Shephard Dogs

Specific dogs for specific livestock traits. A dog's breed can determine how well it follows human commands, according to a new study from Oregon State University. Here's Dr. Monique Udell, an animal scientist at OSU and lead author of the study: "We looked at border collie's which are primarily herding dogs and have been bred for exaggerated eye-stalk-chase behavior, hunting traits which dogs inherited from their wolf ancestors. We also looked at Anatolian shepherds which have been bred for the absence of predatory traits to encourage them to protect instead of chase livestock. With training, Anatolian shepherds were able to learn to follow human pointing. A dog's breed may simply signify a different starting point. If dog owners want their pets to behave in a way that is uncharacteristic of their breed, it is often possible, but may take more training and time. You can teach dogs – young and old – new tricks." Dr. Udell was quick to point out that , irrespective of breed, training early optimized the behaviors that trainers are looking for.