Katriina Tiira
PhD, Associate Professor | SmatDOG
We are honored to present Katriina Tiira as an In-Person Speaker at the Dog People Evolution Conference 2025.
Dr. Katriina Tiira is a pioneer in the field of animal behavior, with a career marked by a commitment to understanding the intricate relationship between dogs and humans. She began her academic journey with a PhD in Animal Behavior Science from the University of Helsinki in 2001, where she focused on aggressive behaviors in salmonids. This early work laid the foundation for a lifelong exploration into behavioral science. At the Dog People Evolution Conference, Dr. Tiira will share her personal journey of growth and transformation within the field. Her work reflects the ongoing change in how we understand, train, and live with dogs, offering a fresh perspective on how human practices in the dog industry continue to evolve.
More About Katriina
In 2008, Dr. Tiira’s focus shifted to canine behavior and its genetic underpinnings. Her research on traits like fear, noise sensitivity, and stereotypic behaviors expanded our understanding of how genetics influences the behaviors we see in dogs. Between 2008 and 2016, she worked as a senior postdoctoral researcher in Professor Hannes Lohi's renowned Canine Genetic Research group at the University of Helsinki, helping to uncover the genetic components behind various canine behaviors.
Advancing Canine Research Through Personality and Cognitive Testing
In 2016, Dr. Tiira took a significant step in her career by founding smartDOG, a company focused on personality and cognitive testing in dogs. The science-based SmartDOG tests are designed to provide owners with meaningful insights into their dogs' cognitive and personality traits. The company has since gathered data from over 7,000 dogs, which has become an invaluable resource for research. Recent studies have examined how cognitive traits differ across dog breeds and how these traits impact everyday life, providing deeper insights into the human-dog connection.
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Practical Experience and Personal Insights
Throughout her career, Dr. Tiira has also remained deeply connected to the practical side of the dog world, with extensive experience in dog training and competition. Since 1986, she has trained and competed with dogs in a range of disciplines, including search, tracking, hunting trials, and obedience. This hands-on experience has shaped her understanding of the evolving role of dogs in our lives and the changes within the dog industry.
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Outside of her professional life, Dr. Tiira enjoys life with her husband, three adult daughters (with one still living at home), and two beloved dogs: Nala, a curly-coated retriever, and Tauno, a hunting-line Labrador.
Join us to hear Dr. Tiira’s insights on how her research and personal experiences are contributing to the change within the dog industry and beyond.