Investigating Canine Maternal Behavior
A study closely observed maternal behavior in dog mothers and their litters, focusing on the first three weeks of a puppy’s life. Researchers monitored the amount of physical contact the dams had with their puppies, including nursing, grooming, and interaction. Significant variations in maternal behavior among mother dogs was revealed, with some highly attentive while others showed neglectful tendencies.
Assessing the Impact of Maternal Care on Puppy Behavior
To evaluate the influence of maternal care on adult dogs, researchers conducted temperament tests on the puppies at approximately 18 months old. Utilizing a test commonly used by the Swedish Armed Forces to select potential military working dogs, researchers measured various aspects of the puppies’ behavior. These measures included social interactions, cooperation with humans, and engagement with the environment. Assessing social engagement or sociability and physical engagement involved observing the puppies’ willingness to interact with humans and their environment. Activities such as chasing or playing tug-of-war.
Additionally, the researchers exposed the test subjects to potentially threatening stimuli. Such as loud noises or sudden movements, to gauge their reactions. The results demonstrated a correlation between maternal care and puppy behavior. Puppies that received more maternal care and touching exhibited higher levels of social engagement, physical activity, and fortitude. These dogs were characterized as friendlier, more active, and less prone to being startled by unexpected events. The findings suggest a parallel between the development of human behavior and canine behavior. These results emphasized the significance of maternal care in shaping a puppy’s behavior and temperament.
The Match Dot Pup Approach
At Match Dot Pup, we recognize the importance of early human interaction in a puppy’s development. We implement handling exercises from the age of four days, ensuring that all touching is slow, gentle, and loving. Puppies are kept close to our heart and face, allowing them to smell our nose and mouth frequently for imprinting purposes. We prioritize kissing and holding our puppies close, familiarizing them with intense human interaction from an early age.
Identifying Puppies’ Temperaments
Through our interactions, we observe puppies’ responses to determine their temperaments. Some puppies exhibit compliant and submissive behaviors. Others may “melt” into our arms because human touch is desirable to them. Identifying puppies that seek out human interaction and enjoy being held and cuddled are ideal for individuals seeking a close bond with their canine companions. Our 14 trait temperament testing includes the touch tolerance trait, which is an adjustable trait. In our assessments, we can pinpoint puppies that exhibit resistance to handling, demonstrate occasional compliance but may react negatively to certain handling methods, or consistently display enjoyment of touch. This thorough evaluation allows us to match puppies with owners who seek specific traits, including cuddliness. Understanding this aspect aids in our placement process, as many clients express interest in affectionate puppies.
