Quck answer
Animals do have personalities, which are consistent and stable over time. Studies have shown that certain traits, such as boldness, sociability, and aggression, vary among individual animals of the same species. These traits can affect an animal’s behavior and response to its environment, and may even have an impact on survival and reproductive success. However, the extent to which personality is influenced by genetics or environment is still being investigated. Overall, recognizing and understanding animal personalities can help in conservation efforts and improve animal welfare.
Animal Facts
Have you ever wondered if your adorable pug has a unique personality? You can witness animal personalities in action by visiting a local dog park where you will see a miniature pinscher confidently entering the middle of a wrestling match among a pack of large dogs while the mixed breed Labrador tentatively sticks to her owner’s pant leg. Pet owners are quick to associate personalities with their pets, but what do scientists believe about this idea? Is it feasible for animals to have irritable, adventurous, neurotic, or even a combination of these characteristics?
In order to determine whether animals have personalities, we need to define what personality is, which is quite difficult. Definitions of personality range from general to precise. For example, personality could merely entail any collection of traits, or might necessitate the traits be unique, dynamic, and enduring [source: Cottam]. Some psychologists question whether personality is even definable, judging from the inconsistency of traits in people [source: OUP]. Nevertheless, scientists need to know what to look for when they attempt to determine if an animal has a personality or not.
Keep reading to find out how scientists empirically study this concept and what research reveals about the depth and consistency of an animal’s personality compared to a human’s.
Polly, want a Prozac?
In 2007, Eli Lilly, the company that produces Prozac, developed a chewable antidepressant for dogs, which the FDA approved. Reconcile, the dog-friendly antidepressant, even has a beef flavor. When combined with therapy, the drug successfully treated a little over 70 percent of depressed dogs [source: Booth].
Experts also note that parrots suffer from depression when they are left alone at home. Romain Pizzi, a specialist in animal medicine, observes that parrots will even harm themselves during bouts of depression, and liquid Prozac has helped stop that behavior [source: Cleland].
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Animal Personality Studies
Dutch scientists studied the Great Tit (Parus major), looking for personality traits
iStockPhoto/Andrew Howe
Studying animal personality may seem ridiculous to some; indeed, scientists who want to investigate the subject have had to overcome skepticism in the academic world [source: Dye]. However, their efforts seem to be paying off, as research on animal personality has been increasing steadily since the 1990s.
For example, Dr. Samuel Gosling has been promoting research in the area of animal personality and has gained media attention for his research on dog personality. Since dogs cannot communicate their feelings and behavior, Gosling compared how observers interpret personality in other humans and in dogs. In one test, observers who were unfamiliar with the people and the dogs evaluated them based on their behavior while performing various activities. In the other test within the study, friends who were familiar with the people and the dogs assessed their personalities. The participants indicated if they found the people and the dogs extroverted, agreeable, neurotic, and open. Gosling discovered that these judgments were consistent for the humans and the dogs [Source: Gosling]. This and other methods have led Gosling and others to believe that not only is it possible to study personality in animals, but that dogs indeed have distinct personalities.
Do animals have personalities? This question has been researched by scientists who have studied various species. Researchers in the Netherlands studied the behavior of wild birds, called great tits, and found distinct and varied personalities among the species. Some birds were aggressive, while others were shy. The studies also found evidence that personality is genetically inherited. Other studies have found personality traits in various species such as hyenas, ferrets, primates, spiders, and fish. Although skeptics question the reliability of using human personality terms on animals, the research continues to grow. The studies have practical benefits, such as accurately assessing a dog’s personality, which could help people find a dog that matches their own tastes and temperaments. Animal personality studies also have great potential to shed light on human personality. Scientists can observe animals more extensively and longer than they can humans, and can even inject hormones into animals or test drugs that affect neurotransmitter activity to observe their effects on behavior. Animal research could also tell us a lot about the evolution of human personality.
If you want to learn more about the study of animal personalities and read related articles on the subject, check out the links on the following page. Have you heard of the “Bowlingual,” a device invented by a Japanese company called Takara that claims to interpret a dog’s emotions? This gadget uses a microphone on the dog’s collar to read its barks, growls, or whimpers, and then sends a signal to a handheld console that displays what the dog is trying to say. The console shows simple phrases, such as “How boring” and “I’m arf-ully lonely. Please play with me more.” Takara developed this gadget by hiring animal behaviorists to study dog noises and translate them. If you’re interested in learning more about dogs and animals, check out the related HowStuffWorks articles listed under “Lots More Information.” You can also explore links to the Animal Personality Institute, tips for dealing with your cat’s depression and anxiety issues, and more. Sources for the information in this article are also listed.
FAQ
1. Do animals have personalities?
Yes, animals do have personalities. While it might be difficult to measure and quantify their personalities in the same way we do with humans, research has shown that animals have unique and consistent behavioral traits that can be considered as their personality. For example, some dogs may be more outgoing and playful, while others may be more reserved and cautious. Similarly, some chimpanzees may be more dominant and aggressive, while others may be more social and cooperative.
2. Can an animal’s personality change over time?
Yes, an animal’s personality can change over time. Just like humans, animals can experience different life events that can shape and influence their behavior. For example, a dog that was once outgoing and playful may become more anxious and withdrawn after experiencing a traumatic event. Similarly, a chimpanzee that was once dominant and aggressive may become more submissive and cooperative after being introduced to a new social group.
3. Are certain animal species more likely to have personalities than others?
While all animals have personalities, some species may exhibit more pronounced and diverse personalities than others. For example, primates such as chimpanzees and bonobos are known to have complex social structures and exhibit a wide range of personality traits. Similarly, dogs and cats are domesticated animals that have been selectively bred for certain personality traits, such as loyalty and affection.
4. How do researchers study animal personalities?
Researchers study animal personalities by observing and recording an animal’s behavior in various situations over a period of time. They may use standardized tests to measure traits such as aggression, sociability, and impulsivity. They may also look at an animal’s response to different environmental and social stimuli to determine their personality traits. Additionally, researchers may use advanced technologies such as neuroimaging and genetic analysis to better understand the underlying mechanisms that contribute to animal personality.
5. What is the significance of studying animal personalities?
Studying animal personalities can help us better understand the behavior and cognition of animals. It can also help us develop more effective strategies for animal management and welfare. For example, by understanding an animal’s personality, we can provide them with an environment that is better suited to their needs and preferences. Additionally, understanding animal personalities can help us develop more effective training and enrichment programs for animals in captivity, and can help us better manage wild animal populations.
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