A team of ethologists, natural scientists, and psychologists affiliated with several institutions in Hungary has discovered evidence suggesting that the appeal of flat-faced dogs to humans may be linked to their increased reliance on assistance compared to other dog breeds. In a study published in the journal Scientific Reports, the group conducted experiments involving two flat-faced breeds and compared them to non-flat-faced breeds while they performed a task.
Prior research has indicated that flat-faced dog breeds have become increasingly popular in recent years, now being the most popular breed category in the United States. This popularity seems contradictory, as flat-faced dogs are known to have breathing difficulties, a higher risk of heat stroke, increased likelihood of eye problems, and shorter lifespans.
Some previous studies have suggested that the popularity of these breeds is due to their cuteness, particularly their facial features. Many have proposed that they possess attributes that remind us of babies. In this new study, the research team wondered if other factors might also be involved. To investigate, they conducted an experiment comparing two flat-faced breeds, French and English bulldogs, with a breed that has a medium-length muzzle, Hungarian mudis.
The researchers enlisted the participation of 15 French bulldogs, 15 English bulldogs, and 13 mudis, along with their owners. The experiment involved allowing a dog to observe as a researcher placed a treat inside a wooden box and then closed it, and then allowing the dog to attempt to open the box to retrieve the treat. The team used three different types of boxes with varying levels of difficulty. As the dogs tried to open the box, their owners stood behind them.
The research team discovered that mudis were approximately 93% more successful at opening the box. However, what was more intriguing was that the flat-faced dogs were 4.5 times more likely to turn around and seek assistance from their owners compared to the mudis. The researchers suggest that this behavior makes the flat-faced dogs appear more dependent on help, potentially enhancing their resemblance to helpless babies and making them even more appealing to owners.
2023-09-23 18:48:03
Source from phys.org