Behavior and Genetic Variability of the Maremma-Abruzzese Sheepdog in a farm: a Case Study

Valentina Gazzano, Francesca Cecchi — Wed, 27 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The Maremma-Abruzzese Sheepdog is a traditional Italian livestock guardian breed valued for its low predatory drive and strong territorial instincts. This study integrates behavioral and genetic perspectives through a case study conducted on a farm located in Viterbo province, Lazio (Italy). Ten animals were considered, on which field observations of pack structure, adolescent development, and human–dog interaction were conducted. Pedigree analysis was also performed to compute inbreeding coefficients and to analyse genetic variability. Results highlight the critical role of early imprinting, adult role modeling, and responsible breeding strategies in maintaining both behavioral suitability and genetic health. Although all the ten animals analyzed showed low levels of inbreeding (F < 0.15), the pedigree analysis revealed individuals with much higher coefficients, underlining the importance of genetic monitoring. Overall, the findings emphasize the need for integrated ethological and genetic management to ensure the long-term viability of this semi-feral guardian breed.

Behavioral Responses and Heart Rate Changes in Dogs During Routine Veterinary Visits

Veronica Ponzetta — Wed, 27 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Veterinary visits are commonly associated with emotional arousal in dogs, even when procedures are routine and non-invasive. The present study aimed to evaluate behavioral responses and heart rate changes in dogs during a veterinary visit, comparing the waiting room and the clinical examination phases, and to investigate the relationship between behavioral expression and physiological activation. A total of 55 client-owned dogs undergoing routine veterinary visits were included. Behavioral responses were assessed using a structured observational scoring system, and heart rate was recorded during both the waiting room and clinical examination phases. Differences between phases were analyzed using paired statistical tests, and associations between behavioral scores and heart rate were evaluated using Spearman’s rank correlation. Behavioral scores were significantly higher during the clinical examination compared to the waiting room (p < 0.0001), indicating a worsening of behavioral responses during examination. Heart rate values also increased significantly during the clinical examination (p < 0.0001). Significant positive correlations were observed between behavioral scores and heart rate, particularly during the clinical examination phase. These findings indicate that routine veterinary visits are associated with concurrent behavioral and physiological changes in dogs, with the clinical examination representing the most impactful phase. The integration of behavioral observation and heart rate assessment may provide a more comprehensive evaluation of dogs’ responses during veterinary care and support strategies aimed at improving animal welfare and clinical management.

Dog behavior

Behavior and Genetic Variability of the Maremma-Abruzzese Sheepdog in a farm: a Case Study

Behavioral Responses and Heart Rate Changes in Dogs During Routine Veterinary Visits