The nature versus nurture debate has been an enduring one in our understanding of not just ourselves, but also of our dogs. When discussing a dog’s nature, we are referring to their genetics. That is, the genes inherited by each parent that contribute to the individual animal’s genotype. Genes are found on a specific spot of the chromosome, known as a locus. At every locus there are two alleles, a version of the gene from each parent (Donaldson, 2008). Genes can interact in many different ways. Whilst a dog’s genetics typically dictates its size, coat type and markings, how an individual puppy looks will depend on the complex interaction of its genes (Schmutz & Berryere, 2007).
Early life
Nurture then refers to the numerous other factors that may contribute to an individual’s physical appearance and behaviour. When discussing the effect of nurture on dogs, we are typically looking at what the dog has learnt, rather than inherited. Puppies start to learn about the world around them and what it means for them from very early on. As such, the behaviour of the mother towards her puppies can have a significant impact on the development of the pups responses to stress- both behaviorally and physiologically (Serpell, 2016). As well as learnt behaviour, nurture also refers to the environmental factors that may impact a dog, such as diet and housing (Foraita, Howell & Bennett, 2021).
Nature versus nurture- the role of genetics
Investigating the differences between the breeds of dogs can help us to understand the impact a dog’s genetics can have on their behaviour. A 2022 study by Junttila et al found that there were significant differences in the way breeds understood gestures by humans as well as other tasks. The authors found that the Golden Retriever and the Border Collie spent more time engaging in human directed behaviour than the Belgian Shepherd and the Malinois in one of the tasks. These results are not surprising when we consider that the former two breeds are typically used to work with humans, whereas the latter are often used for more independent work. Likely, genetics may predispose a dog for certain behaviours, for example, the Labrador Retriever is predisposed to carry objects in its mouth.
Nature versus nurture- the role of learning and environment
However, learning and environmental factors have a significant impact on a dog’s behaviour. Experiences in early life, such as quality of maternal care and early socialisation can influence the development of aggressive, anxious and separation related behavioural issues later in life (Dietz et al, 2019). According to Wilson (2016), up to 80% of behavioural traits may be explained by environmental factors in his study of working dogs. Learning in the form of training can also affect a dog’s behaviour. The training methods used also matter. Punishment based methods can lead to poorer canine executive functions (Foraita, Howell & Bennett, 2021).
The story continues…
So, it less nature versus nurture, but indeed nature AND nurture. All dogs are complete individuals due to the complex interactions of their genetics and the environmental factors they encounter from very early on in life. It can be very difficult to decipher what behaviours have a genetic basis (nature) and which are brought on learning and environment (nurture) but research in this area is ongoing.
References
Oh Behave!: Dogs from Pavlov to Premack to Pinker. Jean Donaldson, 2008.
S. M. Schmutz and T. G. Berryere (2007). Genes affecting coat colour and pattern in domestic dogs: a review. International Society for Animal Genetics, Animal Genetics, 38, 539–549.
The Domestic Dog: Its Evolution, Behavior and Interactions with People. Edited by James Serpell, 2016.
Foraita, M., Howell, T. & Bennett, P. (2021). Environmental influences on development of executive functions in dogs. Animal Cognition. 24, 655–675.
The Behavioural Biology of Dogs. Edited by Per Jensen, 2007.
Dietz, L., Arnold, A. K., Goerlich-Jansson, V. C., & Vinke, C. M. (2018). The importance of early life experiences for the development of behavioural disorders in domestic dogs. Behaviour, 155(2-3), 83-114.
Erik Wilsson (2016). Nature and nurture—How different conditions affect the behavior of dogs, Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 16, 45-52.
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