Science News from research organizations Golden Retriever genes linked to anxiety, aggression, and intelligence in humans A new study shows golden retrievers and humans may share some of the same genes that shape emotions, anxiety, intelligence, and behavior. Date: March 7, 2026 Source: University of Cambridge Summary: Scientists studying 1,300 golden retrievers have uncovered genetic clues explaining why some dogs are more anxious, energetic, or aggressive than others. Remarkably, several of the same genes linked to canine behavior are also tied to human traits like anxiety, depression, and intelligence. The discovery suggests dogs and humans share biological roots for emotions and behavior. Understanding these links could help owners better interpret their pets’ reactions and even improve training and veterinary care. Share: Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIN Email FULL STORY This golden retriever, involved in the study, shows ‘good behavior’. Credit: Morris Animal Foundation Researchers at the University of Cambridge have uncovered new insights into the emotional lives of dogs, helping explain why some golden retrievers are more anxious, energetic, or aggressive than others. Their study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences , is the first to demonstrate that certain genes connected to dog behavior are also linked to traits in humans such as anxiety, depression, and intelligence. Genetic clues behind golden retriever personality To investigate the biological roots of canine temperament, scientists examined the DNA of 1,300 golden retrievers and compared it with each dog's behavioral profile. Owners provided detailed survey responses describing their pets' habits and reactions. The researchers then matched this behavioral data with genetic information from each dog. This analysis uncovered specific genes associated with traits such as trainability, activity level, fear of unfamiliar people, and aggression toward other dogs. When the team compared these results with human genetic studies, they found that twelve of the genes linked to behavior in golden retrievers are also tied to emotional traits and behavior in people. "The findings are really striking -- they provide strong evidence that humans and golden retrievers have shared genetic roots for their behavior. The genes we identified frequently influence emotional states and behavior in both species," said Dr. Eleanor Raffan, a researcher in the University of Cambridge's Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience who led the study. One gene called PTPN1 stood out. In golden retrievers, it was associated with aggression toward other dogs. In humans, the same gene has been connected to intelligence and depression. Researchers also identified another genetic variant that appears in golden retrievers that are fearful of other dogs. In people, this variant influences whether someone tends to dwell on embarrassing experiences or achieve high educational success. The scientists say these discoveries could help dog owners better understand their pets' emotional responses and adjust training or care to match their individual needs. "These results show that genetics govern behavior, making some dogs predisposed to finding the world stressful. If their life experiences compound this they might act in ways we interpret as bad behavior, when really they're distressed," said Enoch Alex, a researcher in the University of Cambridge's Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience and first author of the report. Implications for dog training and veterinary care The study also identified a connection between trainability in golden retrievers and a gene known as ROMO1. In humans, this gene has been linked to intelligence and emotional sensitivity. Because of this link, researchers say dog training may involve more than simply reinforcing desired actions. A dog's emotional state may also play an important role in how easily it learns. The findings could also influence veterinary care. For instance, recognizing that certain fearful behaviors stem from genetic factors related to anxiety could guide the use of treatments designed to reduce stress. How genes shape behavior and emotion The genes identified in the study do not directly cause a specific behavior or emotion. Instead, they affect broader systems that regulate mood and behavioral responses. One example involves dogs that display 'non-social fear' (being afraid of things such as buses or hoovers). The researchers found a gene linked to this trait that, in humans, is associated with irritability, emotional sensitivity, and 'seeing the doctor for nerves or anxiety.' "If your golden retriever cowers behind the sofa every time the doorbell rings, perhaps you might have a bit more empathy if you know they're genetically driven to feel sensitive and anxious," said Dr. Anna Morros-Nuevo, a researcher in the University of Cambridge's Department of