Genetics and the Behavior of Domestic Animals, Third Edition offers the latest and most valuable information on animal science and behavioral genetics, carrying on the book’s legacy since its original publication in 1998. This book synthesizes research from behavioral genetics and animal and veterinary science, bridging the gap between these fields. The objective is to show that principles of behavioral genetics have practical applications to agricultural and companion animals.
The continuing domestication of animals is a complex process whose myriad impacts on animal behavior are commonly under-appreciated. Genetic factors play a significant role in both species-specific behaviors and behavioral differences exhibited by individuals in the same species. Leading authorities explore the impact of increased intensities of selection on domestic animal behavior. Rodents, cattle, pigs, sheep, horses, herding and guard dogs, and poultry are all included in these discussions of genetics and behavior, making this book useful to veterinarians, livestock producers, laboratory animal researchers and technicians, animal trainers and breeders, and any researcher interested in animal behavior.
Genetics and the Behavior of Domestic Animals, Third Edition
is the most valuable resource for researchers and practitioners in animal and veterinary science, animal behavior, genetics, ethology, and similar fields. Advanced undergraduate and graduate students in these disciplines will also benefit from the global expertise featured in this newest edition.
- Provides full and thorough updates to all chapters, ensuring dissemination of the latest data and research
- Synthesizes research from behavioral genetics, animal science, and veterinary literature
- Broaches fields of behavior genetics and behavioral research
- Includes practical applications of principles discovered by behavioral genetics researchers
- Covers many species ranging from pigs, dogs, foxes, rodents, cattle, horses, and cats
1. Behavioral Genetics and Animal Science
2. Behavioral Genetics and Animal Domestication
3. How Studying Interactions Between Animal Emotions, Cognition, and Personality Can Contribute to Improve Farm Animal Welfare
4. Genetics and Behavior During Handling, Restraint, and Herding
5. Reproductive and Maternal Behavior of Livestock
6. Differences in the Behavior of Landraces and Breeds of Dogs
7. Behavior Genetics of the Horse (Equus caballus)
8. Improving the Adaptability of Animals by Selection
9. Genetic Influences on the Behavior of Chickens Associated with Welfare and Productivity
10. Genetics of Domesticated Behavior in Dogs and Foxes
11. Behavioral Genetics of Pigs and Relation to Welfare
12. Genetics and Animal Welfare
Temple Grandin is one of the worlds most accomplished and well-known adults with autism. She is known for her work in animal behavior, welfare, and the design of cattle handling facilities. She has a PhD in animal science from the University of Illinois and is a professor at Colorado State University. She is the author of ten books, including the national bestsellers Thinking in Pictures, Animals in Translation, and Visual Thinking. Dr. Grandin is a past member of the board of directors of the Autism Society of America. She lectures to parents and teachers throughout the U.S. on her experiences with autism, and her work has been covered in the New York Times, People, National Public Radio, and the Wall Street Journal. Most recently she was named one of Time Magazines 100 most influential people of the year. The HBO movie based on her life, starring Claire Danes, received seven Emmy Awards. She is now a Distinguished Professor at Colorado State University. In 2025, she received the Humane Award from the American Veterinary Medical Association. A new documentary about her teaching and research was produced by Colorado State University. It is titled An Open Door.
