Genomic analysis of firework fear and noise reactivity in standard poodles.

Abstract

Fear of firework noises and other loud, sudden noises (noise reactivity) is a significant problem for many dogs and may have a negative effect on both welfare and, in severe cases, the life expectancy of dogs. A wide range of behavior traits, including fear-related behaviors, have high heritability estimates in dogs. The aim of this study was to estimate genomic heritability for fear of fireworks and loud noises in dogs. A genomic heritability estimate was performed based on genome-wide SNPs from standard poodles with records of fear of fireworks and noise reactivity. The study was based on questionnaires answered by owners, who also volunteered to return a cheek swab from their dog for DNA analyses. SNP-based heritability was estimated to be 0.28 for firework fear and 0.16 for noise reactivity. We also identified an interesting region on chromosome 17 that was weakly associated with both traits. We have estimated low to medium genomic heritabilities for fear of fireworks and noise reactivity in standard poodles. We have also identified an interesting region on chromosome 17, which harbors genes that have been shown to be involved in different psychiatric traits with anxiety components in humans. The region was associated with both traits; however, the association was weak and need further verification from other studies. The prevalence of fear of fireworks and loud noises is very high in many dog ​​breeds and can be a serious problem for both the dogs and the owners. A genetic study of fear of fireworks and fear of other loud noises was conducted on standard poodles. The study was based on owner questionnaires, where the dog owners scored their dogs’ degree of fearfulness from 1 (not fearful) to 5 (very fearful). We estimated genomic heritabilities of 28% for fear of fireworks and 15% for noise reactivity. We also identified a region on chromosome 17 with a possible association with the two traits. This genomic region contains genes of interest in human anxiety-related disorders. Genomic studies in dog breeds where the individuals with and without fear-associated phenotypes can be clearly distinguished, based on owner records, may provide opportunities for the implementation of methods for genomic selection for those fear-associated traits. The results of this study may be helpful for standard poodle breeders in their selection of breeding animals, which ultimately will contribute to better animal welfare.