When many people look at a dog, they often will take a guess at the dog’s breed or breed mix and then make behavioral assumptions about that dog based on those guesses.
The assumption that all dogs who look a certain way also behave a certain way is not based in modern science.
We know what the canine genome looks like and there is substantial peer-reviewed research showing that looks, and even breed, do not equal behavior.
Dogs are complex animals influenced by many factors. Those factors include genetics and environment, among other things.
The only real way to learn about a dog’s behavior is looking at their actual, observable behavior.
When we focus on guesses and assumptions instead of actual facts, we end up with:
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Animal Farm Foundation (AFF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization built on the principle that all dogs are individuals. Our Foundation relies on science-based information about animal behavior and public policy, including breed-specific legislation and housing insurance discrimination, derived from our subsidiary National Canine Research Council. AFF’s team offers regional and national initiatives that support dogs and the people who care for them in their communities.
NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets Shelter/Rescue Registration: RR286
