This study aimed to evaluate and compare the behavioral profiles of three dog breeds—Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd, and Beagle—using the standardized Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire (C-BARQ). Sixty adult dogs (20 per breed) were evaluated through owner responses scored on a five-point Likert scale (1 = absence of behavior; 5 = maximum intensity). The questionnaire included 101 items grouped into seven behavioral domains: obedience, aggression, fear and anxiety, separation-related behavior, excitability, attachment and attention-seeking, and miscellaneous behaviors. Results revealed distinct behavioral patterns among breeds. German Shepherds demonstrated superior obedience (mean 4.5–4.8) and rapid learning capacity, confirming their suitability for working, guarding, and service tasks. However, they also exhibited higher levels of protective and territorial aggression, particularly toward unfamiliar people and dogs. Labrador Retrievers achieved the highest scores in sociability, play motivation, and tolerance, reflecting their reputation as balanced and family-friendly companions, though they displayed moderate sensitivity to loud noises and mild separation anxiety. Beagles showed elevated excitability, dependency, and curiosity-driven distractibility, combined with frequent vocalizations and destructive behaviors when left alone, consistent with their strong exploratory and hunting instincts. Breed-specific behavioral trends corresponded closely to their historical functions—retrieving, guarding, and hunting—highlighting the genetic and functional bases of temperament variation. These findings emphasize the importance of breed-tailored behavioral management, structured socialization, and positive reinforcement training to mitigate potential behavioral problems. Overall, the C-BARQ proved to be a reliable, non-invasive, and quantitative tool for assessing temperament in companion dogs, contributing valuable insights for applied ethology, responsible breeding, and optimal owner–dog pairing.

dog behavior, C-BARQ, Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd, Beagle, anxiety, aggression, obedience

biology

Presentation: poster