Animal Molecular Breeding 2024, Vol.14, No.4, 288-296 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/amb 292 Table 1 Association between the TAC1 SNP genotypes and desired behaviours in Belgian Malinois dogs (Adopted from Fallahi et al., 2024) SNP Least square mean±SE Genotype Excitability * Aggression Fear Separation-related behaviour Attention Trainability* c.-162G>C GG 10.04±1.18 21.64±3.97 8.85±2.06 8.16±1.58 14.28±1.41 18.02±0.92 B GC 6.59±1.80 27.70±6.27 6.55±3.25 8.34±2.50 12.64±2.24 21.10±1.49 A CC 10.31±1.65 23.72±5.58 10.96±2.85 6.43±2.18 14.35±1.98 20.28±1.34 AB c.-89C>T CC 10.24±0.79 A 21.88±2.75 9.38±1.43 7.60±1.09 14.20±0.97 18.97±0.71 CT 6.37±1.48 B 28.25±5.29 5.94±2.75 9.24±2.12 12.50±1.88 20.47±1.37 c.* 33T>A TT 8.90±2.01 26.08±6.74 10.90±3.47 5.89±2.64 14.40±2.40 20.46±1.62 TA 8.63±1.21 25.93±4.07 8.85±2.12 8.40±1.62 13.76±1.46 18.81±0.98 AA 9.42±1.32 21.05±4.41 6.61±2.26 8.64±1.75 13.12±1.57 20.13±1.06 Note: Fear=ear and anxiety; attention=attachment and attention-seeking. * Values with different uppercase superscripts in the same column for each SNP are significantly different (p < 0.05). Bold values are significant in the same column (Adopted from Fallahi et al., 2024) 5.2 Environmental factors shaping working dog behavior While genetic factors play a crucial role in shaping the behavior of working dogs, environmental influences are equally significant. The interaction between genes and the environment can significantly impact behavioral outcomes. For example, the presence of children in a household has been associated with increased anxiety traits in dogs, while the presence of other animals can influence behaviors such as coprophagia (Zapata et al., 2020). Additionally, the training environment and the methods used can affect the expression of genetic predispositions. Dogs that are part of genomic selection programs, such as those used for guide dogs, show that environmental stimuli and training regimens can enhance or suppress certain behavioral traits. Moreover, DNA methylation, an epigenetic mechanism, has been shown to correlate with behavioral traits like energy and fear, indicating that environmental factors can lead to epigenetic changes that influence behavior (Sanders et al., 2022). These insights underscore the importance of considering both genetic and environmental factors in the development and training of working dogs. 5.3 Implications for breeding programs and training strategies The integration of genetic insights into breeding programs and training strategies for working dogs holds significant potential for enhancing their effectiveness and well-being. Understanding the genetic underpinnings of traits such as trainability and temperament can inform selective breeding practices aimed at enhancing desirable traits while minimizing behavioral issues. For instance, genomic selection approaches, such as single-step GBLUP, have been shown to improve the accuracy of breeding value predictions, thereby aiding in the selection of dogs with optimal genetic profiles for specific tasks (Riser et al., 2023). Additionally, recognizing the role of environmental factors and epigenetic influences can lead to more tailored training strategies that accommodate individual genetic predispositions. This holistic approach can optimize the performance and adaptability of working dogs, ensuring they meet the demands of their roles while maintaining their welfare. By combining genetic and environmental considerations, breeding and training programs can be more effective in producing dogs that excel in their working capacities (Turcsán et al., 2011). 6 Challenges in Behavioral Genetics Research 6.1 Ethical considerations in genetic studies of behavior Ethical considerations in behavioral genetics research are paramount, particularly when it involves companion animals like dogs. The use of genomic technologies, such as CRISPR/Cas9, raises significant ethical concerns, especially regarding germline modifications that cannot be ethically implemented in wild or natural settings (Walton et al., 2020). The potential for altering an animal's genetic makeup to study behavior must be carefully weighed against the welfare of the animals involved. Additionally, the implications of such research on animal breeding practices and the potential for misuse in creating "designer pets" necessitate strict ethical guidelines. The integration of ethical considerations is crucial to ensure that the research does not inadvertently harm the animals
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