Dog Behaviour and Owner Perception: Implications for Management and Canine Welfare

Abstract

Dogs are an important part of many households and owners understanding of dog behaviour may influence the way they handle and manage their dogs. The present study was conducted to study selected characteristics of dog ownership, management practices and owner perception of canine behaviour. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted ussing a structured questionnaire among dog owners. Information was collected on feeding practices, source of the dog, purpose of keeping the dog, time spent with the dog and different behavioural characteristics. Most owners (85%) reported spending four hours or more with their dogs each day. Mixed feeding was the most common feeding practice (77%). Friends or family were the most common source of dogs (46%), followed by breeders and stray dogs (23% each). Most owners kept dogs mainly as a hobby (62%). The behavioural responses varied between owners, particularly for barking, hyperactivity, overexcitement, fear and aggression-related behaviours. The findings suggest that owner perception is an important part of understanding canine behaviour. Better awareness of normal and problem behaviours may help owners in appropriate management and may contribute to canine welfare.