Articles tagged with Dogs
A new study reveals that humans, dogs, and pigs share similar brain responses to vocal sounds and calls from their own species, indicating an evolutionarily ancient mammalian heritage. This discovery sheds light on the deep roots of voice perception and highlights the value of studying companion animals to better understand human biology.
A new diagnostic system has been developed to identify ADHD-like symptoms in family dogs. The system combines owner-rated questionnaires with a short behavioral test to assess inattention, excessive activity, and impulsivity levels.
Golden retrievers are at risk of a fatal heart condition due to a genetic mutation in the Cardiac Troponin-I gene. The study, published in Circulation: Genomic and Precision Medicine, identified a single genetic variant that causes hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and sudden death in dogs.
A UK study found that plant-based dog foods did not meet nutritional guidelines for iodine and B-vitamins, but experts say supplements or formulation changes can address these gaps. The research analyzed 31 dry dog foods, including meat-based and veterinary options, and found none met European Pet Food Industry Federation standards.
A new study published in PLOS One found that vegan diets for dogs sold in the UK provide similar nutrition to meat-based diets. The study highlights the importance of a balanced and nutritional diet for canine companions, emphasizing that every dog is unique and dietary needs vary.
The study identified patterns in T cell receptor repertoires that are specific to both individual dogs and breeds of dog. This could lead to the development of simple blood tests to inform treatment and diagnostic decisions.
Dr. Jake Johnson explains the challenges of studying canine cocaine toxicosis, including limited data and messy clinical reality. He shares insights on diagnosing symptoms, prevention measures, and the importance of owner honesty in seeking veterinary help.
A study of over 26,000 dogs reveals which diseases tend to co-occur and provide insights into canine healthcare. The network analysis suggests new connections between diseases, such as low iron and protein in the urine, and helps guide veterinary practice.
A recent survey of 178 dogs in 10 states found that two-thirds consume higher-than-recommended levels of heavy metals in their drinking water. The study highlights the need for further research on the long-term health effects of these exposures, particularly in rural areas where private wells are common.
Researchers found that short-nosed dogs are calmer and less reactive, but this benefit is often masked by lack of training. Consistent training is crucial for their good traits to shine through.
A new study led by Texas A&M University found that popular sporting group breeds are more likely to be motivated by food, while owners in urban environments and with multiple dogs are also at risk. The study emphasizes the importance of tailored weight management strategies for dogs and their families.
Research found that dog TV viewing habits differ by personality, with excitable dogs more likely to follow on-screen objects and fearful dogs reacting to car horns or doorbells. The study, published in Scientific Reports, suggests that engaging with TV could provide dogs with an enriching experience.
A recent study by researchers at Kyoto University found that dogs across all age groups did not exhibit preferences for generous or selfish individuals, despite their ability to eavesdrop on another dog's interactions. This suggests that reputation formation may be more complex than previously thought in animals like dogs.
A study led by Virginia Tech found that volunteer dog-handler teams can effectively detect the elusive egg masses of the spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect damaging farms and forests across the eastern and central United States. With proper training, dog owners can turn their pets into powerful partners for conservation.
Researchers trained two dogs to distinguish between sebum swabs from people with and without Parkinson's disease, achieving sensitivity of up to 80% and specificity of up to 98%. The study suggests that dogs could help develop a quick, non-invasive method for early detection.
A new study found that acquiring a dog during the COVID-19 lockdown had a short-lived boost in cheerfulness but no long-term positive effects on human well-being. Losing a pet also did not leave a lasting impact on its former owners' well-being.
A new study on ancient dog DNA shows that dogs slowly spread southward alongside early farming societies in the Americas. The research found that all pre-contact dogs in Central and South America descended from a single maternal lineage.
A study found that six breeds are significantly more likely to get diarrhea than generic crossbreeds, while two breeds are less likely. Most dogs recover quickly from diarrhea, but around 38% require antibiotic treatment.
Research suggests that interacting with dogs can modify a child's risk of developing atopic eczema, potentially due to the impact on immune cells. The findings provide new insights into the complex relationship between genetics and environment in the development of eczema.
Researchers used canine DNA to identify over 15 genes linked to gastric cancer in humans, offering promising new avenues for research. The study suggests genetic testing could help diagnose the disease earlier and guide breeding decisions to reduce disease prevalence.
A growing trend of dog parenting reveals opportunities for humans to fulfill a nurturing drive without the demands of raising biological offspring. Dog ownership offers emotional connection, social support, and purpose, similar to those experienced by parents.
Studies from North Carolina State University explored biomarkers and genetic markers for Chiari-like malformation in Cavalier King Charles spaniels, identifying Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide as a potential therapeutic target. Elevated CGRP levels were found in dogs with CM and painful symptoms, but not correlated with syringomyelia.
Researchers have developed a low-cost, nanotechnology-based praziquantel formulation that increases efficacy and reduces dosage for treating worms. The new formulation, requiring only half the usual dose, demonstrates greater efficacy in eliminating schistosomes than the active ingredient alone.
Researchers identified a genetic mutation in Turkish Pointers that distinguishes their forked nose, linking it to cases of human orofacial clefts. The study suggests that the mutation of PDFGRA gene may be involved in some cases of human orofacial clefts.
Researchers at Texas A">&M found that dogs with meningiomas live longer with radiation therapy than surgery. Radiation nearly doubles average survival time in dogs with brain tumors, while surgery had an average of about 10 months.
A new study published in Scientific Reports reveals that audio quality severely affects dogs' ability to recognize and respond to recorded words. Dogs excelled at responding to direct human speech, but struggled with AIC buttons, which lost frequencies necessary for conveying human speech.
Scientists at Cornell University and Washington University found that selective breeding of domesticated cat and dog breeds has led to remarkable similarities in skull shape, including brachycephalic breeds. This phenomenon, known as convergence, has occurred within each species and between them, with flat faces and tilted muzzles.
A study found that dog owners rate their bond as the most satisfying, with dogs scoring high in nurturing and relationship security. However, there is a power imbalance towards the owner, with full control over the dog's decisions.
A study found that UK dog populations decreased by 0.9% annually from 1990 to 2021, with a rise in crossbreed and imported dogs. The research highlights concerns about inherited diseases due to limited genetic diversity in pedigree breeds.
A new brain imaging study found that age and brain shape significantly impact the strength of connections between olfactory brain regions in dogs. Younger dogs and those with elongated brains had stronger functional connectivities, while older dogs and rounder-headed individuals performed worse in smell tests.
Researchers found a strong correlation between the occurrence of dog and human valley fever cases. The study mapped positive results by location, showing valley fever spread from 2.4% of U.S. counties to 12.4% in 2022.
A new study found that more 'optimistic' medical detection dogs performed better overall on detection tasks, while 'pessimistic' dogs had higher scent detection specificity. The researchers suggest that judgment bias testing could be a screening tool for potential detection dogs.
New research found pet dogs disturb and directly harm wildlife, even when leashed, leading to reduced animal activity and avoided areas. Dog waste contributes to water pollution and inhibits plant growth.
Researchers at Texas A&M University found age and fecal score to be important factors for screening kennel-housed dogs for subclinical Giardia infections. Kennel-housed dogs under 18 months old were more likely to test positive, while hard stool was associated with negative test status.
The American Heart Association invites communities nationwide to walk together on National Walking Day to break the cycle of sedentary behavior. Regular walking can improve both physical and mental well-being, even in small steps.
New study finds park entrances in Dublin, Ireland, to be heavily contaminated with infective Toxocara canis eggs, posing a risk of zoonotic infection. The researchers call for increased measures to prevent dog feces disposal at these locations.
Research suggests that dog ownership is connected to declining birth rates, as people turn to dogs for emotional support and companionship. The theory proposes that the popularity of dogs is rooted in biological evolutionary causes, but has culturally escalated as human relationships are often damaged or absent.
Researchers are analyzing volatile chemicals emitted from grape leaves infected by a fungus called powdery mildew to improve training for vineyard canines. The study aims to identify key odor molecules that trigger the response in dogs, enabling more sensitive and accurate mildew identification.
A new study suggests that paricalcitol may help manage chronic kidney disease (CKD) in dogs by reducing renal secondary hyperparathyroidism and proteinuria. The treatment showed promise in stabilizing proteinuria, but raised questions about potential long-term effects on CKD progression.
A Bar-Ilan University study investigates brain activity of dogs during scent detection, unveiling crucial insights into their remarkable olfactory capabilities. The findings highlight the emotional and memory-related aspects of odor processing, particularly in the amygdala region.
A study by Washington State University found that therapy cats exhibit similar behavioral traits to therapy dogs, such as high sociability and attention-seeking. The research suggests that expanding AAS programs to include felines could make therapy more accessible to a wider range of people.
New research from Arizona State University reveals that humans often misunderstand their pet's emotional state and base it on the context of the event. The study found that people rely on external factors rather than observing the dog's behavior, leading to a deeper misunderstanding of canine emotions.
The study emphasizes the importance of awareness in preventing Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Veterinarians and doctors must learn to recognize symptoms, understand treatments, and prescribe antibiotics like doxycycline to prevent death and severe illness.
Researchers found that dogs carrying the genetic variant DENND1B had higher body fat content, while humans also carry this gene linked to obesity. The study highlights the importance of fundamental brain pathways in regulating appetite and body weight.
First-year college students who interacted with therapy dogs on campus experienced lower stress and depression levels, increased self-compassion, and improved mental well-being. The study suggests that unstructured access to therapy dogs can provide sustained mental health benefits.
A new study highlights the effectiveness of detector dogs in mitigating biosecurity risks posed by air passengers. The research found that dogs were particularly effective in detecting undeclared materials, including items linked to fruit fly outbreaks.
Researchers found that pandemic puppies, bought during the COVID-19 pandemic, had a greater burden of dog ownership, with higher costs and emotional challenges. Owners who reported problem behaviors, such as separation anxiety or aggression, also experienced a greater burden.
A study by Eötvös Loránd University found that Border Collies excelled in a simple olfactory task, beating breeds like Golden Retrievers and Hungarian Vizslas. The research revealed that genetic and environmental factors influence dogs' success in scent detection, contrary to expectations.
A new study analyzed 100 cases of Florida spot keratopathy (FSK), a condition characterized by white spots on the cornea. The research found that FSK is typically stable and does not significantly affect vision or quality of life, but may be linked to exposure to little fire ants.
A new study by Nicholas Hebdon and Lindsay Waldrop found substantial overlap in skull shapes across dog breeds and functional categories, challenging the prevailing belief that certain breeds are inherently superior at specific tasks. The researchers discovered no clear evidence of morphological specialization for bite work or scent work.
A study found that working sled dogs take a day to adjust to the change in routine caused by Daylight Savings Time, whereas pet dogs and their owners show no significant changes. Older pet dogs are less active on the first morning after the time shift.
Researchers in Montana used drones to haze grizzly bears away from towns, homes, and livestock. The results showed that the technology was effective at moving bears away from desirable areas, but not necessarily teaching them to avoid humans long-term.
Researchers at the University of Florida have identified a crucial link between a gene mutation and immune system signaling in canine hemangiosarcoma, a potentially life-threatening condition. The study findings reveal an important discovery about how this cancer grows and spreads, providing new insights for novel therapies.
Dog owners cite emotional, physical, and social benefits of dog ownership, but also costly responsibilities. While daily life benefits include improved exercise and stability, the biggest cost is often cited as veterinary expenses.
A new study from Trinity College Dublin reveals that regular dog walking is associated with improved mobility, reduced fear of falling, and a lower likelihood of unexplained falls. The study, based on TILDA data, highlights the potential benefits of this simple activity for older adults.
A small preliminary study reveals that fearful dog microbiomes differ significantly from those of non-fearful dogs. These findings suggest a possible link between the gut and brain, potentially influencing fear behaviors.
A new study explores how city life is influencing the evolution of urban coyotes, revealing genetic changes related to diet, health, thermoregulation, behavior, cognition, and reproduction. The research also highlights the challenges of studying urban coyotes, which are increasingly common in urban areas throughout the US.
Researchers analyzed DNA of Chornobyl City and NPP dogs to detect genetic mutations, finding none despite long-term exposure to radiation and other toxins. The study implies that low-level environmental contamination could explain genetic differences between the two dog populations.
New research reveals widespread resistance to benzimidazole-based dewormers among canine hookworms in Australia. This increases the risk of gastrointestinal parasites, anaemia, diarrhea, and malnutrition in dogs, as well as cutaneous larva migrans disease in humans.
A study found that dogs were more effective than humans at detecting egg masses of invasive spotted lanternflies in forested areas near vineyards. In contrast, people spotted the egg masses better in vineyards. The trained dogs had a higher detection rate in forests due to their sense of smell.