Research Bites Podcast
Research Bites Podcast
Kristina Spaulding, PhD, CAAB
#35: Dr. (Jessica) Perry Hekman – What Genetics Really Tells Us About Dog Behavior
1 hour 5 minutes Posted Oct 7, 2025 at 1:00 pm.
Meet Jessica Perry Hekman, DVM and PhD
Journey into Behavioral Genetics
Understanding Genetics and Genomics
Behavioral Phenotypes and Genetics
Exploring Heritability and Epigenetics
Breed and Behavior in Dogs
The Functional Dog Collaborative
Defining Responsible Breeding
The Role of Dog Trainers in Breeding
Final Thoughts and Future Research
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1:05:45
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Show notes
In this episode of the Research Bites Podcast, Dr. Kristina Spaulding talks with Dr. (Jessica) Perry Hekman, DVM, PhD — behavioral geneticist and co-founder of the Functional Dog Collaborative — about what genetics can (and can’t) tell us about dog behavior. Dr. Hekman shares her journey from veterinary practice to genetics research and helps unpack key concepts like heritability, epigenetics, and behavioral phenotypes. Together, they explore what the science really says about breed and behav...