'Obedient, but cheeky': Guardian Expectations of Canine Behavior and Companionship

Abstract

Whilst dogs are adored companions worldwide, with an array of benefits associated with their companionship, high numbers continue to be relinquished each year due to perceived behavioural concerns. Subsequently, this paper addresses the question; What are guardian’s expectations of canine behaviour and companionship? Following a reflexive thematic analysis, five themes are discussed; A well-balanced dog, Obedient, Affection and Connection, Shared Interests, and Commitment. The findings highlight a wide range of expectations typically moving beyond realistic capabilities for both dogs and their guardians. Resultantly, we call for clearer conceptualization of canine behaviour, particularly in relation to the distinction between observable behaviour and behavioural interpretations (personality, temperament etc.). The findings build on the Perceived Canine Reactivity Framework aimed at accounting for the interplay between canine characteristics, human expectations and human capabilities when interpreting dog behaviour. Clarification on the facets of dog behaviour, in addition to better understanding guardian expectations, will aid the development of educational materials aimed at supporting existing human-dog relationships and the adoption matching process within canine adoptions. Accumulatively, this would aid successful human-dog bonding, reducing the risk for relinquishment.

The dog was not happy, people we met weren't happy and I wasn't happy: guardian support-seeking for perceived inappropriate canine behaviors

“…As perceptions around dog behavior are inextricably linked with both guardian expectations and their capability to manage these behaviors (Stephens-Lewis et al, 2022;Stephens-Lewis & Schenke, 2023), the current research aimed to further understand why, when and where guardians seek support for canine behavior they deem to be inappropriate. Additionally, the research aimed to investigate hypothetical adoption of dogs displaying inappropriate or reactive behaviors, and relinquishment.…”

“…The current research replicated prior research in reporting high levels of perceived inappropriate behaviors (Lord et al, 2020;Pirrone et al, 2015), with most participants reporting multiple inappropriate behaviors within their canine companions. This could be a true reflection of the frequency of inappropriate behaviors in canine companions (potentially due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic; Boardman & Farnworth, 2022;Christley et al, 2020;Jakeman et al, 2020;Owczarczak-Garstecka et al, 2021;Parente et al, 2021), or it may reflect behaviors that, whilst part of the 'normal' dog behavior spectrum, violate the expectations of their human guardians (Olsen, 2018;Stephens-Lewis et al, 2022;Stephens-Lewis & Schenke, 2023). Therefore, gaining an insight into how guardians navigate the management of these perceived inappropriate behaviors, and when (and where) they choose to seek support when they lack the relevant expertise is integral.…”

“…Such behaviors can diminish the human-canine bond due to the perceived burden and negative emotional impact experienced by guardians (Buller & Ballantyne, 2020;Wells & Hepper, 2000). Furthermore, reactive behaviors can limit opportunities for engagement in shared activities (e.g., hiking, attending coffee shops, going travelling), a key expectation associated with canine companionship (Stephens-Lewis & Schenke, 2023).…”

“…However, the relationship between perceived behavioral concerns and relinquishment is further complicated by the variable, and often complex, expectations of guardians (Stephens-Lewis & Schenke, 2023). For example, not only do guardian perceptions differ in terms of what behaviors are considered problematic, such perceptions are also inextricably associated with both guardian expectations for dog behavior and their own capabilities for managing such behaviors (Stephens-Lewis et al, 2022;Stephens-Lewis & Schenke, 2023). This complex interplay can impact on canine relinquishment decisions.…”

“…This complex interplay can impact on canine relinquishment decisions. For example, recent research highlighted that while guardians deemed commitment as a core expectation for dog guardianship, such commitment was based on a sense of responsibility for making assessments on the needs of the dog, and their own capability for meeting such needs safely (Stephens-Lewis & Schenke, 2023). As such, assessing human perceived capability may be integral to reducing canine relinquishment.…”