Dogs with less complex facial markings found to be more expressive in their communication with humans

The domestication of canines and their co-evolution with humans has fostered a unique rapport with these animals. Our four-legged friends have adapted well to understanding human modes of communication, both verbal and nonverbal. However, researchers at the George Washington University suggest that humans could improve their understanding of dogs by paying attention to the dogs’ facial markings.

A recent study published in the journal Animals by researchers from the GW Primate Genomics Lab reveals that dogs with simpler facial markings tend to exhibit more facial expressions when interacting with humans compared to dogs with complex facial markings.

The study also found that people with dogs aged between two and seven years old are better at accurately judging their dogs’ level of expressivity if their dog has plain facial features.

The study involved over 100 dogs and their owners. Each participant recorded their dogs in various conditions, and the research team used a standardized coding system called DogFACS to analyze the dogs’ behaviors. They also developed a unique system to evaluate and scale facial markings and patterns. Additionally, participants completed a survey providing demographic information about their dogs and assessed their own ability to judge their dogs’ expressions.

The researchers believe that these findings have practical implications not only for dog owners but also for anyone interacting with dogs in various settings.

Courtney Sexton, the lead author of the study, emphasizes the importance of understanding dog communication in different contexts, such as in shelters, with working dogs or service animals, and in everyday interactions with dogs in neighborhoods and dog parks. Enhancing communication between humans and dogs can greatly improve their overall experience together.

The study also discovered that senior dogs exhibit less expressivity in their communication with humans, which Sexton suggests may be because older dogs have a well-established relationship with their human companions and do not need to exert as much effort to be understood. Additionally, working dogs and highly trained dogs were found to be more expressive, as their specialized training demands effective communication, and their owners are more skilled at interpreting their expressions.

Denial of responsibility! TechCodex is an automatic aggregator of the all world’s media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.