Researchers studied genetic differences between two Chornobyl dog populations living near the nuclear power plant and 16.5 km away. They found significant genetic distinctions, with 391 outlier regions indicating potential genetic repair mechanisms. The study may provide insights into human adaptability to environmental disasters.
A study published in PLOS ONE analyzed a Bronze Age debris deposit in Mycenae, Greece, revealing the types of animals that lived there and how they were used as a source of subsistence. The analysis of animal remains and associated artifacts provides clues to the social dynamics of ancient settlements and responses to natural disasters.
A new Australian study found that assistance dogs used in conjunction with traditional therapies provide the most effective treatment outcomes for defence veterans' mental health. Almost 90% of veterans reported improvements in post-traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety after being matched with an assistance dog.
Researchers confirmed the first cases of canine distemper virus in tigers and leopards in Nepal, which can cause fatal neurological disease. The study found that 11% of tigers and 30% of leopards had antibodies to CDV, indicating prior infection with the virus.
A study found that dog puppies but not kittens and wolf pups spontaneously imitate human actions, even when unrewarded. The researchers believe this can inform novel training methods less dependent on food rewards.
A new genetic test can identify dogs at risk of a potentially deadly disorder resulting in excessive bleeding and bruising after surgical procedures. The DEPOHGEN test will allow for preventative treatment by administering antifibrinolytic drugs to dogs with the mutation before surgery.
Research published in Scientific Reports found that dogs fed non-processed meat-based diets and human leftovers during puppyhood and adolescence were less likely to experience gastrointestinal disorders later in life. This suggests that providing puppies with a variety of whole foods early on may reduce the risk of future digestive iss...
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania's Working Dog Center trained dogs to distinguish between healthy and diseased deer feces. The dogs showed great specificity in detecting CWD-positive samples, suggesting a potential asset in managing the highly contagious disease.
Researchers found that breeds genetically closer to wolves are more prone to reply with howls, while modern breeds bark instead. Older dogs over 5 years also show increased stress-related behaviors when howling.
A new study analyzed 3,452 dogs with cancer to determine median ages of diagnosis based on characteristics such as weight, breed, and sex. The findings suggest that giant breeds, males, and purebred dogs tend to receive a cancer diagnosis at relatively younger ages.
Researchers found solid scientific evidence that Vikings transported animals, including a horse and dog, across the North Sea to Britain. The analysis of human and animal remains from the Heath Wood cremation cemetery revealed that these animals originated from Scandinavia.
A novel form of chemoimmunotherapy has been proven to be a promising treatment for canine cancer, extending the lives of terminally ill dogs. The therapy uses modified Mesenchymal Stem Cells carrying a potent 'kill-switch' that induces anti-cancer immunity and improves quality of life.
Researchers found that companion dogs, but not pigs, would show their owners the location of a food reward out-of-reach. This suggests that directing humans' attention to interesting locations may not be a universal ability among domestic animals. Dogs and other visually communicative species were more likely to use this behavior.
A study of 13 dog breeds found breed differences in cognitive traits like social cognition, problem-solving ability, and inhibitory control. The results suggest that different breeds excel in specific tasks, highlighting the complexity of canine cognition.
A study of 665 pet dogs found that life history, owner gender, and breed can influence canine behavior. The results highlight the importance of environmental interactions in shaping animal behavior, suggesting that traits like weight, height, and cranial morphology impact the dog-owner relationship.
A study from the University of California, Davis' One Health Institute found that canine echinococcosis increased to 6.9% in Tierra del Fuego's sheep farms after the government cancelled a deworming program in 2004. Reestablishing the program could help protect people and animals from hydatid disease.
Researchers found that differences in epigenetic DNA methylation predict behavioral differences between dogs better than genetic markers. Epigenetics are more informative for behavior than genetics, and the results open up new possibilities for screening and selecting desired behavioral traits in companion or service dogs.
Research by Uppsala University and Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences links atopic dermatitis in dogs to specific genome regions. The study identifies genes coinciding with human atopic eczema, including the filaggrin gene region.
A study analyzing DNA samples from over 200 dog breeds and nearly 50,000 pet-owner surveys pinpointed genes behind canine behavioral traits. The researchers found that common sets of genes were responsible for behaviors among dog breeds well-suited for similar tasks, such as hunting or herding.
Researchers used genomic data from over 4,000 dogs to identify 10 major lineages and behavioral traits that correlate with these lineages. The study found that genomic variations among dog breeds are related to the development of their nervous system, suggesting a link between canine and human brain function.
Researchers found that while humans excel at categorizing interactions between humans, dogs, and monkeys, they struggle to predict aggressive behaviors in both species. Participants performed poorly on identifying aggression in dogs and humans, suggesting a potential bias towards assuming good intentions from others.
A new study found that smartphones can harbor allergens such as cat and dog dander, β-D glucans, and endotoxin. Cleaning compounds like chlorhexidine/cetylpyridinium chloride and benzyl benzoate/tannic acid were effective in reducing these allergens.
Researchers at Eötvös Loránd University developed two tests to assess age-related memory performance and neophobia differences in dogs. The memory test found that older dogs make more mistakes before finding food, while the novel object test revealed an increased tendency to avoid new objects with age.
A new controlled-release device has been tested at UMass Amherst for its effectiveness in preventing tick bites. The device uses synthetic pyrethroids to create a spatial repellent that alters the behavior of ticks, making them less likely to climb and more likely to detach or fall off. The results show promising promise in reducing th...
Researchers at the University of Missouri have successfully used click chemistry to deliver radiopharmaceuticals specifically to tumors in large dogs with bone cancer, increasing effectiveness and minimizing circulation. This breakthrough could pave the way for click chemistry-based treatments for humans with cancer in the future.
A unique Stone Age burial site in Finland uncovered a child between 3-10 years old, accompanied by bird feathers from a waterfowl or falcon, as well as dog or wolf hairs. The discovery provides valuable insights into ancient burial habits and the use of soil analysis to trace plant and animal remains.
A new study reveals that people with strong emotions are more interested in interacting with cats, contrary to the common perception that cat interactions are less appealing. The research found that universities can benefit from including both dogs and cats in their animal-assisted interventions to reach a broader audience.
A study by Oregon State University found that dogs with owners who have high expectations and respond well to their behavior are more social, secure, and persistent problem solvers. The research suggests that understanding a dog's needs is crucial for raising secure and resilient dogs.
Researchers found that petting real dogs activates the prefrontal cortex more than stuffed animals, with increased brain activity each time interaction occurs. This effect persists after the dog is gone, suggesting a long-lasting impact of social bonding.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 5, 2022
A new study found that dogs can differentiate between breath and sweat samples from people before and after a stress-inducing task with an accuracy of 93.75%. The researchers believe that dogs are able to detect changes in volatile organic compounds produced by humans in response to stress.
Researchers identified 7 core categories of behaviors important for human-dog bonds, including attunement, communication, and physical affection. These behaviors may be incorporated into robotic systems to provide mental health benefits for humans.
The study explored how humans react to DAVE, a Virtual Labrador, in virtual reality. Researchers found that humans exhibited varying behaviors when interacting with the digital dog, shedding light on canine-human interactions.
A new study by Queen's University Belfast researchers found that dogs can detect human stress through scent alone, without visual or audio cues. The study involved four dogs and 36 people, who underwent a difficult maths problem to induce stress. The dogs correctly identified the stressed samples in every test session.
Researchers at Stockholm University found wolves can show attachment towards humans, discriminating between familiar and stranger individuals. The study suggests ancestral variation for human-dog attachment bonds, potentially explaining similarities in canine behavior.
A recent genomic analysis reveals that all South American canid species descended from a single ancestral population that arrived on the continent between 3.5 million and 4 million years ago. The study found that genetic mutations leading to extreme variations in height, size, and diet were introduced artificially through selective bre...
Researchers at Emory University used machine learning and fMRI to analyze a dog's brain activity while watching videos. The results show that dogs are more attuned to actions in their environment than to who or what is performing the action. This study offers proof of concept for decoding canine visual perception.
A recent study found a significant decline in pet neuter surgeries nationwide due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to increased shelter overcrowding and euthanasia. The study, which analyzed data from 212 clinics, showed a shortage of veterinarians and staffing issues exacerbated the problem.
Researchers found that lifespan estimates could inform veterinarians whether to screen for CCD in older dogs. Dogs' cognitive function declines as they age, and signs of CCD include memory deficits, loss of spatial awareness, and sleep disruption.
A new international study suggests that dog owners who spend more time exercising themselves tend to exercise their dogs more, leading to a perceived ideal body weight. The study found that feeding practices play a main role in owner perception of their dog being overweight, while exercise practices are crucial for an ideal weight.
Computer simulations reveal that animals rearing up to smell the air is part of an efficient strategy for locating scent sources. Animals use physics to navigate turbulent environments, pausing and standing on hind legs to catch distant scents in the air.
A study published in Current Biology found that dogs shed tears associated with positive emotions, such as reuniting with their owners, suggesting a stronger bond between humans and dogs. Oxytocin may play a role in this emotional response, with researchers also noting that people tend to respond more positively to teary-eyed dog faces.
A recent study found that US animal shelters experienced a surge in dog and cat intake following climate-linked disasters. The influx of animals lasted for up to a year, highlighting the need for preparedness and resources for affected facilities.
A study by Hoi-Lam Jim and colleagues found that neither dogs nor wolves formed reputations of humans as generous or selfish after indirect or direct interactions. However, some animals showed preference for the generous human after combined experiences.
A new study found a correlation between colder temperatures and northern regions in the US and an increased risk of diabetes diagnoses in dogs. Diabetes diagnoses were more common in winter and in the North compared to other seasons and regions.
Researchers found that gifted word learners, a rare breed of dogs capable of learning multiple toy names, exhibit even higher levels of playfulness than typical border collies. The study suggests a correlation between playfulness and giftedness in learning object verbal labels.
A multi-institutional team assessed the diagnostic criteria for canine glioma using the Comparative Brain Tumor Consortium's guidelines. The study found that consensus was achieved for 71 out of 85 cases (84%), with a moderate level of inter-pathologist agreement.
A new study from North Carolina State University explores the connection between hearing loss and dementia in geriatric dogs. The study found that as hearing deteriorated, dogs' ability to perform tasks declined significantly. Cognitive scores related to vitality and companionship were also negatively impacted.
A new study from the University of Illinois found that dog gut bacteria can change rapidly after introducing a new diet, with microbial turnover occurring in under a week. The research also confirmed previous findings on the health benefits of high-fiber diets over high-fat and high-protein diets.
A new study successfully introduces healthy photoreceptor cells derived from stem cells into the retinas of dogs, marking significant progress toward a cell-based therapy for blindness. The treatment enables cells to survive and form connections with existing retinal cells, paving the way for a regenerative medicine approach.
A new analysis of service dog-veteran pairs found that lower dog excitability and closer relationships between veterans and their dogs are associated with reduced PTSD symptoms. Better mental health outcomes were also linked to perceptions of easy care for the dog and more frequent interactions initiated by the veteran.
Two studies found that dogs fed on a diet of raw meat were more likely to excrete antibiotic-resistant E. coli in their faeces. The research suggests that not feeding raw meat to dogs may help reduce the circulation of critically important antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Researchers at Cornell University found connections between the brain's olfactory pathway and visual cortex in dogs, showing that olfaction is integrated with vision in terms of learning about the environment. This study corroborates clinical experiences with blind dogs who function remarkably well despite their condition.
Researchers measured wolf sleep using non-invasive EEG, finding similarities with dog sleep but less REM time. The study offers a unique opportunity to understand the effects of domestication and cohabitation on wolf sleep phenotypes.
A study by Ohio State University found that neighborhoods with high levels of trust and more dogs had lower rates of homicide, robbery, and aggravated assaults compared to areas with fewer dogs. The presence of dog walkers serves as a form of neighborhood surveillance, discouraging crime and deterring potential threats.
A new study by University of Cambridge researchers found that male dogs are four to five times more likely than female dogs to be infected with the oro-nasal form of Canine Transmissible Venereal Tumour. This unusual cancer is infectious and can spread between dogs through contact, commonly affecting genitals but also the nose and mouth.
Researchers found that dogs derive ancestry from at least two separate wolf populations, an eastern source and a more westerly source. The study, published in Nature, analyzed 72 ancient wolf genomes spanning the last 100,000 years and suggests that domestication occurred in multiple places.
Researchers sampled fecal microbiomes from dogs across diverse populations in South Africa, India, and Laos, revealing similar metabolic functions. The study suggests that industrialization may affect the human microbiome diversity in non-industrialized settings.
A new analysis of ancient and contemporary genomes shows that more than half of historical groups experienced founder events, leading to reduced genetic diversity. This research has significant implications for scientists studying human genetic variation and the discovery of disease-causing mutations.
A new study reveals that over half of human populations worldwide have experienced sharp dips in population size due to founder events, associated with geographic isolation, hunter-gatherer lifestyle, or cultural practices. This analysis technique, ASCEND, will help identify groups at high risk of genetic diseases.
A new study finds that the quality of dog-owner relationships is similar between Canadian-born dogs and internationally sourced dogs. Owners reported equal satisfaction, attachment, and problematic behaviors, suggesting owner attitudes play a greater role than dog characteristics.