In wolves, play behaviour reflects the partners' affiliative and dominance relationship.

摘要: Puppy packs (consisting of only puppies) and mixed-age (composed puppies adults) were observed to test whether social play can be used for assessing establishing relations in wolves, Canis lupus. Differently from previous studies, we looked at behaviours detail, allowing us categorize interactions as either competitive or relaxed, predicted that different types would associated with relationships between individuals. We found the more time dyads spent relaxed play, affiliative they exchanged outside play. In packs, both showed fewer exchanges aggressive behaviours. Conversely, puppy Since clear dominance emerged but not suggest help reduce frequency when a hierarchy exists pack members. Furthermore, reflected rarely reversed during Finally, less relationship playing way. Overall, our results support assessment hypothesis suggesting are playful interactions. Moreover, revealed how is, way, may related relationships. This distinction has been acknowledged before could researchers better understand functions species.