All dog breeds exhibit some unwanted behaviors, such as noise sensitivity, aggression, and separation anxiety, though the frequency varies significantly between breeds. Multiple traits often co-occur, according to a recent study by Professor Hannes Lohi's research group at the University of Helsinki.
Unwanted behaviors affect most dogs.
"In our dataset of nearly 14,000 dogs—one of the largest worldwide—73% showed at least one unwanted behavior. Noise sensitivity, affecting a third of dogs, is a prime example," says Professor Hannes Lohi.
Lohi's team analyzed seven key traits: noise sensitivity (thunder, fireworks, gunshots); fear of people, other dogs, or unfamiliar places; fear of surfaces and heights; inattention and impulsivity; compulsive behaviors; aggression; and separation anxiety. Alongside noise sensitivity, anxiety-related fears of surfaces and heights were prevalent.
Parallels between dogs and humans
The study also explored links between traits. As prior research suggested, anxiety and aggression frequently overlap. Some discoveries were novel.
"We found a striking connection between impulsivity, compulsive behavior, and separation anxiety—mirroring the co-occurrence of OCD and ADHD in humans, observed here in dogs for the first time," notes PhD student Milla Salonen.
This canine behavioral research ultimately aims to illuminate human mental health issues. Dogs share physiological, behavioral, and social similarities with us, making them valuable models.
Significant breed-specific differences
Comparing the 15 breeds with the most survey responses revealed stark variations.
"These issues are highly breed-specific. Border Collies, for instance, showed elevated compulsive staring and light/shadow chasing, rare in other breeds," Lohi explains.
Breed differences in trait prevalence were substantial.
"Fear of strangers varied 18-fold between the most timid breed, the Spanish Water Dog, and the boldest, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier," Salonen adds.
The goal is to boost canine well-being. Traits like anxiety and noise sensitivity cause severe stress and can lead to relinquishment. "Our data suggest heritability, so targeted breeding with behavioral screening could reduce prevalence, enhancing life for dogs and owners alike," Lohi concludes.
