<p>Resilience In Dogs? Lessons From Other Species</p>

Abstract

What are the key factors of psychological resilience in dogs? Why do some individuals recover swiftly from neglect, abuse or several years of harsh kennel environments, while some seem to be permanently traumatized by much milder adverse experiences? Resilience is a concept seldom discussed in canine studies; however, many studies have identified risk factors (both environmental and genetic) for developing anxieties, aggression or other behavioral problems. These studies also indicate several factors that may act as protective agents against life adversities. In this paper, I will present some of the most commonly identified key factors of resilience in other species and discuss what has been found in dogs. This paper is an attempt to raise focus on the positive key factors in a dog's life that are important for dog welfare, a healthy psychological outcome and are also important building blocks of a happy and well-behaving pet.

A Multidimensional Evaluation of the Factors in the Animal Welfare Assessment Grid (AWAG) That Are Associated with, and Predictive of, Behaviour Disorders in Dogs

“…Dogs assessed to have behaviour disorders scored poorer in their response to stressors (resilience) [33] and they encountered stressful stimuli more often than healthy dogs. Similar to dogs displaying aggression, the response to a perceived threat and the time it takes to recover may be influenced by genetics and their experiences as a young dog.…”

“…To our knowledge, there is extremely limited research examining resilience in dogs and the association of social interactions. In humans, engagement in social activity promotes higher levels of emotional stability and resilience [54] and it is suggested that positive interaction with dog caregivers through activities such as play may increase dog resilience and their ability to cope with stress [33]. When dogs have strong and secure attachments to their caregivers, they may develop better coping mechanisms to stressful events [55].…”

Potential Benefits of a ‘Trauma-Informed Care’ Approach to Improve the Assessment and Management of Dogs Presented with Anxiety Disorders

“…The developing puppy is, however, more vulnerable than an adult dog due to their behavioural immaturity and pliability [34,35] and the absence of resilience [36]. The experiences and behaviour of dogs during their first year of life are crucial in determining their later behaviour and temperament [37]. A maladaptive response to stress during puppyhood, referred to as a toxic stress response [38], plays an important role in the pathway from early adversity to physical and behavioural pathologies.…”