Dogs showing separation-related behaviour exhibit a ‘pessimistic’ cognitive bias

摘要: Summary Up to five million pet dogs in the UK (∼50% of population) may, at some stage their lives, perform undesirable separation-related behaviour (SRB) when left home alone [1], including vocalising, destruction and toileting [2]. Some owners perceive dog be ‘fine' or even ‘happy' performing SRB [3], a few seek professional help others relinquish [4]. Given magnitude issue varied perceptions owners, underlying emotional (affective) states showing SRB, hence welfare, requires elucidation. Whilst most are believed anxious [1,2], it is uncertain whether background affective state (mood) they not separated also negative [1]. Here we use new ‘cognitive bias' measure animal affect show that which exhibit high levels separation test appear have more mood.