The presentation will give some background on genetics, including parts of a chromosome, including transcription and translation, inheritance, and silencing (epigenetics). I will go into association studies (pros and cons) to provide the audience with some foundation information. I will then discuss the implications coat color (in dogs and cats) may have on temperament, and present a series of studies of breed heritage (genetics) associated with various traits (i.e. shyness, boldness, trainability, etc). I also intend to touch on some genetic markers associated with behavior problems, and try to round out the discussion with some information on environmental factors that contribute to behavior. To conclude, I will highlight how this information should be interpreted with caution but may help with setting up appropriate environments and expectations of owners, selection of pet vs working dogs, and preventing/treating anticipated behavior problems.
About the Presenter
Dr. Lena Provoost currently works at Penn Vet in Philadelphia, PA as a clinician and lecturer in Small Animal Behavior & Welfare. She enjoys educating students, her clients, and treating companion animals afflicted with anxieties, fears, and frustrations. Her major interests include all aspects of cognition, effects and management of pain on behavior, behavioral genetics, and the human animal bond. Dr. Provoost admits that most of her spare time is spent running after her two young sons, but enjoys every minute of it.
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