What is the primary purpose of agnostic behaviors?

• A. To attract mates.
• B. To avoid social conflict or competitive encounters.
• C. To reduce energy expenditure.
• D. To indicate hunger.

Answer: (B)

Agnostic behaviors are signals dogs use to prevent fights and manage social interactions. Their primary purpose is to avoid social conflict or competitive encounters, reducing the risk of injury and helping maintain a social hierarchy. For example, a dog may avert gaze, lip lick, yawn, or turn away and yield space to another dog. These signals are not meant to attract mates, indicate hunger, or primarily conserve energy, though avoiding a fight can incidentally save energy.