Med. Weter. 69 (7), 411-414, 2013
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| Karpiński M., Mazurkiewicz T., Drozd L., Goleman M., Czyżowski P. |
| Selected behavioural tests used during the adoption of dogs in foreign animal shelters |
| Man’s connection with the dog has lasted thousands of years. Over that period, humans have influenced the physical characteristics and behavior of Canis familiaris through the process of artificial selection. The role of the domestic dog, however, has been changing along with human civilization, rendering some traits of canine behavior undesirable. The innate inclination of Canis familiaris to display aggression may influence its interaction with humans. Dogs whose behavior diverges from the norms approved by society are often placed in shelters for animals, which take care of homeless animals as well as of pets left by their owners. Consequently, animal shelters have to deal with dogs exhibiting various forms of aggressive behavior. The identification of these behavioral problems is extremely important if the animals are to be offered for adopted. In order to detect abnormal behavior in dogs, animal shelters use a number of methods, the most popular of which are various behavioral tests. The tests, however, have certain drawbacks and are not very effective in discovering behavioral problems in dogs. That is why animal shelters ought to use only reliable tests and discuss all important aspects of the dog’s behavior with its potential new owner. It is necessary to use a comprehensive approach in identifying the risks related to the dog’s aggressive behavior. |
| Key words: behavioral tests, dog, shelters, aggression |