Abstract

Fear-related problems are common among Swedish Rough Collies. Genetic analyses were performed on 4 composite behavioral traits based on 2953 Rough Collie results from a temperament test. Heritabilities ranged from 0.13-0.25. Validation of the test was done using a dog owner questionnaire, which generated information about everyday life behavior for 1738 Rough Collies. There were high and significant genetic correlations between traits measured in the test, and the everyday life behavior of the dogs as described by the owners. For instance, Curiosity/fearlessness in the test was negatively genetically correlated with Nonsocial fear in the questionnaire (-0.70, SE 0.10). We conclude that data from the analyzed test is possible to use for selection to decrease everyday life fearfulness in the Swedish Rough Collie population.

Published in

Publisher: WCGALP

SLU Authors

• Arvelius, Per

  • Department of Animal Biosciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

• Eken Asp, Helena

  • Department of Animal Biosciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

• Fikse, Freddy

  • Department of Animal Biosciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

• Strandberg, Erling

  • Department of Animal Biosciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

• Nilsson, Katja

  • Department of Animal Biosciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

UKÄ Subject classification

Genetics and Breeding


Permanent link to this page (URI)

https://res.slu.se/id/publ/65597