The genetic mechanisms underlying dog behavior are closely intertwined with those shaping human psychological traits. A new study conducted on Golden Retrievers has enabled scientists to identify genes that influence both aggression in animals and the development of depressive states in humans. This approach was made possible by focusing on a single breed, which minimized the impact of external factors and allowed researchers to concentrate on subtle differences within the group.
As part of a large-scale project, experts collected behavioral data from over a thousand Golden Retrievers. Dog owners filled out detailed questionnaires assessing their pets’ levels of aggression, fear, sociability, trainability, and activity. These findings were compared with genetic analysis results, leading to the identification of 12 DNA regions associated with various personality traits.
A comparison of these findings with the human genome revealed striking parallels. Genes linked to aggressive or anxious behavior in dogs correspond to neuroticism, mood swings, and depression in humans. For instance, the PTPN1 gene variant is associated with aggression toward other dogs in retrievers, while in humans it is tied to cognitive abilities and the risk of developing depressive disorders.
Genetic parallels between dogs and humans
Scientists note that the genes responsible for ‘problematic’ behavior in dogs often coincide with those that, in humans, affect emotional instability. This discovery suggests that aggressive or fearful animals may experience states biologically similar to human anxiety or depression.
The study also identified genes that influence cognitive abilities. For example, ROMO1 in dogs is linked to learning ability, while in humans it is associated with intellectual capacity. The SLC35F6 gene, which determines sensitivity to touch in animals, is associated in humans with mental disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
Special attention was given to the IGF1 gene, which affects not only a dog’s size but also the structure of its brain. It was found that large retrievers with a certain variant of this gene display a calmer temperament and lower energy levels.
Implications for Medicine and Canine Science
The discovery of genetic links between canine behavior and human psychology opens new avenues for medicine. Dogs are becoming a convenient model for studying psychiatric disorders, as the influence of specific genes in them is more pronounced than in humans. This allows researchers to more accurately identify targets for future studies and develop new treatment methods.
For dog handlers, the study’s results highlight the need to rethink approaches to modifying animal behavior. If aggression and fear in dogs have a genetic basis, simple training may not be effective enough. It’s important to consider the pet’s emotional state and focus on its psychological comfort, not just on obedience.
In addition, the identified parallels between genes responsible for trainability in dogs and intelligence in humans suggest new criteria for selecting working animals. Instead of traditional obedience tests, experts recommend using cognitive assessments to find dogs with high intellectual potential.
Genetics and the Future of Behavior Correction
The study’s findings emphasize that many dog personality traits, previously thought to be shaped solely by upbringing, in fact have deep biological roots. This reshapes our understanding of how to work with ‘difficult’ animals and highlights the importance of an individualized approach.
Scientists believe that further research into the genetics of behavior will not only improve our understanding of mental disorders in humans, but also enhance the quality of life for pets. In the long term, this could lead to the development of new behavior correction programs that take into account both the genetic and emotional characteristics of each animal.
Overall, the discovery of genetic links between canine and human behavior opens new horizons for science and practice. It offers a fresh perspective on the nature of emotions, as well as on methods for regulating and correcting them.
By the way: the Golden Retriever is one of the world’s most popular breeds
The Golden Retriever is a breed developed in the United Kingdom in the 19th century for hunting waterfowl. Today, these dogs are known for their friendly nature, high trainability, and loyalty. Thanks to their balanced temperament and learning abilities, Golden Retrievers are often used as guide dogs, therapy animals, and rescue dogs. The breed is generally healthy but requires regular exercise and attention to their emotional well-being. In recent years, Golden Retrievers have become the focus of numerous scientific studies on behavioral genetics and susceptibility to various diseases. Their popularity remains high, and the number of registered dogs increases every year. In Spain, Golden Retrievers rank among the top ten most beloved breeds among pet owners.
