Genetics and the Behavior of Domestic Animals

Behavior is shaped by both genetics and experience-nature and nurture. Genetics and the Behavior of Domestic Animals synthesizes research from behavioral genetics and animal and veterinary science, bridging the gap between these fields. The objective is to show that principles of behavioral genetics have practical applications to agricultural and companion animals.

The continuing domestication of animals is a complex process whose myriad impacts on animal behavior are often under-appreciated. Genetic factors play a significant role in both species-specific behaviors and behavioral differences exhibited by individuals in the same species. Leading authorities explore the impact of increased intensities of selection on domestic animal behavior. Rodents, cattle, pigs, sheep, horses, herding and guard dogs, and poultry are all included in these discussions of genetics and behavior, making Genetics and the Behavior of Domestic Animals useful to veterinarians, livestock producers, laboratory animal researchers and technicians, animal trainers and breeders, and any researcher interested in animal behavior.

"In light of the ongoing debate on 'nature versus nurture' as determinants of behavior, it is somewhat surprising that this is the first book devoted to the role genetics plays in domestic animal behavior. [...] this topic has not previously been given the in-depth treatment it receives here. Editor Grandin's stated objective is 'to illustrate that principles discovered by behavioral genetics researchers have practical applications in agricultural and companion animals.' Of particular interest is the final chapter, 'Genetics and Animal Welfare,' which examines the often damaging effects of our efforts to select for certain traits and suggests criteria for determining the ethical limit for genetic selection. A fine work, highly readable and well documented. Extensive bibiographies. Recommended for all academic libraries."
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Chapter 1. Behavioral Genetics and Animal Science
Temple Grandin & Mark Deesing

Chapter 2. Behavioral Genetics and the Process of Animal Domestication
Per Jensen
 
Chapter 3. Fear and Fearfulness in Determining Behavior
Alain Boissy

Chapter 4. Genetics and Behavior during Handling, Restraint and Herding
Temple Grandin & Mark Deesing

Chapter 5. Maternal and Reproductive Behavior of Livestock
Peter Chenoweth

Chapter 6. Differences in the Behavior of Dog Breeds
Kathryn Lord, Raymond Coppinger, and Lorna Coppinger

Chapter 7. Genetic Effects on Horse Behavior
Temple Grandin & Mark Deesing

Chapter 8. Improving the Adaptability of Animals by Selection
J.M. Faure & A.D. Mills

Chapter 9. Genetics and the Behavior of Chickens: Welfare and Productivity
William Muir & Heng wei Cheng

Chapter 10. Continuation of the Russian Fox Experiments
Anna V. Kukekova, Lyudmila N. Trut, Gregory M. Acland, & K. Gordon Lark

Chapter 11. Behavior Genetics Important for Pig Welfare
Lotta Rydhmer & Laurianne Canerio

Chapter 12: Genetics and Animal Welfare
Temple Grandin & Mark Deesing