Humans Have Helped Shape A Dog's Brain, Research Finds!

A new study entitled “Significant neuroanatomical variation among domestic dog breeds”, published in The Journal of Neuroscience, indicates surprising and interesting facts about dog breeds and the structure of their brains.

It is a known fact that different breeds of dogs have different brain structures, which influences the way they act and behave. But little did we know that the selective breeding performed by humans over canines over the years means that we are responsible for the brains of many dogs.

In order to promote certain behavioral traits, physical characteristics, and more, humans have bred dogs in a selective and meticulous fashion for centuries. This study examined 33 dog breeds and their brains through magnetic resonance imaging scans, and researchers discovered that the huge variance that occurred across all breed brain structures wasn’t just about their size or shape.

Further examination indicated that there were the largest variations in six different brain networks, which all have varying functions but were all associated with a particular characteristic or other. This may include movement style, social bonding style, and more.

For now, this is just beginning research, but it opens up many doors – and further questions – to neuroanatomical structure, evolution, and better understanding of our canine companions in general.

Feature Image Source: Pixabay