Doggy DNA: Misconceptions About Nature vs Nurture
Some dogs have to deal with a “ruff” reputation based entirely on what breed they are—or just look like. Rottweilers, Dobermans, and German Shepherds are a few that get called out as aggressive, dangerous, or problematic based entirely on their looks, before they ever show signs of a snarl. As a dog trainer who works with dogs day-in, day-out, I can tell you there are both myths and truths floating around about dog behavior, and that both genetic and non-genetic factors influence a dog’s temperament, appearance, and behaviors. Let’s look at what animal aspects are more likely to be due to nature and what’s nurtured.
The Doggy Debate: What behaviors do dogs learn and which are they born with?
A dog’s behavior or temperament isn’t completely fixed at birth, but some characteristics are strongly influenced by genetics.
For example, hip dysplasia is understood to be hereditary, but one study noted that Labrador puppies who were fed 25% less had a dramatically lower incidence of hip dysplasia. This is what we mean by the difference between “nature” (genetic influence) and “nurture” (environmental influence) and how these also work together, for better or worse.
Science tells us that genetics plays a big role in dog behavior but doesn’t entirely dictate daily behavioral traits. Every dog is an individual with its own experiences, so assuming any puppy will have the traits of their parents or their breed isn’t as accurate as you might think. Here are three common misconceptions that I see shared a lot, and some information debunking why they just aren’t true about our canine companions:
Common Misconceptions About Nature and Nurture
Misconception #1: “All that matters is how you raise them”
It’s not safe or fair to either a dog or their guardian to lay a puppy or dog’s entire behavioral repertoire or temperament upon training – although training is absolutely the best way to help dogs and their human families understand one another and live their best lives together.
Most breeds evolved because hunters and gatherers were purposefully selecting certain characteristics for certain jobs. So even though modern families are no longer using certain breeds for those purposes, inherited behaviors from centuries of selective breeding usually come as part of the package.
Herding, digging, guarding, retrieving, and hunting varmints are just a few jobs that are in the genetics of many popular breeds we live with. While training and enrichment can certainly steer some natural impulses so that we can better live and work cooperatively, we still can’t, and shouldn’t, expect that training will turn a Border Collie puppy, for instance, into a couch potato. Conversely, a lap dog like a Shih-Tzu is unlikely to be a good jogging partner.
Misconception #2: You can be sure some dogs will be problematic simply because of their breed.
Every day dogs prove to us that their breed doesn’t live up to their stereotype. Some dogs historically bred for protection warmly welcome strangers into their home, while some dogs of a breed known to be gentle can become unpredictable based on poor socialization and past experiences. It's important to understand your dog’s genetic needs so he can live his best life!
A high-energy, highly intelligent dog that is bored is likely to find an undesirable (from our POV) way to occupy himself unless given something he wants or needs to do. However, too many dogs have been maligned and passed over in shelters because of negative stereotypes. Even sweet-natured dogs who happen to be large and dark colored are often stigmatized as “scary.”
Misconception #3: A good dog is always a good dog.
We all have bad days—we’re short with our partner or kids, we hang up on someone, we lose our cool with another driver. “Good” dogs can have bad days, too, which is why it is important for dog parents to take the time to learn about canine body language.
Just as we humans can’t really know how we’ll react in a crisis, we can’t be sure how our dog will react if they are sick, injured, or frightened.
So where does a doggy’s nature end and nurture begin?
I’d love to say it’s easy to tell, but the fact is, a dog’s behavior is complex. It certainly helps – and is fun – to research your dog’s breed background, for insights into their behavior and possible natural strengths. Some of those strengths – for example, the quick mind of a Border Collie or Belgian Malinois – will mean you have a responsibility to provide extra mental stimulation and physical activity to meet those “natural” needs. If your Malinois mix grows up to be a gentle goof instead – at least they’ll be a happy and well-behaved goof instead of a bored, destructive Einstein!
We should give every dog the very best odds of growing up happy and healthy through good nutrition, thoughtful socialization, and varied learning opportunities that keep their minds (and noses) engaged. Every dog deserves help in learning to navigate what humans expect of them—no matter what breed they happen to be—or just look like.
Are you dealing with a behavior challenge from your dog, or need help understanding what your dog is trying to tell you? First, go like and follow my Facebook page because I’m always sharing training tips and goodies. Second, there are tons of free resources on behavior and training on the Dogs Behaving Better blog so bookmark that one. Third, sign up for my monthly newsletter where I share the coolest tips, tricks, and trending information on all things dog. Finally, if you’re at your wits-end with a “problematic dog” then this is your sign to reach out for professional help - you can get in touch with me directly here.