Review
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World J Med Genet. Aug 27, 2014; 4(3): 46-57
Published online Aug 27, 2014. doi: 10.5496/wjmg.v4.i3.46
Genetics of canine behavior: A review
Amanda Rigterink, Katherine Houpt
Amanda Rigterink, Indiana Veterinary Behavior Services, LLC, West Lafayette, IN 47906, United States
Katherine Houpt, College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Cornell University, CVM Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853-6401, United States
Author contributions: Rigterink A reviewed domestication and breed differences in behavior; Houpt K reviewed aggression and other behavior abnormalities.
Correspondence to: Katherine Houpt, Professor, College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Cornell University, CVM Cornell University, 3065 E Dixon Lake Road, Ithaca, NY 14853-6401, United States. kah3@cornell.edu
Telephone: +1-989-4488083 Fax: +1-989-4488083
Received: December 26, 2013
Revised: May 20, 2014
Accepted: June 10, 2014
Published online: August 27, 2014
Core Tip

Core tip: This review incorporates the latest findings in the rapidly moving field of canine behavioral genetics. The genes involved in tameness of foxes and in domestication of dogs from wolves are discussed. The genes involved in several obsessive compulsive behaviors such as flank sucking and circling are mentioned. The genetic and physiological differences between aggressive and non-aggressive dogs of various breeds are emphasized.