines, and problematic behaviour may be a sign of chronic stress. In laboratory animals, early weaning increases the risk for aggression, anxiety, and stereotypic behaviour. However, very few studies have focused on early weaning in one of the world’s most popular pets, the domestic cat, although weaning soon after the critical period of socialisation is common practice. To study the effects of early weaning (<12 weeks) on behaviour, a large data set (N = 5726, 40 breeds) was collected from home-living domestic cats through a questionnaire survey. The results show that weaning before 8 weeks of age increases the risk for aggression, but not fearful behaviour. Moreover, cats weaned after 14 weeks of age have a lower probability for aggression towards strangers than early weaned cats and a lower probability for stereotypic behaviour (excessive grooming) than cats weaned at 12 weeks. The effect of weaning age on stereotypic behaviour is partially explained by the effects on aggression. These findings indicate that early weaning has a detrimental effect on behaviour, and suggest delayed weaning as a simple and inexpensive approach to significantly improve the welfare of millions of domestic cats.
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Dreger DL, Rimbault M, Davis BW, Bhatnagar A, Parker HG, Ostrander EA. Whole-genome sequence, SNP chips and pedigree structure: building demographic profiles in domestic dog breeds to optimize genetic-trait mapping. Dis Model Mech 2016; 9:1445-1460. [PMID: 27874836 PMCID: PMC5200897 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.027037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In the decade following publication of the draft genome sequence of the domestic dog, extraordinary advances with application to several fields have been credited to the canine genetic system. Taking advantage of closed breeding populations and the subsequent selection for aesthetic and behavioral characteristics, researchers have leveraged the dog as an effective natural model for the study of complex traits, such as disease susceptibility, behavior and morphology, generating unique contributions to human health and biology. When designing genetic studies using purebred dogs, it is essential to consider the unique demography of each population, including estimation of effective population size and timing of population bottlenecks. The analytical design approach for genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and analysis of whole-genome sequence (WGS) experiments are inextricable from demographic data. We have performed a comprehensive study of genomic homozygosity, using high-depth WGS data for 90 individuals, and Illumina HD SNP data from 800 individuals representing 80 breeds. These data were coupled with extensive pedigree data analyses for 11 breeds that, together, allowed us to compute breed structure, demography, and molecular measures of genome diversity. Our comparative analyses characterize the extent, formation and implication of breed-specific diversity as it relates to population structure. These data demonstrate the relationship between breed-specific genome dynamics and population architecture, and provide important considerations influencing the technological and cohort design of association and other genomic studies. Summary: Successful application of whole-genome sequencing and genome-wide association studies for identifying both loci and mutations in canines is influenced by breed structure and demography, motivating researchers to generate breed-specific strategies for canine genetic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dayna L Dreger
- Cancer Genetics and Comparative Genomics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Maud Rimbault
- Cancer Genetics and Comparative Genomics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.,Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes, Rennes 35043, France
| | - Brian W Davis
- Cancer Genetics and Comparative Genomics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Adrienne Bhatnagar
- Cancer Genetics and Comparative Genomics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.,PIC North America, Hendersonville, TN 37075, USA
| | - Heidi G Parker
- Cancer Genetics and Comparative Genomics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Elaine A Ostrander
- Cancer Genetics and Comparative Genomics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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Harvey ND, Craigon PJ, Blythe SA, England GC, Asher L. Social rearing environment influences dog behavioral development. J Vet Behav 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2016.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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23
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Overall KL, Dunham AE, Juarbe-Diaz SV. Phenotypic determination of noise reactivity in 3 breeds of working dogs: A cautionary tale of age, breed, behavioral assessment, and genetics. J Vet Behav 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2016.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Wang J, Skoog T, Einarsdottir E, Kaartokallio T, Laivuori H, Grauers A, Gerdhem P, Hytönen M, Lohi H, Kere J, Jiao H. Investigation of rare and low-frequency variants using high-throughput sequencing with pooled DNA samples. Sci Rep 2016; 6:33256. [PMID: 27633116 PMCID: PMC5025741 DOI: 10.1038/srep33256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
High-throughput sequencing using pooled DNA samples can facilitate genome-wide studies on rare and low-frequency variants in a large population. Some major questions concerning the pooling sequencing strategy are whether rare and low-frequency variants can be detected reliably, and whether estimated minor allele frequencies (MAFs) can represent the actual values obtained from individually genotyped samples. In this study, we evaluated MAF estimates using three variant detection tools with two sets of pooled whole exome sequencing (WES) and one set of pooled whole genome sequencing (WGS) data. Both GATK and Freebayes displayed high sensitivity, specificity and accuracy when detecting rare or low-frequency variants. For the WGS study, 56% of the low-frequency variants in Illumina array have identical MAFs and 26% have one allele difference between sequencing and individual genotyping data. The MAF estimates from WGS correlated well (r = 0.94) with those from Illumina arrays. The MAFs from the pooled WES data also showed high concordance (r = 0.88) with those from the individual genotyping data. In conclusion, the MAFs estimated from pooled DNA sequencing data reflect the MAFs in individually genotyped samples well. The pooling strategy can thus be a rapid and cost-effective approach for the initial screening in large-scale association studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwen Wang
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, SE-14183 Huddinge, Sweden.,Science for Life Laboratory, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tiina Skoog
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, SE-14183 Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Elisabet Einarsdottir
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, SE-14183 Huddinge, Sweden.,Molecular Neurology Research Program, University of Helsinki and Folkhälsan Institute of Genetics, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tea Kaartokallio
- Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hannele Laivuori
- Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anna Grauers
- Department of Orthopedics, Karolinska University Hospital and Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC) Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Orthopaedics, Sundsvall and Harnosand County Hospital, Sundsvall, Sweden
| | - Paul Gerdhem
- Department of Orthopedics, Karolinska University Hospital and Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC) Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marjo Hytönen
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, and Research Programs Unit, Molecular Neurology, University of Helsinki and Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hannes Lohi
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, and Research Programs Unit, Molecular Neurology, University of Helsinki and Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Juha Kere
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, SE-14183 Huddinge, Sweden.,Science for Life Laboratory, Stockholm, Sweden.,Molecular Neurology Research Program, University of Helsinki and Folkhälsan Institute of Genetics, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hong Jiao
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, SE-14183 Huddinge, Sweden.,Science for Life Laboratory, Stockholm, Sweden
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Zapata I, Serpell JA, Alvarez CE. Genetic mapping of canine fear and aggression. BMC Genomics 2016; 17:572. [PMID: 27503363 PMCID: PMC4977763 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-016-2936-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fear/anxiety and anger/aggression greatly influence health, quality of life and social interactions. They are a huge burden to wellbeing, and personal and public economics. However, while much is known about the physiology and neuroanatomy of such emotions, little is known about their genetics - most importantly, why some individuals are more susceptible to pathology under stress. RESULTS We conducted genomewide association (GWA) mapping of breed stereotypes for many fear and aggression traits across several hundred dogs from diverse breeds. We confirmed those findings using GWA in a second cohort of partially overlapping breeds. Lastly, we used the validated loci to create a model that effectively predicted fear and aggression stereotypes in a third group of dog breeds that were not involved in the mapping studies. We found that i) known IGF1 and HMGA2 loci variants for small body size are associated with separation anxiety, touch-sensitivity, owner directed aggression and dog rivalry; and ii) two loci, between GNAT3 and CD36 on chr18, and near IGSF1 on chrX, are associated with several traits, including touch-sensitivity, non-social fear, and fear and aggression that are directed toward unfamiliar dogs and humans. All four genome loci are among the most highly evolutionarily-selected in dogs, and each of those was previously shown to be associated with morphological traits. We propose that the IGF1 and HMGA2 loci are candidates for identical variation being associated with both behavior and morphology. In contrast, we show that the GNAT3-CD36 locus has distinct variants for behavior and morphology. The chrX region is a special case due to its extensive linkage disequilibrium (LD). Our evidence strongly suggests that sociability (which we propose is associated with HS6ST2) and fear/aggression are two distinct GWA loci within this LD block on chrX, but there is almost perfect LD between the peaks for fear/aggression and animal size. CONCLUSIONS We have mapped many canine fear and aggression traits to single haplotypes at the GNAT3-CD36 and IGSF1 loci. CD36 is widely expressed, but areas of the amygdala and hypothalamus are among the brain regions with highest enrichment; and CD36-knockout mice are known to have significantly increased anxiety and aggression. Both of the other genes have very high tissue-specificity and are very abundantly expressed in brain regions that comprise the core anatomy of fear and aggression - the amygdala to hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. We propose that reduced-fear variants at these loci may have been involved in the domestication process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isain Zapata
- Center for Molecular and Human Genetics, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205 USA
| | - James A. Serpell
- Center for the Interaction of Animals and Society, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA
| | - Carlos E. Alvarez
- Center for Molecular and Human Genetics, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205 USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210 USA
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210 USA
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Non-targeted metabolite profiling reveals changes in oxidative stress, tryptophan and lipid metabolisms in fearful dogs. Behav Brain Funct 2016; 12:7. [PMID: 26867941 PMCID: PMC4751666 DOI: 10.1186/s12993-016-0091-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2015] [Accepted: 02/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Anxieties, such as shyness, noise phobia and separation anxiety, are common but poorly understood behavioural problems in domestic dogs, Canis familiaris. Although studies have demonstrated genetic and environmental contributions to anxiety pathogenesis, better understanding of the molecular underpinnings is needed to improve diagnostics, management and treatment plans. As a part of our ongoing canine anxiety genetics efforts, this study aimed to pilot a metabolomics approach in fearful and non-fearful dogs to identify candidate biomarkers for more objective phenotyping purposes and to refer to potential underlying biological problem. Methods We collected whole blood samples from 10 fearful and 10 non-fearful Great Danes and performed a liquid chromatography combined with mass spectrometry (LC–MS)-based non-targeted metabolite profiling. Results Non-targeted metabolomics analysis detected six 932 metabolite entities in four analytical modes [RP and HILIC; ESI(−) and ESI(+)], of which 239 differed statistically between the test groups. We identified changes in 13 metabolites (fold change ranging from 1.28 to 2.85) between fearful and non-fearful dogs, including hypoxanthine, indoxylsulfate and several phospholipids. These molecules are involved in oxidative stress, tryptophan and lipid metabolisms. Conclusions We identified significant alterations in the metabolism of fearful dogs, and some of these changes appear relevant to anxiety also in other species. This pilot study demonstrates the feasibility of the non-targeted metabolomics and warrants a larger replication study to confirm the role of the identified biomarkers and pathways in canine anxiety.
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Tiira K, Lohi H. Early Life Experiences and Exercise Associate with Canine Anxieties. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0141907. [PMID: 26528555 PMCID: PMC4631323 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0141907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 10/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Personality and anxiety disorders across species are affected by genetic and environmental factors. Shyness-boldness personality continuum exists across species, including the domestic dog, with a large within- and across-breed variation. Domestic dogs are also diagnosed for several anxiety-related behavioral conditions, such as generalized anxiety disorders, phobias, and separation anxiety. Genetic and environmental factors contributing to personality and anxiety are largely unknown. We collected questionnaire data from a Finnish family dog population (N = 3264) in order to study the associating environmental factors for canine fearfulness, noise sensitivity, and separation anxiety. Early life experiences and exercise were found to associate with anxiety prevalence. We found that fearful dogs had less socialization experiences (p = 0.002) and lower quality of maternal care (p < 0.0001) during puppyhood. Surprisingly, the largest environmental factor associating with noise sensitivity (p < 0.0001) and separation anxiety (p = 0.007) was the amount of daily exercise; dogs with noise sensitivity and separation anxiety had less daily exercise. Our findings suggest that dogs share many of the same environmental factors that contribute to anxiety in other species as well, such as humans and rodents. Our study highlights the importance of early life experiences, especially the quality of maternal care and daily exercise for the welfare and management of the dogs, and reveals important confounding factors to be considered in the genetic characterization of canine anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katriina Tiira
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Research Programs Unit, Molecular Neurology, P.O.Box 63, 00014 University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- The Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hannes Lohi
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Research Programs Unit, Molecular Neurology, P.O.Box 63, 00014 University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- The Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
- * E-mail:
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29
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Overall KL. Behavior, biological markers, interspecific outcome assessments, and One Medicine. J Vet Behav 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2015.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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30
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Hall NJ, Protopopova A, Wynne CD. The role of environmental and owner-provided consequences in canine stereotypy and compulsive behavior. J Vet Behav 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2014.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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31
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Overall KL, Tiira K, Broach D, Bryant D. Genetics and behavior: a guide for practitioners. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2014; 44:483-505. [PMID: 24766696 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2014.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Phenotyping behavior is difficult, partly because behavior is almost always influenced by environment. Using objective terms/criteria to evaluate behaviors is best; the more objective the assessment, the more likely underlying genetic patterns will be identified. Behavioral pathologies, and highly desirable behavioral characteristics/traits, are likely complex, meaning that multiple genes are probably involved, and therefore simple genetic tests are less possible. Breeds can be improved using traditional quantitative genetic methods; unfortunately, this also creates the possibility of inadvertently selecting for covarying undesirable behaviors. Patterns of behaviors within families and breed lines are still the best guidelines for genetic counseling in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Katriina Tiira
- Canine Genomics Research Group, Research Program's Unit, Molecular Neurology, Department of Veterinary Biosciences, The Folkhälsan Institute of Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Desiree Broach
- JBSA-Lackland, 1219 Knight Street, San Antonio, TX 78236, USA
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van Rooy D, Arnott ER, Early JB, McGreevy P, Wade CM. Holding back the genes: limitations of research into canine behavioural genetics. Canine Genet Epidemiol 2014; 1:7. [PMID: 26401324 PMCID: PMC4579367 DOI: 10.1186/2052-6687-1-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Canine behaviours that are both desirable and undesirable to owners have a demonstrable genetic component. Some behaviours are breed-specific, such as the livestock guarding by maremmas and flank sucking seen in Dobermanns. While the identification of genes responsible for common canine diseases is rapidly advancing, those genes underlying behaviours remain elusive. The challenges of accurately defining and measuring behavioural phenotypes remain an obstacle, and the use of variable phenotyping methods has prevented meta-analysis of behavioural studies. International standardised testing protocols and terminology in canine behavioural evaluations should facilitate selection against behavioural disorders in the modern dog and optimise breeding success and performance in working dogs. This review examines the common hurdles faced by researchers of behavioural genetics and the current state of knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane van Rooy
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Elizabeth R Arnott
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Jonathan B Early
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Paul McGreevy
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Claire M Wade
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
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Denham HDC, Bradshaw JWS, Rooney NJ. Repetitive behaviour in kennelled domestic dog: stereotypical or not? Physiol Behav 2014; 128:288-94. [PMID: 24472323 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2014.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2013] [Revised: 12/18/2013] [Accepted: 01/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Repetitive behaviour is common in kennelled dogs, yet its motivational basis remains relatively unexplored. We examine the repetitive behaviour of 30 kennelled working dogs in ten contexts both coinciding with, and in the absence of, commonly occurring arousing stimuli, such as care staff, other dogs and food preparation. A large proportion (93%) of subjects performed some repetitive behaviour, most commonly bouncing, but only 17% in the absence of the arousing stimuli. Subjects could be divided into four groups according to the stimuli eliciting, and the duration, of their repetitive behaviour, and these groups were compared on the basis of their cortisol response to an acute psychogenic stressor--a veterinary examination. Urinary cortisol/creatinine response curves differed significantly between the groups. In particular, those dogs which performed repetitive behaviour at times of minimal stimulation, showed a distinctly different pattern of response, with cortisol levels decreasing, as compared to increasing, after the veterinary examination. We conclude that dogs showing repetitive behaviours at times of high arousal are motivationally distinct from those "stereotyping" in the absence of stimulation. We suggest that those dogs showing spontaneous repetitive behaviours may have past experiences and/or temperaments that affect both their reactions to a veterinary examination and to long-term kennelling. For example, some dogs may find isolation from humans particularly aversive, hence affecting their reactions both to being left in a kennel and to being taken to the veterinary surgeon. Alternatively, such dogs may have atypical responsiveness of their hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, possibly brought about through chronic stress. High levels of repetitive behaviours in response to inaccessible husbandry events may be explained if such behaviour has inadvertently been reinforced by attention from staff, and therefore may not always be indicative of aversion to kennelling or compromised welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamish D C Denham
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Veterinary Centre, Roslin, EH25 9RG, United Kingdom; Royal Army Veterinary Corps, Royal Army Medical Directorate, Army Headquarters, Former Army Staff College, Slim Road, Camberley, Surrey GU15 4NP, United Kingdom.
| | - John W S Bradshaw
- Anthrozoology Institute, Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, University of Bristol, School of Veterinary Sciences, Langford BS40 5DU, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola J Rooney
- Anthrozoology Institute, Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, University of Bristol, School of Veterinary Sciences, Langford BS40 5DU, United Kingdom.
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McGreevy PD, Georgevsky D, Carrasco J, Valenzuela M, Duffy DL, Serpell JA. Dog behavior co-varies with height, bodyweight and skull shape. PLoS One 2013; 8:e80529. [PMID: 24358107 PMCID: PMC3864788 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0080529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2013] [Accepted: 10/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Dogs offer unique opportunities to study correlations between morphology and behavior because skull shapes and body shape are so diverse among breeds. Several studies have shown relationships between canine cephalic index (CI: the ratio of skull width to skull length) and neural architecture. Data on the CI of adult, show-quality dogs (six males and six females) were sourced in Australia along with existing data on the breeds' height, bodyweight and related to data on 36 behavioral traits of companion dogs (n = 8,301) of various common breeds (n = 49) collected internationally using the Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire (C-BARQ). Stepwise backward elimination regressions revealed that, across the breeds, 33 behavioral traits all but one of which are undesirable in companion animals correlated with either height alone (n = 14), bodyweight alone (n = 5), CI alone (n = 3), bodyweight-and-skull shape combined (n = 2), height-and-skull shape combined (n = 3) or height-and-bodyweight combined (n = 6). For example, breed average height showed strongly significant inverse relationships (p<0.001) with mounting persons or objects, touch sensitivity, urination when left alone, dog-directed fear, separation-related problems, non-social fear, defecation when left alone, owner-directed aggression, begging for food, urine marking and attachment/attention-seeking, while bodyweight showed strongly significant inverse relationships (p<0.001) with excitability and being reported as hyperactive. Apart from trainability, all regression coefficients with height were negative indicating that, across the breeds, behavior becomes more problematic as height decreases. Allogrooming increased strongly (p<0.001) with CI and inversely with height. CI alone showed a strong significant positive relationship with self-grooming (p<0.001) but a negative relationship with chasing (p = 0.020). The current study demonstrates how aspects of CI (and therefore brain shape), bodyweight and height co-vary with behavior. The biological basis for, and significance of, these associations remain to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul D. McGreevy
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Dana Georgevsky
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Johanna Carrasco
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael Valenzuela
- Brain and Mind Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Deborah L. Duffy
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - James A. Serpell
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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Brain structural abnormalities in Doberman pinschers with canine compulsive disorder. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2013; 45:1-6. [PMID: 23590875 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2013.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2012] [Revised: 04/03/2013] [Accepted: 04/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a debilitating condition, the etiology of which is poorly understood, in part because it often remains undiagnosed/untreated for a decade or more. Characterizing the etiology of compulsive disorders in animal models may facilitate earlier diagnosis and intervention. Doberman pinschers have a high prevalence of an analogous behavioral disorder termed canine compulsive disorder (CCD), which in many cases responds to treatments used for OCD. Thus, studies of CCD may help elucidate the etiology of compulsive disorders. We compared brain structure in Dobermans with CCD (N=8) and unaffected controls (N=8) to determine whether CCD is associated with structural abnormalities comparable to those reported in humans with OCD. We obtained 3 Tesla magnetic resonance structural and diffusion images from anesthetized Dobermans and subjected images to segmentation, voxel based morphometry, and diffusion tensor analyses. CCD dogs exhibited higher total brain and gray matter volumes and lower dorsal anterior cingulate cortex and right anterior insula gray matter densities. CCD dogs also had higher fractional anisotropy in the splenium of the corpus callosum, the degree of which correlated with the severity of the behavioral phenotype. Together, these findings suggest that CCD is associated with structural abnormalities paralleling those identified in humans with OCD. Accordingly, the CCD model, which has a number of advantages over other animal models of OCD, may assist in establishing the neuroanatomical basis for and etiology of compulsive disorders, which could lead to earlier diagnosis of and new treatments for humans and animals with these disorders.
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Frank D. Repetitive behaviors in cats and dogs: are they really a sign of obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD)? THE CANADIAN VETERINARY JOURNAL = LA REVUE VETERINAIRE CANADIENNE 2013; 54:129-131. [PMID: 23904634 PMCID: PMC3552586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Diane Frank
- Université de Montréal, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vétérinaire, 1525 rue des Vétérinaires, Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec J2S 7C2.
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Hall NJ, Wynne CDL. The canid genome: behavioral geneticists' best friend? GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2012; 11:889-902. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-183x.2012.00851.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2012] [Revised: 06/12/2012] [Accepted: 09/04/2012] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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