Final answer:
Nature (genes) and nurture (environment) both influence an animal's behavior. Genes provide a predisposition towards certain behaviors, but experiences and environment can shape the actual expression of those behaviors.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the study of animal behavior, both nature (genes) and nurture (environment) play a role in influencing an animal's behavior. Some behaviors are controlled solely by genes, while others are influenced by experiences in a given environment. This is known as the nature vs. nurture debate.
For example, in dogs, the tendency to behave towards other dogs in a certain way is likely controlled by genes. However, a dog's specific behavior towards other dogs can also be influenced by its past experiences and interactions with other dogs.
This shows that while genes may provide a predisposition towards certain behaviors, the actual expression of those behaviors can be shaped by the animal's experiences and environment.