The link between selection for function and human-directed play behaviour in dogs

摘要: Human-directed play behaviour is a distinct behavioural feature of domestic dogs. But the role that artificial selection for contemporary dog breeds has played human-directed remains elusive. Here, we investigate how evolved in relation to different functions, considering processes shared ancestry and gene flow among breeds. We use American Kennel Club (AKC) breed group categorization reflect major functional differences combine this with observational data on over 132 across 89 352 individuals from Swedish Dog Mentality Assessment project. Our analyses demonstrate ancestor dogs already showed intermediate levels behaviour, are several modern types. Herding Sporting display higher statistically distinguishable Non-sporting Toy results suggest early domestication subsequent function been important variation phenotype mediating social bond humans.