Hypersocial Behavior in Dogs: Link Between Phenotype and Genotype

Have you ever wondered what makes your dog friendly? JCCC students attempted to test their own dogs for a “friendliness” gene. Phenotypic and genotypic testing were conducted by determining a hypersocial score for each dog based on observed behavior of the dog with familiar and unfamiliar people. The presence of a gene insert for hypersocial behavior was determined through multiple tests including DNA extraction, PCR and gel electrophoresis. The knowledge gained from these tests will deepen the knowledge we have about hypersocial behavior and whether the breed and age of the dog impacts friendliness in dogs.