Canine Brain Bank Could Reduce Dog Bites

Dog bites are increasing in Australia, with over 9,500 cases in 2021-’22.

Governments are introducing tougher penalties, but a better solution might be a canine brain bank.

This would collect brain tissue from dogs euthanised for aggression to find genetic markers that predict which dogs are more likely to bite.

Currently, identifying aggressive dogs is difficult because they can be mixed breeds, and breed alone doesn't explain much of their behaviour.

Genetic studies show that aggression is complex, and a brain bank could help develop simple blood tests to identify high-risk dogs.

This would allow shelters and breeders to manage dogs better, ensuring they go to the right homes and receive proper training.

However, genetics is just one part of the story; how dogs are raised and trained also plays a big role.

A combined approach of genetic testing and behavioural assessments could help prevent dog attacks more effectively.