Although it is known how cultural identity affects behaviours among the human population, it is still unknown whether this notion can be applied to man’s best friend.
To answer this question, three universities in the UK, Austria and Hungary are working in partnership to complete a study looking at how dogs from different countries react to various problems.
The first two stages of the investigation have already taken place at the Eötvös Lóránd University, Budapest and Messerli Research Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna.
For the third and final partner, the University of Lincoln (UK) is now appealing for dog owners to bring their pets for a ‘play date’ where they will take part in new, mentally challenging experiences.
The researchers are specifically looking for Border Collies, Labrador Retrievers and other medium and large sized purebred dogs such as Cocker Spaniels and Huskies, due to the size and weight of toys being used. They must also be kept as pets, mainly indoors, be at least one-year-old and have the potential to be motivated to work for food.
The test sessions are scheduled to take place on the University’s Riseholme campus between 10 January and 25 March, 2013.
To find out more information, visit the website here.
If you and your dog would like to take part in the study please contact Dóra Szabó by e-mailing szaboodoora@gmail.com