A study conducted by North Carolina State University (USA) and published in Frontiers in pain researchwanted to investigate whether there are differences in pain sensitivity between dog breeds.
According to Margaret Gruen, associate professor of behavioral medicine at North Carolina State University, the goal was to examine whether veterinarians’ beliefs about the pain resistance of different breeds are true. To do this, the research analyzed the sensitivity of 15 dogs of 10 breeds, ranking their susceptibility.
There are dogs with a greater sensitivity to pain
To clarify this, the research team examined healthy adult dogs, both female and male. A total of 149 animals took part in the study. To check pressure and temperature sensitivity, each of the 149 dogs The participants underwent specific tests.
The breeds studied were previously categorized by veterinarians according to a subjective scale of high, medium and low pain resistance.
To apply pressure to the animals’ paws, the researchers used a penlike tool with one end pointed and the other flattened. In addition, a heated piece was used to check temperature sensitivity.
The results of the pressure and temperature sensitivity tests were compared to questionnaires from veterinarians and the public. In these documents, they expressed their views on the sensitivity of each breed of dog.
After the analyzes, the scientists from North Carolina State University found that there are real differences dog breeds on the subject of pain.
Surprisingly, however, such distinctions do not always correspond to the classifications previously made by veterinarians.
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The results of the study showed that Maltese dogs had a low pain tolerance and responded quickly to pressure and temperature stimuli.
These results are consistent with classifications of the breed made by veterinarians. It has even been found that other dogs have a higher sensitivity to pain, including the Miniature Poodle and the Chihuahua.
The results are important in providing answers to each breed’s individual needs for pain management and veterinary care.
The results also underscore the need for an individualized approach to treatment and consideration of each dog’s specific needs, taking into account susceptibility to pain.