# The Influence of Environmental and Genetic Factors and Training Background on the Welfare of Herding Dogs

## TL;DR

This review explores how genetics, training, and environment affect the welfare and performance of herding dogs, emphasizing the importance of ethical training and early socialization.

## Contribution

The study systematically reviews the interplay of genetic and environmental factors in shaping herding dog behavior and welfare.

## Key findings

- Positive reinforcement and early socialization improve performance and reduce stress in herding dogs.
- Genetic predispositions influence herding instinct and cognitive abilities in dogs.
- Ethical training and proper working conditions enhance the psychological wellbeing of herding dogs.

## Abstract

The factors influencing the performance and welfare of herding dogs remain relatively unknown. Therefore, the aim of this review is to systematise the current understanding of the genetic predispositions, training methods, handler relationships and environmental factors believed to influence herding dog welfare and behaviour. The review includes 64 relevant publications, and takes into account the different dog breeds, their behaviour when working with a flock of sheep and the impact of training methods on stress and behavioural problems. It was found that welfare is strongly influenced by genetic predisposition and properly conducted training, socialisation and bonding with the handler; in addition, the efficiency of the herding dogs, and the stress levels of both dogs and livestock, can be improved through positive reinforcement, early socialisation and appropriate working conditions. The review also indicates the need for further research into the interaction between genetic and environmental factors in shaping herding dog behaviour.

Herding dogs play an important role in the management of herds of sheep and cattle, and their effectiveness depends on various genetic and environmental factors, and the choice of training method. The aim of this study is to explain how these factors determine the effectiveness of herding work, the level of stress and psychological comfort experienced by the dogs, as well as their physical health. The study also examines the choice of training method, the influence of socialisation and relationship with the handler, as well as the living conditions. Information on the welfare of herding dogs and the factors that influence this welfare were obtained based on a search of PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar and Scopus using defined keywords. Research indicates that positive reinforcement, early socialisation and trust-building with the handler increase performance, reduce behaviour indicative of any stress the dogs may be experiencing, and improve psychological wellbeing. Selective breeding has developed herding predispositions, including herding instinct and cognitive abilities, at the expense of predatory instinct. Understanding the genetic and environmental factors associated with wellbeing, and using ethical training methods benefits both dogs and livestock by allowing herding dogs to fully realise their natural behaviours.