Reproductive tactics influence the learning strategies of dogs

This study aimed to investigate the effect of reproductive tactics on the learning strategies of dogs. The researchers used a modified version of the detour task to test the dogs’ ability to learn by either trial-and-error or observation. The dogs were divided into two groups based on their reproductive tactics: those who had sired offspring … Read more

Single-nucleotide-polymorphism-based association mapping of dog stereotypes

This study aimed to identify the genetic basis of dog stereotypes using single-nucleotide-polymorphism-based association mapping. The researchers genotyped 915 dogs from 80 breeds and used a mixed-model approach to identify significant associations between genetic markers and breed-typical behaviors. They found that certain behaviors, such as herding and pointing, were strongly associated with specific genetic markers, … Read more

Single-nucleotide-polymorphism-based association mapping of dog stereotypes

This study aimed to identify the genetic basis of dog stereotypes using single-nucleotide-polymorphism-based association mapping. The researchers genotyped 915 dogs from 80 breeds and used a mixed-model approach to identify significant associations between genetic markers and breed-typical behaviors. They found that certain behaviors, such as herding and pointing, were strongly associated with specific genetic markers, … Read more

A theory of play and fantasy

In his seminal paper, ‘A theory of play and fantasy’, Gregory Bateson presents a theoretical framework for understanding the role of play in human development. Bateson argues that play is a form of learning that is essential for the development of cognitive and social skills. He suggests that play allows individuals to explore and experiment … Read more

Genetics and the Social Behavior of the Dog

Genetics and the Social Behavior of the Dog is a classic book that explores the relationship between genetics and social behavior in dogs. The book is divided into three parts. The first part discusses the history of dog breeding and the development of different breeds. The second part examines the social behavior of dogs, including … Read more

How Dogs Work

How Dogs Work is a fascinating book that explores the biology, behavior, and evolution of dogs. The book is divided into three parts. The first part discusses the biology of dogs, including their anatomy, physiology, and genetics. The second part examines the behavior of dogs, including their social behavior, communication, and learning. The third part … Read more

The Domestic Dog: Its Evolution, Behavior and Interactions with People

The Domestic Dog: Its Evolution, Behavior and Interactions with People is a comprehensive book that explores the history, evolution, behavior, and interactions of dogs with humans. The book is divided into three parts. The first part discusses the origins and evolution of dogs, including their physical and behavioral characteristics. The second part examines the behavior … Read more

The Genetical Theory of Natural Selection

The Genetical Theory of Natural Selection, written by Ronald A. Fisher and published in 1930, is a seminal work in the field of evolutionary biology. In this book, Fisher presents his mathematical theory of evolution, which combines genetics and natural selection to explain how populations change over time. Fisher’s theory is based on the idea … Read more