A Harvard study into how working dogs' brains have evolved for their function

We hear a lot about breeding in working dogs. Yet we know little about their brains:  How might a guide dog’s brain differ from that of a hunting hound? Where does personality fit in with a working dog?  Can a dog have ADHD?  Kate Fairweather asks these questions and more of Sophie Barton of the Canine Brains Project, based in the Hecht Lab at Harvard University in Boston. Sophie oversees the Working Breed Study at the Canine Brains Project. This is a non-invasive brain imaging study into selected working breeds. A major goal of this research is to benefit the working dog community by improving breeding and training practices. Participate in The Working Breeds Study  More about the Canine Brains Project  Do you work your dog or dogs? Get in touch with Kate via team@shineradio.uk if you have a dog that does an interesting job. She loves to hear about working dogs. Also, if you have suggestions for guests for the podcast - either handlers or people who are working in an academic or training area in this field, please do get in touch! © & ℗ Kate Fairweather, 2024  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Om Podcasten

Celebrate the frontline workers of the canine world. Kate Fairweather comes face to face with a diverse cast of working dogs, perfectly equipped with the instincts, intelligence and training to handle everything their jobs throw at them. Humans and dogs have worked together for centuries - and still do today in our communities. Some work with handlers, drawing on their natural hunting, herding, or guarding instincts, or an exceptional sense of smell. Others perform caring roles, providing companionship and support to humans. Podcast of the Year at the Community Radio Awards 2022. Produced by volunteers at Petersfield's Shine Radio. Contact Kate at team@shineradio.uk or call 01730 555 500.