Genetics and the Social Behavior of the Dog [Dog Behavior: The Genetic Basis], 1965 (; backlinks; similar):
Classic study of dog behavior, the authoritative information from 20 years of research at the Jackson Laboratory. The authors synthesize developmental problems and canine genetics, based on study of 470 dogs. Central to the book is the role heredity plays in the development of behavior.
Giving puppies an environment designed on the principles of a well-run school, Scott and Fuller tested 5 breeds representing the major dog groups and carried out a Mendelian experiment with two of the most different breeds: The basenji and the cocker spaniel. They found that heredity affects almost every trait tested; that gender affects aggressiveness and the dominance order, but not trainability and problem-solving; that emotional traits profoundly influence performance; that, although breeds differ widely in emotional and motivational characteristics, none shows distinct superiority in problem solving; and that detailed statistical analyses indicate a highly complex pathway between primary gene action and its final effect on behavior.
Includes important information on rearing methods, the origin and history of dog breeds, basic behavior patterns and the psychological and behavioral development of puppies. Their careful scientific work demonstrated the importance and existence of time limited phases in the early life of dogs within which certain experiences need to occur or the dogs may be forever deficient.
Their work (with that of Eckhard Hess’s on ducks and geese) demonstrated that these critical or sensitive periods in early development could be scientifically studied in ways compatible with a scientific psychology.
This book will always be especially valuable to dog breeders and trainers; its last chapters summarize in very clear terms the particular phases in early development and experiences the dog needs to be adequately socialized. The reader can refer back to earlier chapters to get more information on how the experiments were conducted and the distribution of results. It answers questions on proper age that puppies can be separated from their mothers, what experiences are important to provide at what age, etc. Originally published in 1965. [ISBN: 0–226–74335–7]