Insight into the Factors of Human-Canine Relationships in Shaping Canine Personalities

Sudowsky, Kaitlyn

Undergraduate Honors Thesis

Insight into the Factors of Human-Canine Relationships in Shaping Canine Personalities Public Deposited

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Citeable URL: https://scholar.colorado.edu/concern/undergraduate_honors_theses/8623j0070

Abstract

Dogs, Canis familiaris, have been under artificial selection by humans since 8,000 BC, with some evidence of selection taking place up to 28,000 BC. The unique domestication of dogs has created a diverse assortment of phenotypes, behavior, and traits. This process has generated dogs that many people consider companions. Dogs are suitable companions because there is evidence of personality alignment between owner and dog. Because of this personality alignment, what influences personality in dogs? And if the environment is a major influence, what hypotheses are present in research? In this literature review, the CU library database was used to qualitatively synthesize research literature, and information from textbooks relating to dog domestication. Information was organized and presented to come to a preliminary conclusion regarding whether and how dog personalities develop and if they are aligned with the personalities of their owners. Due to the high level of past artificial selection, there is little room for further additive genetics effects, and thus dog personality is highly influenced by environment. Three hypotheses from Chopik and Weaver (2019) are considered: selection effect, dog’s personalities are alike to humans because humans select similar behaving dogs; socialization effect, more social humans will have more social dogs; and anthropomorphism, humans have idiosyncratic ways of evaluating dog’s behaviors. I propose veterinarian insight is necessary to come to a definite conclusion because they are professionals in the field with knowledgeable first-hand experience, and present a set of interview questions and preliminary data on which future research can be based. By understanding the basis of dog behavior and personality, owners can create spaces that are more shaped towards their dog’s welfare.

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