The social organization of free-ranging urban dogs. I. Non-estrous social behavior

摘要: Abstract Free-ranging domestic dogs ( Canis familiaris ) in Newark, New Jersey (U.S.A.), were studied during summer (1978) and winter (1978–1979) months. Population densities of approximately 400 per square mile a sex ratio 3 males: 1 female found for each three study areas. typically large, owned individuals; strays monority. Of four different group types identified this (familiar, unfamiliar, people-mediated estrous), the first are described. The social organization non-breeding periods was characterized by majority solitary individuals. relatively few groups observed rarely contained more than two Familiarity between primary basis sociality, although distance dog from its home-site, body size, age ownership status also influenced behavior. There no seasonal variation these patterns. Aggression rare mutual avoidance spacing mechanism. However, those agonistic interactions that did occur, unfamiliar involved 5–15 times frequently familiar dogs. Home-range movements individuals largely restricted to areas around home-site. size correlated dog's much size. evidence territoriality. Resources such as food shelter concentrating where available. Major, predictable changes available had effect on Likewise, environmental parameters human presence weather conditions generally behavior indirectly.