If you could design the perfect dog, what would it look like? Tall, short, fluffy, wiry, black, white, tan or brindle? While animal buyers often look closely at physical characteristics, behavioural traits can make the difference between a dog becoming a much loved and pampered family member, or a mistreated or neglected unwanted animal.
According to researcher Pauleen Bennett science and breeding can be used to produce dogs that have characteristics desired by average dog owners and are well suited to the domestic environment.
“For many people, the dog is the only living animal with which they have any form of regular personal contact and of course, many pet dogs are treated like royalty,” Dr Bennett said.
“Yet, animal welfare shelters are forced to put to death thousands of unwanted dogs each year, and many pets are still subject to cruelty, neglect or inappropriate care. Even the most well-intentioned owner can place their dog’s wellbeing at risk through exposure to the stresses of high density living, anxiety triggered by long hours spent alone, and even obesity or diabetes caused by overfeeding.”
Characteristics which Australian owners want in their pet dogs include being friendly, obedient, affectionate and healthy, while undesirable behaviours included nervousness, destructiveness and excitability.
“Canine behavioural traits are highly heritable, so in theory at least, we can genetically fix desirable characteristics in dog breeds. Just as we have previously produced dogs able to herd sheep or pull sleds, so we should be able to breed dogs better suited to their role as companions.
“Successfully matching the dog, its requirements and behavioural traits with the understanding and desires of the owner should mean the animals are more likely to enjoy good welfare throughout long, healthy and happy lives.”
Dr Bennett will be presenting the findings of her research at the AAWS08 International Animal Welfare Conference on the Gold Coast, August 31—September 3.
“Now is an exciting time to be working in my area. The whole issue of animal welfare is gaining momentum socially and Australia is well-placed to lead the world in developing socially responsible relationships with animals,
“The most pressing issue, without any doubt, is deciding what we want the future of animals in Australia to be like. The bringing together of experts at a forum like AAWS08 is a great first step to answering that big question – how do we want our animals to experience their lives?
To find out more about AAWS08 or register online, visit www.daff.gov.au/aaws08.
To arrange interviews with speakers or request a media pass to the conference, please contact Jane Speechley: e-mail jane@charismaticcommunications.com.au or phone 0414 354 928.
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While I agree a dogs' temperament is one of the biggest factors in the development of the owner-pet bond that protects it from relinquishment; thoughtful breeding already produces animals that make great pets.
The issue is that the majority of people breeding dogs (BYB and dog farmers) *aren't* thoughtful. They don't give a hoot about health or temperament or whether the new owner is actually capable of caring for the dog.
Often these same breeders are the ones perpetuating the myth that crossing two dogs give the best of both; creating some sort of 'super dog', who will go on to be a perfect no-fuss family member - no effort required.
Talk about setting new owners up to fail!
It's only when you remove these profit motivated dog breeders from the dog lifecycle will the behavioural health of dogs improve.
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