Articles tagged with Dogs
Researchers have developed tiny bilirubin-filled capsules that can improve the survival rates of transplanted pancreatic islet cells. This breakthrough has implications for treating Type 1 diabetes in both canine and human patients, with a potential treatment program for dogs that could lead to improved treatments for humans.
A recent study published in The BMJ found no evidence that pet ownership is linked to improved physical or psychological functioning in older adults. In fact, researchers analyzed data from over 8,700 adults and found no association between pet ownership and biomarkers of healthy aging.
A new study by Vanderbilt University researchers found that dogs have significantly more cortical neurons than cats, indicating a higher level of intelligence. Dogs possess about 530 million neurons, while cats have around 250 million, suggesting that dogs are brainier than cats.
Researchers found that dogs exhibit mouth-licking behavior in response to visually perceived anger, suggesting a form of communication with humans. The study suggests that domestication may have selected this behavioral trait, indicating dogs' potential understanding of emotional information.
The team is developing a new technique to use human actor movements to drive four-legged animal characters, making animations more realistic. The project involves collecting motion capture data from various dog breeds at the Bath Cats and Dogs Home.
PAC-1, a cancer drug that targets procaspase-3, has been approved for use in a phase Ib trial of patients with anaplastic astrocytoma and glioblastoma multiforme. The drug has shown promise in pet dogs with brain cancers and is being tested in combination with temozolomide.
A mutation in the SCL24A4 gene is identified as the cause of enamel hypoplasia in Samoyed dogs, leading to discolored and malformed teeth. The study found that breeders can eliminate the faulty gene through selective breeding.
A new study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science has investigated three common hydration methods for sniffer dogs. The research found that dogs drink more and are more hydrated when given a chicken-flavored electrolyte drink compared to plain water or electrolyte injections, making it a safe and effective hydration alternative.
Researchers found that oxytocin enhances dogs' interest in smiling faces and reduces their emotional response to angry ones. The study used eye-tracking devices and pupil measurements to evaluate the dogs' emotional states, providing new insights into canine cognition.
A Swedish study of over 3.4 million individuals found that dog owners had a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and death. Dog ownership was particularly protective for singles, with a 33% reduced risk of death and 11% reduced risk of myocardial infarction.
A study published in Veterinary Record shows that dexmedetomidine gel significantly reduces behaviors related to fear and anxiety in dogs during fireworks displays. The treatment has been found to be safe and effective, with 72% of dogs showing good or excellent treatment effect.
A genetic study of dingoes found the species likely migrated to Australia in two separate waves via a former land bridge with Papua New Guinea. The study recommends treating genetically distinct populations as different groups for management and conservation purposes.
Two studies present evidence suggesting that exposure to dogs during pregnancy and early childhood may reduce the risk of developing eczema and asthma. While exposure to dog allergens can exacerbate symptoms in children with allergies, non-allergen-related factors associated with dogs may provide a protective effect.
A team of researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Madison reports that in long-lived animals, renewed but thin myelin sheaths are enough to restore the impaired nervous system. The findings confirm that thin myelin sheaths support nerve fiber function and survival, providing a potential marker for remyelination.
New research from the University of Portsmouth found that dogs produce more facial expressions when humans are looking at them. The study, led by Dr Juliane Kaminski, showed that dogs use these expressions to communicate with humans and not just due to excitement. Brow raising was the most commonly used expression in this research.
Researchers found that wolves excelled in cooperative behavior compared to dogs, even when raised together under similar conditions. The study suggests that domestication may not have increased tolerance and cooperation among dogs as expected.
A world-first study published in The Lancet Psychiatry suggests that basic mental health training for managers can significantly improve workers' mental wellbeing. The study found a 18% decrease in work-related sickness absence amongst those whose manager received the training, with a return on investment of $9.98 for each dollar spent.
A genetic mutation has been identified as a key factor in the development of intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) in short-legged dog breeds, including dachshunds and French bulldogs. The discovery provides a valuable tool for owners, breeders, and veterinarians to mitigate the risk of IVDD and related spinal cord disease.
A new study reveals how rabies induces frenzied behavior in animals by binding to and inhibiting brain receptors, leading to the transmission of the disease. The research provides a molecular mechanism for this behavior change, shedding light on why rabies is devastating in poor, rural regions.
Researchers identified genes linked to insulin secretion, immunity, and ultraviolet protection that showed adaptive selection in African dogs. The study found functional verification of ADGRE1's role in providing host immunity to Plasmodium infection.
A University of New South Wales researcher has uncovered documents that suggest Teddy Evans, Scott's second-in-command, may have been responsible for his leader's death and that of four others. Evans' actions, including stealing rations and failing to pass on orders, are believed to have contributed to the tragedy.
A study led by the University of Arizona found that dogs with leash aggression had higher levels of total vasopressin, while those without exhibited higher oxytocin and oxytocin-to-vasopressin ratios. This supports the idea that oxytocin may help inhibit aggression in dogs.
Researchers funded by Morris Animal Foundation found that the rabies vaccine reduces mortality from all causes in dogs by 56 percent, particularly among young dogs. This non-specific protective effect may have implications for human medicine as well.
A recent international multi-centre weight study found that overweight dogs can lose up to 11% of their bodyweight through specially-formulated diets. The study, published in PLOS ONE, also revealed improvements in activity and quality of life among dog owners.
Researchers used 3-D scans of fossil canid mandibles to determine whether they belonged to dogs or wolves. The study found that the skull changed shape but the evolution of the mandible lagged behind, making it unreliable for identifying early dog fossils.
A new study from Linköping University finds that dogs' willingness to collaborate with humans is linked to genetic variations in the oxytocin receptor gene. The researchers discovered a possible explanation for why dogs differ in their ability to work together, which may have contributed to human selection during domestication.
Researchers describe three cases of eyeworm infection in UK dogs with recent travel to mainland Europe. The parasite, Thelazia callipaeda, is found in fruit flies and can infect dogs, cats, and humans, posing a significant threat to the UK canine population.
A study by researchers at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna found that wolves demonstrate a better understanding of cause and effect than dogs. In experiments, wolves correctly identified causal cues such as noise produced by an object containing food when shaken, whereas dogs did not.
A new Mayo Clinic study found that sleeping with dogs can help people sleep better, but only if they're in the bedroom, not in bed. The study of 40 healthy adults and their dogs over five months showed that having pets nearby can provide comfort and security.
Researchers developed a drug treatment that prevents bladder wall remodeling, significantly improving bladder compliance in dogs with spinal cord injuries. The study found long-term benefits for animals treated with the broad spectrum MMP inhibitor GM6001.
Researchers at the University of Liverpool have created the first evidence-based growth standards chart for dogs, allowing veterinarians to assess and monitor growth in canine patients. The study used data from over six million dogs visiting Banfield Pet Hospitals, resulting in five weight ranges with separate male and female curves.
A study using scat-sniffing research dogs helped scientists develop a plan to save reclusive jaguars, pumas, and other endangered carnivores by creating habitat corridors that connect protected areas. The model provides maximum habitat connectivity for all species while minimizing costs through privately owned lands and communities.
A new research study used a 'sniff-test' to evaluate dogs' ability to recognize themselves, confirming the hypothesis of self-cognition proposed by Dr. Cazzolla Gatti. The experiment found that dogs investigate their own odours longer when modified in an olfactory mirror test.
A University of Liverpool study found that dog walking motivates owners to do so due to feelings of happiness and well-being. Owners' motivations are contingent on their dog's enjoyment during the walk.
Scientists have found that trained dogs are more successful in detecting hermit beetle larvae than traditional methods. Using trained dogs can locate new populations, confirm the presence of target species, and map colonized trees accurately and efficiently.
Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed a chimeric anti-PD-L1 antibody that induces immune responses and tumor regression in dogs with malignant cancers. The antibody targets PD-L1-positive cancers, including oral malignant melanoma and undifferentiated sarcoma.
Researchers found that puppies raised by attentive mothers were less likely to succeed in training programs. Those whose mothers nursed more often while standing up had lower graduation rates as adult guide dogs. The study suggests that minor obstacles can help offspring succeed later in life.
Researchers found that puppies raised by doting mothers were less likely to succeed in a training program to become guide dogs. The study suggests that guide-dog-training organizations can better identify dogs who are more likely to succeed by understanding the impact of maternal style on offspring behavior.
A new study of over 2,200 children finds no link between having a dog or cat and improved mental or physical health. While children from pet-owning families tend to have better general health, the association disappears when adjusting for other variables.
A recent study published in Nature Communications found that all contemporary dogs have a common origin and emerged through a single domestication process of wolves. The research team analyzed the DNA of two prehistoric dogs from Germany and found that their genomes were the probable ancestors of modern European dogs.
A study published in PLOS ONE identified the progression of Lafora disease, a devastating form of epilepsy that affects up to 50 young children worldwide. Collaboration with dog owners helped researchers develop effective treatment for both humans and canines.
A UCLA researcher calculates that feeding pets contributes to climate change, with dogs and cats responsible for 25-30% of meat consumption's environmental impact in the US. The nation's 163 million dogs and cats eat about 19% as many calories as humans, with premium pet foods often containing more animal products.
Research by University of Cambridge suggests that external features cannot accurately predict breathing difficulties in pugs, French bulldogs and bulldogs. Breeders should focus on breeding for open nostrils and avoiding dogs with short muzzles, wide faces and thick necks to reduce the risk of Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome.
A new study suggests that infants are able to recognize patterns of behavior and make judgments about people's preferences as early as 8 months old. The research found that babies look for consistent patterns of behavior and adjust their expectations when they encounter inconsistent choices.
German Shepherd Dogs are predisposed to musculoskeletal disorders due to selective breeding, with osteoarthritis being the most common condition. The study analyzed data from over half a million dogs and found that GSDs are more likely to die from complications arising from these conditions.
Researchers at Oregon State University found nearly half of dogs with osteosarcoma had elevated total serum cholesterol levels, leading to longer survival times. Dogs with high cholesterol had a median survival time of 455 days, compared to 345 days for those with normal cholesterol.
Researchers developed a gene therapy using microdystrophin to treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy in dogs. The treatment restored muscle function and stabilized clinical symptoms for over 2 years. This breakthrough could lead to a new treatment for children with the disease.
Researchers found that dog owners who walk their pets regularly are more active and less sedentary on rainy days than those without dogs. Dog ownership is linked to increased physical activity levels, reduced daily sitting time, and improved health outcomes.
A new study found that dog walking increases physical activity levels in older adults, even on cold and wet days. Dog owners were sedentary for 30 minutes less per day, on average.
A recent study found that air travel stress has no effect on search and rescue dog job performance, but alters the canine microbiome. Despite physiological impacts, dogs overcome stress to save lives.
A recent study suggests that climate change is impacting the survival rates of African wild dog pups, with warmer temperatures leading to fewer pups being raised. The research found that high temperatures caused packs to spend less time hunting and resulted in higher pup mortality rates.
A new study reveals that domesticated dogs and humans share a common genetic basis for social behavior, with unique genetic insertions associated with human-directed social behaviors in dogs. This finding challenges the conventional view of dog domestication and highlights the evolutionary conservation of sociability across species.
Researchers at Oregon State University identified a genetic marker linked to Williams-Beuren syndrome, a disorder characterized by hypersocial behavior. The study found domesticated dogs exhibit an exaggerated motivation to seek social contact compared to wolves, leading to prolonged proximity and gazing at humans.
Researchers found that hairless dogs lack specific lingual cusps on their molars and premolars due to FOXI3 gene variation. The study suggests the gene may also play a role in human tooth morphology.
A study by Tufts University researchers found significant changes in miRNA expression levels in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) and congestive heart failure. The study identified new genomic biomarkers, including exosomal miR-181c and miR-495, which could provide insight into diagnosis and therapies for MMVD and human ...
Researchers surveyed an environmentally protected area in southeastern Brazil and found over 1% of dogs and some opossums carry the parasite responsible for deadly leishmaniasis. The study also identified six species of sand flies that can transmit the disease.
Researchers found genetically diverse strains of C. difficile in soil samples from children's and dogs' sandboxes in Madrid. The presence of certain strains with increased toxin production poses a significant threat to human and animal health.
A new approach to training explosive-detecting dogs uses real-time vapor analysis to accurately measure the vapor plumes from explosives that trigger a canine response. This method helps differentiate between correct and incorrect identifications, reducing cross-contamination errors.
Researchers have found that wheat middlings and red dog, two coproducts of the wheat milling process, have varying levels of protein digestibility when fed to pigs. The study suggests that red dog contains more easily digested amino acids due to its lower fiber content.
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have developed a questionnaire-style decision tool to predict young dogs' likelihood of succeeding in guide dog training. The Puppy Training Supervisor Questionnaire (PTSQ) accurately identified 16.9% of dogs, helping trainers assess suitability early and improve training processes.