The Influence of Breed, Sex, Origin and Housing Conditions on Undesirable Behaviors in Ancient Dog Breeds

Abstract

Abnormal repetitive behaviors often pose problems for dog owners. Such behaviors are considered undesirable if they pose a nuisance or a danger to humans. Ancient dog breeds are intelligent, sociable, active, boisterous and need regular outdoor exercise, but are also independent and reluctant to follow commands. This study aimed to identify factors (breed, sex, origin, housing conditions) and situations that contribute to undesirable behaviors, such as aggression towards humans and other dogs/animals, separation anxiety, excessive vocalization, and oral and locomotion behaviors in Akita, Alaskan Malamute, Basenji, Samoyed and Siberian husky. Undesirable behaviors in dogs were analyzed based on the results of 897 questionnaires. Breed influenced aggressive behavior towards other dogs/animals, aggression towards humans, undesirable oral and locomotion behaviors, and excessive vocalization. Aggressive behaviors were more prevalent in females than in males. Housing conditions were linked with aggression towards other dogs/animals, aggression at mealtime, and excessive vocalization. Undesirable behaviors were most frequently reported in Akitas, Siberian huskies and Samoyeds, and they were more prevalent in males than in females and dogs living indoors with or without access to a backyard. Aggressive behaviors towards other dogs and animals, excessive vocalization and undesirable motor activities posed the greatest problems in ancient dog breeds.

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“…And it is mainly males that are more affected. Since our study also included primarily Huskies, our results support the data of Wójcik and Powierza [50].…”

“…Studies on behavioural problems in Huskies are scarce, they represent only 0.43% of the populations studied and yet show the same behavioural problems as the most popular dog breeds [ 50 ].…”

“…Likewise, aggression towards other dogs may also be related to leash handling. Especially these agile dogs like Huskies and Akitas seem not to be very secure on a short leash and in some cases their aggressive behaviour could also be an expression of their insecurity or, in case of poor bond with the dog owner, their defence of owner [ 50 , 53 ].…”

“…Likewise, aggression towards other dogs may also be related to leash handling. Especially these agile dogs like Huskies and Akitas seem not to be very secure on a short leash and in some cases their aggressive behaviour could also be an expression of their insecurity or, in case of poor bond with the dog owner, their defence of owner [50,53]. Furthermore, the individual personality and handling by the owner have a significant effect on the dog's behaviour and can promote aggression under certain circumstances [54].…”