Dog enthusiasts have long assumed that a canine's behaviour and temperament is down to its breed.
Pitbulls are stereotypically known for being aggressive and Labradors have a reputation for being lovable.
But contrary to popular belief, there is no real link between a dog's breed and its character.
A new study has compared the behaviour and ancestry of 18,500 dogs to determine that breed has much less to do with personality than we all thought.
The research was carried out at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School and included data from 78 breeds altogether.
While 11 genetic loci were closely linked with behaviour, none of these were specific to breed.
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In fact, breed explained only around nine per cent of the variation, with age and sex having a much larger impact on temperament.
Caroyln Menteith, puppy and dog behaviour consultant for Zigzag, believes we all need to stop generalising dog behaviour based on common stereotypes and misconceptions.
She told The Mirror : "This research indicates that the link between breed and sociability is far more complex than we have previously thought, and highlights the need for more scientific research when it comes to understanding the dogs who share our lives.
"If we are to truly understand our canine companions, we need to recognise them as individuals who have unique personalities and identities - without getting hung up on our own expectations.
"Not all German Shepherds will guard your house and not all Labradors will love everyone.
"Many people have misguided expectations of their dogs and quickly lose patience when they are not behaving a certain way, and often fail to understand that dogs are sentient beings with their own thoughts and feelings.
"A dog’s personality will develop based on the right environment, training and the bond they create with their human family.
"The challenge - and joy - for new owners is to create the perfect environment and optimal learning opportunities so that each individual grows into the family addition that every new owner dreams of when they bring their friend home."
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