Description: When it comes to working and sporting dogs, brains are just as important as brawn. These dogs are not only bred for their physical abilities, but also their instincts and mental characteristics. Yet surprisingly, we know very little about how their brains function. The Canine Brains Project is conducting a non-invasive brain imaging study aimed at understanding the brains of dogs from historically working breeds.
Our aim is to identify the specific brain regions involved in different working behaviors and examine how these regions are influenced by training (or lack of training) for working roles. Additionally, by collecting genetic data, we will investigate which genes are relevant to working dog behaviors and how they relate to brain anatomy. A major goal of this research is to benefit the working dog community by improving breeding and training practices.
Study Details: The study takes place in the Canine Brains Project’s laboratory suite at Harvard University’s Center for Brain Science in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Funding for travel and lodging is available for participants who travel from out-of-state. Free parking is available. Dog brain scans are supervised by experienced veterinarians on the Canine Brains Project team. A member of our veterinary team will confer with the dog’s attending vet prior to participation and will perform an additional physical exam on the day of the brain scan. Genetic data will be collected using a cheek swab and behavioral data will be drawn from questionnaires.
Eligibility: The study is currently open to Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Border Collies, and Eurohounds (sprint racing sled dogs) who are at least 1 year of age and in good health. We are interested in dogs who are actively engaged in work, as well as dogs who have little to no training for specific jobs. Dogs should have no metal anywhere inside or on their body (microchips are fine).
Scheduling: We are currently enrolling Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Border Collies, and Eurohounds. Enrollment will end August 1st of 2024.
Enrollment: To enroll your dog in this study, please fill out the pre-registration form and/or email Sophie Barton at sbarton@g.harvard.edu. If you’re interested in the study but not sure yet if you’d like to participate with your dog, please reach out to Sophie for more information.