Table 2. The ethogram utilised in this study for the observational session in the novel object test.

Behavioural patterns	Operational definition
Sniff the novel object (1)	Putting the muzzle on the object, the dog sniffs the inflatable, investigating it without showing fear.
Look at the novel object while wagging the tail (1)	Looking at the inflatable when near it, or from a moderate distance, the dog wags the tail.
Invite the novel object to play (1)	Bending down with the forelegs outstretched on the ground and the rump upwards, the dog invites the inflatable to play while near it or from a moderate distance.
Bark at the novel object (0)	Looking closely at the inflatable, from a moderate distance, or from a considerable distance, the dog barks at it.
Growl at the novel object (0)	Looking closely at the inflatable, from a moderate distance, or from a considerable distance, the dog growls towards it.
Ears down (0)	Looking closely at the inflatable, from a moderate distance, or from a considerable distance, the dog lowers the ears, presses them on the head, or holds them back.
Tail between the legs (0)	Looking closely at the inflatable, from a moderate distance, or from a considerable distance, the dog holds the tail down or tightly between the hind legs and against the belly.
Avoid (0)	Although the dog has clearly seen the inflatable, ignores it and behaves as if it does not exist, but accurately avoids being close to it.
Walk backwards (0)	Looking closely at the inflatable, from a moderate distance, or from a considerable distance, the dog walks backwards, clearly frightened.
Fleeing from the novel object (0)	Looking closely at the inflatable, from a moderate distance, or from a considerable distance, the dog flees further away from it, clearly frightened.

The reactions of the dogs were classified as positive (1) or negative (0).