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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Assessment of emotional predisposition in dogs using PANAS (Positive and Negative Activation Scale) and associated relationships in a sample of dogs from Brazil

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Author(s):
Savalli, Carine [1] ; Albuquerque, Natalia [2] ; Vasconcellos, Angelica S. [3] ; Ramos, Daniela [4] ; de Mello, Fernanda T. [5] ; Mills, Daniel S. [6]
Total Authors: 6
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Fed Sao Paulo, Santos, SP - Brazil
[2] Univ Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo - Brazil
[3] Pontificia Univ Catolica Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG - Brazil
[4] PsicoVet, Sao Paulo - Brazil
[5] Univ Paulista, Sao Paulo - Brazil
[6] Univ Lincoln, Sch Life Sci, Anim Behav Cognit & Welf Grp, Lincoln - England
Total Affiliations: 6
Document type: Journal article
Source: SCIENTIFIC REPORTS; v. 9, DEC 5 2019.
Web of Science Citations: 0
Abstract

The English version of the Positive and Negative Activation Scale (PANAS) is a useful tool for the assessment of dog temperament, helping to identify highly sensitive individuals that could be at risk of developing fears, phobias and anxiety problems, and potentially depressive states. This study evaluated the association between dogs' and owners' characteristics and dog temperament in Brazil. To accomplish this, we adapted and validated a Portuguese language version of PANAS for dogs. Data from 1744 owner-dog dyads were analysed and a two-factor structure similar to the original PANAS was revealed that met the requirements for validity and internal consistency. We found that dogs owned by women, neutered dogs and those who live in single-dog households show higher negative activation. Moreover, the older the owner, the less the negative activation for dogs that are bought. We also found that the older the dog, the less the positive activation, but this score is higher in dogs that sleep inside the house. Interestingly, mixed-breed dogs scored higher for both negative and positive emotional activation compared to purebreds. These findings alongside the particular profile of dogs in Brazil, including its large population of mixed-breed, emphasise the value of cross-cultural investigations in order to develop a full understanding of dog behaviour. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 14/50282-5 - Positive psychology and neuroscience: translational research to promote well-being and emotional regulation
Grantee:Emma Otta
Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Research Centers in Engineering Program