"'Dogs with a history of early adversity showed higher fear and aggression, with life history explaining at least as much variance in each behavior type as sex or neuter status,' the researchers explained in their study, published in Scientific Reports."
"'The adversity-aggression association was most pronounced for events occurring in the first six months of life, aligning with sensitive periods of behavioral development. 'Furthermore, some breeds were at greater risk to the effects of adversity than others, suggesting an important genetic factor in fear and aggressive behavior.'"
"To get to the bottom of it, the team, led by Julia Espinosa, collected data from 4,497 dogs across 211 breeds. Owners were surveyed about their dogs' responses to 45 common triggers of aggression - including sudden, loud noises, or strangers approaching the front door. They were also quizzed about any examples of adversity experienced during puppyhood, characterised as trauma, abuse, and negative behaviour."
Data from 4,497 dogs across 211 breeds were analyzed for responses to 45 common aggression triggers and for histories of early adversity. One third of dogs experienced adversity during the first six months of life. Dogs that experienced neglect, trauma, abuse, or other negative events in puppyhood showed higher levels of fear and aggression in adulthood. Life-history factors explained at least as much variance in fear and aggression as sex or neuter status. The link between early adversity and later aggression was strongest for events in the first six months. Some breeds showed greater genetic susceptibility to the effects of early adversity.
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