A recent study has found that a puppy’s thinking ability may be an indicator of how responsive the dog will be to training and its behavior as an adult. The research, conducted on dogs between the ages of 3 and 7 months, looked at traits such as impulsivity, ability to follow gestures, and reaction to unsolvable tasks. The findings from these cognitive tests could help pet owners determine the best way to train their dogs and what kinds of activities the animals may enjoy as they grow older. Researchers have identified stable traits in puppies that tend to persist into adulthood, especially in puppies tested at 6 or 7 months old.
More than 1,400 dogs were tested at puppyhood and then again as adults, between the ages of 1 and 8. The study found that the better puppies were at understanding simple pointing gestures, the more trainable and obedient they tended to be as adults. Puppies with high levels of impulse control were also likely to be calm in adulthood. Additionally, puppies that showed fearfulness during initial interactions or sought help from testers tended to be more averse to human strangers as adults. This knowledge can help owners predict the personality traits and behaviors of their pets as they age, allowing them to tailor training methods accordingly.
The study was conducted by dog cognition researcher Saara Junttila and her team, who recruited participants through smartDOG, Ltd., offering canine cognition tests to dog owners. The study focused mainly on breeds known for their trainability, such as border collies, Labrador retrievers, and German shepherds. While the findings emphasize the importance of the human-canine relationship and the adaptability of owners to their pet’s needs, they also acknowledge the need for further research with larger sample sizes and greater diversity in breeds tested. Additionally, the study primarily included dogs from breeders, raising questions about whether similar results would be seen in rescue dogs.
One of the key takeaways from the study is how early cognitive testing in puppies can provide valuable insights into their future behavior and traits. Understanding these links can help owners tailor their training methods and environment to ensure their pets live their best lives. For example, dogs that show aversion to strangers might benefit from increased confidence-building activities and positive experiences in new situations. By identifying these early indicators of behavior and traits, owners can better meet the needs of their canine companions and strengthen their bond with them for a rewarding and fulfilling relationship.
