CONDOG project: integrated temperament assessment to construct a tool for early prediction of behavioral problems

Numerous dogs live in our society, of which several develop behavioral problems. These dogs can pose a problem to other dogs and humans and they are often abandoned, sent to re-homing centers or euthanized. An early prediction of problem behavior could prevent these problems to occur. In the CONDOG project the development of dog temperament is studied in order to identify at an early stage individuals that are susceptible of developing behavioral problems. Domestic dogs of four breed clusters and two control groups (laboratory and aggressive dogs) are repeatedly evaluated (ages: 6, 12, 18 months) in the form of behavioral tests (reactivity), physiological measurements (heart rate variability, salivary markers), and owners’ evaluations of their dogs’ behavior to identify potential behavioral problems (validated C-BARQ questionnaire). In addition, veterinary practitioners assess the dogs’ behavior during physical examination, and at an age of 18 months all dogs will undergo a standardized test of fear and aggression (SAB test). By comparing these different assessments with the occurrence of behavioral problems, an optimal age for identifying an animal with (future) problems, as well as the parameters that validate this prediction are identified. Based on these findings, a simplified tool for evaluating temperament will be proposed to veterinary practitioners, so that they can inform their clients and together with them take measures to prevent behavioral problems.