Restraint and Handling of Wild and Domestic Animals (3rd Edition) - Murray E. Fowler
CHAPTER 15
DOGS
Page 181: 'Possibly the dog has been domesticated longer than any other animal. 3 We have manipulated the gene pool of this species until greater physical and behavioral variations exist from breed to breed than in anyother species of animal.' [sic]
Page 181: 'The behavior of a dog is determined by breed, training, previous disagreeable experiences, and degree of human association. Canids have been studied in depth by animal behaviorists; numerous texts elucidate various aspects of canine behavior ... Adverse behavioral patterns usually develop as the result of abuse or lack of understanding on the part of a dog owner. In this book dogs are classified in the following categories for restraint purposes:
1. The stray or free-roaming dog that has little association with people except, perhaps, when fed. If owned, the owner may be afraid of the dog. These dogs must be handled as if they are wild canids because they are liable to bite with the slightest provocation.
2. The well-cared-for pet or working dog. Fortunately most dogs are in this category. They are docile and respond to a low-pitched soothing voice and slow, deliberate handling.
3. The extremely nervous, frightened dog. This dog can be recognized by an anxious expression, rapid movements of the head, and constant pricking of the ears in response to every sound or movement. The head will likely be ducked and the animal may cower in a corner. The lips may be pulled back in a grimace. These animals may also be boisterous and attempt to nip at the handler. Above all, they can be expected to bite in response to almost any type of approach. All these signs telegraph “beware!” to a perceptive handler. There is little question that there are neurotic and even psychotic dogs that are unpredictable, to say the least.
4. The vicious, aggressive dog. Many of these dogs are large, are capable of inflicting serious injury, and will bite with little or no provocation. These dogs do not always exhibit aggressiveness in an obvious manner, but signs of potential viciousness can be seen. The head is held low, and these dogs will not look directly at you. They may attack without warning.
Page 182: 'Rough handling may provoke adverse responses in the most amiable of dogs. Gentleness is wisest when dealing with any dog. Confidence and calmness are necessary for successful control.'
(Fowler, M. E., 2008. Restraint and Handling of Wild and Domestic Animals (3rd Edition). Ames, Iowa. Wiley-Blackwell.)