Impulsivity and Behaviour Problems in Dogs: A Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory Perspective

Abstract

1617 behavioural measures (Brady et al., 2018). However, the scale also provides three independent 44 sub-factors, which can reflect distinct nuanced features of dog impulsivity. Factor 1, 'Behaviour 45Regulation' factor provides a more focused measure of impulsivity: high scores relates to having 46 little control over a response to stimuli, little thinking before acting and being impatient, on the 47

Use of the Milan Pet Quality of Life Instrument (MPQL) to Measure Pets’ Quality of Life during COVID-19

“…As predicted, as the pet’s sensitivity to the flight–fight–freeze system (RST-FFFS) and to the behavioural inhibition system (RST-BIS) subdomains increased, their physical and psychological QoL declined. High sensitivity to BIS predicts individual predisposition for anxiety [ 46 ], while high sensitivity to FFFS predicts individual predisposition for avoidance behaviours in dogs [ 27 ]. Our findings may indicate that FFFS affects the expression of physical discomfort-related negative affect in cats and dogs, as has been observed in humans [ 47 ].…”

“…The pets’ personalities were measured using a reinforcement sensitivity theory scale, originally developed in English for dogs [ 27 ]. The questionnaire consisted of 21 items on a 5-point Likert scale, which described the three RST domains, BAS, BIS, and FFFS.…”

“…For this reason, we used a novel QoL instrument, the Milan Pet Quality of Life (MPQL) tool, on the basis of existing literature. Given the link between fearful and aggressive personality traits and avoidance behaviour in dogs [ 27 ], and the relationship between dogs and owners’ personality and the development of behaviour problems [ 28 ], we argue that, when looking at quality of life, it is important to take into account both the pet and the owner’s personality in a way that favours cross-species comparison.…”

“…Human predisposition for the activation of the RST subdomains can be measured through a psychometric scale for adult participants, such as the RST Personality Questionnaire (RST-PQ) [ 30 ]. Recently, a scale for the measurement of RST subdomains in dogs was developed to be completed by their owner or caregiver (RSTPQ-Dog) [ 27 ].…”

An ecological approach to personality: Psychological traits as drivers and consequences of active perception

“…The bats demonstrate recognizable individual differences in their affordance‐refining behaviors. Approach‐like tendencies have been observed in a variety of species; chimpanzees (Latzman et al., 2016, 2017), dogs (Piotti et al., 2018; Wright et al., 2012), cats (Bennett et al., 2017), birds (great tits, Exnerová et al., 2010; superb fairywrens, Jacques‐Hamilton et al., 2017), rhinoceroses (Carlstead et al., 1999), octopuses (Sinn, Perrin, et al., 2001), and sharks (Finger et al., 2016). There is also evidence of intra‐species variability in consistent Approach‐like behavior in less frequently studied invertebrates (Kralj‐Fišer & Schuett, 2014), such as Old Field Jumping Spiders (Sweeney et al., 2013), Mustard Leaf Beetles (Tremmel & Müller, 2013), Firebugs (Gyuris et al., 2012), and even Giant Sea Anemones (Hensley et al., 2012).…”