Abstract

KOSCINCZUK, P.. Rev. vet. [online]. 2017, vol.28, n.1, pp.78-87. ISSN 1669-6840.

The dog is one of the species best adapted for living with humans that inhabits all the continents except Antarctica. After a long process of domestication, dogs have modified not only physical appearance but also their behavior. The most antique breeds descend from wolves were originated in Africa and Asia. However, the biggest increase in dogs´ population had taken place in Europe since the 1800s. Through selective breeding, managed by men and based upon the phenotype, hundreds of breeds had emerged, and each one is recognized and classified according to specific physical features. Other classification takes into account dogs´ dependence on humans in order to obtain food and shelter. When it comes to evaluate domestic dog's welfare such diversity of classifications should be considered. Some complex situations regarding health (prognathous, dysplasia, acondrodysplasia) as well as those associated with negative emotions -such as fear and anxiety- that affect sociability with humans may arise due to undesirable fixation of some genes in particular breeds. In some cases dogs are considered as members of the family but this does not mean that they must live according to human needs. Dogs have behavior needs and their own way of communication. Feeding rituals, resting places, playing areas, and others practices have an important impact on their wellness. Animals must be protected and the implementation of animal rights is a huge progress, but it is still not enough. Education is also essential. It is necessary to teach basic concepts about animal needs to avoid unnecessary suffering: pet abandonment, control of reproduction and inheritable pathologies, among others. Only after these conditions are met it will be possible to discuss from different points of view and perhaps jurisprudence may properly work

Keywords : canine; basic needs; feeding; socialization.

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