Your dog remembers what you did
Researchers found that dogs can recall a person's complex actions, even when they don't expect to be tested. The study used the 'Do as I Do' training method to demonstrate this ability.
Dogs
Articles tagged with Dogs
The power of expectation can restrain hyper-emotional memories in the brain
A neural circuit in the amygdala processes pain-related signals to set emotional memory strength and expectation levels. Disrupting this circuit can lead to hyper-emotional memories, such as those experienced by individuals with PTSD. The study suggests that similar circuits may perturb expectations in anxious people.
Bat fatalities at wind farms prove unpredictable
Researchers found that costly ecological impact assessments failed to protect bats from fatal collisions with spinning blades. The study highlights the challenge of establishing with certainty the effect of major developments before they occur.
Age-old secret that Hollywood celebrities try to keep from you has been uncovered
Researchers used CT scans to investigate the origin of pre-mammalian therapsids' distinctive canines, finding they were not used for fighting but for display behavior. The study suggests sexual selection played a crucial role in the evolution of mammals, dating back 300 million years.
Discovery of new bacteria complicates problem with salmon poisoning in dogs
Researchers at Oregon State University have identified another bacterium that can cause symptoms similar to salmon poisoning in dogs, complicating the problem. The new discovery makes it clear that dogs are not immune to salmon poisoning after a single infection and treatment.
Rabies vaccine effective even after warm storage
A WSU-led research team found that a commonly used rabies vaccine produces the same protective antibodies in dogs after being stored for six months at warmer temperatures. This could lead to improved vaccination coverage in hard-to-reach areas of Africa and Asia, reducing the likelihood of rabies returning to communities.
Psychological science explores the minds of dogs
Research on dogs' cognition reveals their ability to comprehend human communicative cues and recognize individual faces, but also limited spatial memory and numerical discrimination. The field is still in its infancy, with more studies needed to examine individual variability and complex behaviors.
SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateOct 24, 2016
Mizzou collaboration develops treatment for canine megaesophagus
Researchers at Mizzou have identified a defect in the lower esophageal sphincter as a potential cause of megaesophagus, a devastating disease in dogs. A new treatment approach uses video fluoroscopic swallow studies and therapies like Botox to improve symptoms and quality of life for affected dogs.
Shelter dogs that rest more during the day may show signs of improved welfare
A study published in PLOS ONE found that shelter dogs spending more time resting during the day displayed better behavioral signs of well-being and performed better on a food reward test. The researchers suggest setting aside quiet time for dogs to rest may be beneficial for their welfare.
Genome of fiercely protective Fonni's Dog reflects human history of Sardinia
The Fonni's Dog genome study sheds light on the history of Sardinia's fiercely protective canine breed, tracing its development through unregulated selection for behavior. The research also highlights the potential of isolated dog breeds as a powerful resource for finding genes that influence health and behavior.
Chihuahua-sized fossil 'beardogs' shed new light on evolution of dogs and their relatives
Two species of fossil carnivores, Gustafsonia and Angelacrtocyon, were reclassified as early members of the beardog family. These tiny creatures lived 38-37 million years ago in Texas and had features that suggest they may have eaten plants in addition to meat
Rapid spread of dog disease can be stopped with diligent infection control
A new guide provides evidence-based advice for controlling the rapid spread of dog diseases in group settings. The guidelines recommend measures such as frequent hand washing, disinfection, vaccination, and careful crowd management to prevent disease transmission.
SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·DateOct 5, 2016
Canine hyperactivity reflected in the blood count
Researchers found significant links between hyperactivity, lower blood phospholipid levels, and a negative correlation with tryptophan metabolites in hyperactive dogs. This study suggests that intestinal health impacts canine behavior and provides new clues for studying behavioral disorders.
Dog poop microbiome predicts canine inflammatory bowel disease
Researchers analyzed fecal samples from dogs with and without IBD, discovering a pattern of microbes indicative of the disease. The team used 16S rRNA sequencing to predict IBD diagnosis in dogs with high accuracy.
Historical coexistence with dingoes may explain bandicoot avoidance of domestic dogs
A study published in PLOS ONE found that bandicoots in Tasmania avoid domestic dogs due to thousands of years of dingo coexistence, but not cats. Tasmanian bandicoots have been exposed to dogs for 200 years, while dingoes arrived in mainland Australia 4000 years ago.
'Gambling' wolves take more risks than dogs
In a study published in Frontiers in Psychology, scientists found that wolves are consistently more prone to take risks when gambling for food than dogs. The researchers trained 7 wolves and 7 dogs to choose between a safe option and a risky option with uncertain rewards, and the results showed that wolves chose the risky option in 80%...
Dog brains process both what we say and how we say it
A study found that dogs use left and right hemispheres to process words and intonation, integrating information to arrive at a unified meaning. Dogs also activate their reward center when they hear praise in praising intonation, suggesting they can combine word and tone for correct interpretation.
Penn: Blinding disease in canines and humans shares causative gene, pathology
Researchers at Penn University have found remarkable similarities between human Leber congenital amaurosis and canine blinding disease Senior Løken Syndrome. The diseases share the same causative gene, NPHP5, and display similar pathology. The study's findings offer promising results for developing therapies to treat these conditions.
Dogs understand both vocabulary and intonation of human speech
A new study reveals dogs can distinguish both vocabulary words and the intonation of human speech through brain regions used by humans. The research found that dogs process vocabulary in the left hemisphere and intonation in the right hemisphere, mirroring human brain function.
Canine hereditary disorders are more widespread than previously indicated
A comprehensive study on canine hereditary disorders found that 1 in 6 dogs carried genetic variants for diseases, and 1 in 6 previously unreported variants were discovered in a specific breed. The research highlights the importance of collaboration between academia and industry to improve dog health and welfare.
Canine babesiosis outbreak in UK under control -- but needs monitoring
A recent study by the University of Liverpool has found that a potentially fatal tick-borne disease called canine babesiosis in the UK appears to be under control. The study analyzed data from 2015 and found a low background level of Babesia infection in the UK, with most cases linked to overseas travel.
Elbows of extinct marsupial lion suggest unique hunting style
The study found that the marsupial lion's elbow joint had a unique rotational capacity, similar to arboreal mammals, but also features not seen in living climbers. The researchers suggest this allowed the animal to use its dew claw to kill prey. The incisors were blunt and functioned better for gripping than piercing flesh.
A dog's dilemma: Do canines prefer praise or food?
A new study published in Social, Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience suggests that many dogs prefer praise from their owners over food. The study, led by Gregory Berns at Emory University, used brain-imaging data and behavioral experiments to investigate canine reward preferences.
Frankfurter fraud: Finding out what's in your hot dog
Researchers create technique to identify pairs of short DNA sequences from beef, buffalo, and pork in hot dogs, providing a more reliable approach than existing methods. The study found that all 'beef' hot dogs contained buffalo meat, highlighting the need for accurate food testing.
First validated canine behavioral genetics findings of nine fear and aggression traits in dogs
Researchers at Nationwide Children's Hospital identified approximately 12 genes associated with fear and aggression in dogs, distinct from those found in humans. The study has potential implications for veterinary behavioral medicine and human anxiety disorders.
Study shows rapid decline in male dog fertility, with potential environmental causes
A study of stud dogs over 26 years found a significant decline in sperm quality, with chemicals in dog food and testes contributing to the issue. This may offer insight into human semen quality decline, as dogs share similar environments and exhibit similar responses to therapies.
Labrador study offers vets clues on why dogs' tails lose their wag
A recent study suggests that Labrador Retrievers may be more susceptible to limber tail due to their genetic predisposition and exposure to cold climates. The research also found that swimming was not a significant risk factor for the condition, contradicting previous speculation.
Scientists warn about health of English bulldog
The English bulldog's extreme physical changes, achieved through human-directed selection, have led to significant loss of genetic diversity, particularly in immune response genes. This reduced diversity makes it challenging to improve the breed's health from within its existing gene pool.
Penn study verifies human gene therapy in model of rare metabolic disorder
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have shown that early exposure to the human IDUA protein increased immune tolerance, allowing for widespread expression of the enzyme and resolution of brain lesions. The study informs the planning of first-in-human trials for MPS I treatment.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Genetics and Metabolism·DateJul 28, 2016
Scientists test nanoparticle drug delivery in dogs with osteosarcoma
Researchers at University of Illinois successfully tested nanoparticle drug delivery in dogs with naturally occurring bone cancers, which are similar to human bone tumors. The study demonstrated anti-cancer activity and tolerance to high doses without toxicity in the dogs.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 25, 2016
Is the agile wallaby man's new best friend?
A new study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science ranks the suitability of mammals as pets, with Agile Wallaby, Sika Deer, Tamar Wallaby, Llama, and Asian Palm Civet making the top five list. The research developed a methodology to assess mammal suitability for domestic ownership, considering behavioral needs and welfare risks.
Thumb-sucking and nail-biting have a positive side
Research published in Pediatrics found that children who engage in thumb-sucking or nail-biting habits have a lower risk of developing allergic sensitization. The study, which followed over 1,000 New Zealand children from age 5 to 32, also found no association between these habits and the development of asthma or hay fever.
Doggy paddles help dogs to stay on the move
Labradors with elbow dysplasia showed improved mobility and stride characteristics after hydrotherapy, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic tool. The study also found benefits in healthy control groups, indicating swimming can be beneficial for dogs.
This week in BMJ Case Reports: Infection from pet dog, pinworms, Indian herbal remedy
A woman was admitted to intensive care due to a rare infection believed to be transmitted by her Italian greyhound, while a teenage girl had pinworms in her appendix. A 26-year-old student also developed lead poisoning from taking Indian Ayurvedic herbal medicines.
Diabetes sniffer dogs? 'Scent' of hypos could aid development of new tests
Researchers discovered that isoprene, a common natural chemical found in human breath, increases significantly at hypoglycemia levels. This finding may lead to the development of new tests for detecting hypoglycaemia and reducing its risk of life-threatening complications.
A common enemy: Through clinical trials, veterinarian fights cancer in animals, humans
A veterinarian is conducting clinical trials to treat cancers in dogs, cats, and other companion animals. The research has the potential to provide important information for human cancer patients, with canine cancers being genetically similar to those in humans.
Filarial nematodes taking a fancy to Austria
Austrian researchers found that nematode species previously limited to Southern Europe have spread to the country, infecting dogs and potentially affecting people. Monitoring of mosquitoes and wild animals is crucial to slow the spread of parasites.
SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJun 10, 2016
Witnesses can catch criminals by smell
Research published in Frontiers in Psychology found that people who witnessed a crime can identify criminals through their distinctive scent. Human nose-witnesses were able to correctly identify perpetrators in almost 70% of cases, showing promise for forensic applications.
Did ancient wolves befriend humans twice?
A new study reveals a deep split in the genetic data of ancient European and East Asian dogs, suggesting two independent dog domestication events occurred thousands of years apart. The findings support the idea that dogs were domesticated separately in Europe and Central Asia, with some breeds showing mixed ancestry from both regions.
Dogs were domesticated not once, but twice ... in different parts of the world
A new paper proposes that dogs were domesticated independently from two distinct wolf populations on opposite sides of the Eurasian continent. Genetic analysis reveals a genetic separation between modern dog populations in East Asia and Europe.
Crowdsourcing contest using data from people, dogs advances epileptic seizure forecasting
A crowdsourcing contest analyzing brain data from humans and dogs improved epileptic seizure forecasting. Over half of algorithms performed better than random predictions, accurately predicting more than 70% of seizures.
Penn Vet research suggests a way to identify animals at risk of blood clots
Researchers at Penn Vet found that a common blood test may also indicate hypercoagulability in animals. A study of hundreds of dogs found that shortened prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time were associated with clinical signs of hypercoagulability, including clots and suspected pulmonary thromboembolism.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care·DateMay 19, 2016
New insights into human rare disorders with dogs
A study by the University of Helsinki reveals three novel canine genes associated with human rare disorders, including Caffey disease and van den Ende-Gupta syndrome. The discovery highlights the potential of comparative research for developing diagnostics and treatments.
A shaggy dog story: The contagious cancer that conquered the world
A study on the 'canine transmissible venereal tumour' reveals how this contagious cancer, dating back to 11,000 years ago, has spread across the globe by 'stealing' DNA from its host. The research shows that cancer cells can shuffle or recombine DNA from different mitochondria.
Slips of the lip stay all in the family
A new study from Duke University reveals that misnaming follows predictable patterns, with people often using relationship categories and phonetic similarities to mix up names. The study found that family members frequently call other family members by the name of the family dog, suggesting a special bond between humans and canines.
Second gene modifies effect of mutation in a dog model of ALS
Scientists have identified a modifier gene that affects the risk of developing Canine Degenerative Myelopathy (DM), a disease similar to ALS in humans. Genome-wide association analysis revealed a haplotype within the SP110 nuclear body protein gene associated with increased DM risk.
Rare human disease found in dogs
A rare form of pulmonary hypertension has been discovered in dogs, with similar symptoms and potentially useful as a model for human PVOD. The study, published in Veterinary Pathology, could lead to new insights into the disease and its treatment options.
Dogs provide information about brain tumor development in humans
A recent study by Uppsala University researchers found that genetic analyses in dogs can identify genes linked to human brain tumors, specifically gliomas. The study identified three genes associated with glioma development in dogs, which are also present in humans and show reduced activity in tumor tissue.
Study of glioma susceptibility in dogs may yield insights for humans
A genome-wide association study of 39 dog breeds with gliomas identified three candidate genes associated with the tumor's development. These genes - CAMKK2, P2RX7 and DENR - have also been linked to cancer in humans. Further research into these genes may provide insights for potential treatments of glioma in both species.
Fossil dog represents a new species, Penn paleontology grad student finds
A doctoral student at the University of Pennsylvania has identified a new species of fossil dog, Cynarctus wangi, found in Maryland. The specimen, dating back to 12 million years ago, represents a distinct species from the extinct subfamily Borophaginae.
Why vultures matter -- and what we lose if they're gone
The primary threat to vultures is the presence of toxins in carrion they consume, leading to declines or extinctions of most vulture species worldwide. In their absence, other scavengers proliferate, causing a cascading effect on food webs and human populations.
Why Labrador retrievers are more interested in food than other breeds
A study found that Labrador retrievers with a genetic variation in the POMC gene are more likely to be obese and food-motivated. The deletion affects dogs' ability to produce neuropeptides, leading to increased hunger and food begging behavior.
Genetic variant may help explain why Labradors are prone to obesity
A genetic variant in Labradors has been identified as a key factor in their obesity-prone nature. The POMC gene affects how the brain recognizes hunger and feelings of fullness after meals.
New tech uses hardware, software to train dogs more efficiently
Researchers at NC State University developed a system that uses sensors in custom dog harnesses to monitor the dog's posture and body language. The algorithm triggered rewards when the dog exhibited the desired behavior, resulting in a 96% accurate rate.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalInternational Journal of Human-Computer Studies·DateMay 2, 2016
Analysis of dog genome will provide insight into human disease
Scientists have identified 91 novel microRNAs in the dog genome, which can help understand their role in regulating gene expression and potentially lead to breakthroughs in human diseases. The discovery provides a significant opportunity for future studies on biomedicine, evolution, and animal domestication.
Changes in 'microbiome' during canine atopic dermatitis could lead to antibiotic-free therapies for human and canine disease
Researchers found that dogs with atopic dermatitis have a sharp decrease in skin bacterial diversity, leading to impaired barrier function and increased Staphylococcus species. Antibiotic therapy restored normal levels, suggesting a correlation between skin barrier dysfunction and bacterial overgrowth.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateApr 25, 2016
Senior adults can see health benefits from dog ownership
A study found that older adults who form strong bonds with their dogs tend to exercise longer and more often, leading to improved physical health. Additionally, dog walking offers a means to socialize with pet owners and others, making it an accessible way for seniors to stay active and connected.
Surface mutation lets canine parvovirus jump to other species
A surface mutation in canine parvovirus (CPV) allows it to infect hosts of different species, including wild forest-dwelling animals like raccoons. This critical step increases the virus's ability to spread.
Speaking 2 languages for the price of 1
Research suggests that bilingual speakers can avoid language-switching costs by consistently using the same language throughout a conversation or task. In experiments, participants were shown to respond faster when they stuck with a language rather than switching mid-sentence.
Understanding the scent of death
Researchers compare odor of human remains with dead animals to identify signature smells. They hope an artificial nose can help rescuers find bodies and aid law enforcement search for homicide victims.