Educational difficulties and behavioural problems in dogs: prevalence and risk factors

Abstract

Since dog relinquishment is mostly associated with behavioural problems linked to training difficulties, the aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and nature of behavioural issues as well as the difficulties encountered by owners when it comes to dog obedience. Despite the increasing awareness of the importance of proper dog training, a notable knowledge gap exists regarding specific challenges faced by owners and the factors of variation, such as breed or gender, that influence these challenges.

Data were collected through an online questionnaire on 300 dogs, with an age range from 1 to 15 years.  

Most dogs were adopted as puppies (48% before 3 months). 30% dogs came from a professional breeder, 30% from a private owner, 26% from a second adoption (e.g., association, experimental laboratory), and 14% from a family breeder. The majority (95%) of owners were informed about dog education. The Internet was the most frequent source of information (51% of owners). For 57% of dogs, the owner reported the presence of at least one undesirable behaviour. Environment excitation was the most common undesirable behaviour (30%), followed by vocalization (25%) and dog aggression (21%). Dogs adopted between 3 and 6 months old presented fewer behavioural problems than others.

Potty training was the most easily taught learning: 69% of dogs learnt it “very easily”, followed by 44 % for separation and 39% for socialization. The “sit” and “lie down” commands were the most easily assimilated, in contrast with the recall, stay still, walking on a leash and “calm down”. Dogs adopted after 6 months old were easier to train than dogs adopted before 6 months old.  Males seem to learn basic commands more easily than females and hunting dogs have more difficulties performing those commands than other breed groups.

This study evidenced the high frequency of undesirable behaviours and the difficulties of dog education. These results highlight the importance of keeping the owner informed before and during the educational process. Persistent undesirable behaviour should not be considered as a failure and owners should be encouraged to ask for assistance from a canine professional.