Lockdown’s impact on dogs

ALMOST a third of owners (30%) in the North West say their dog has developed at least one new problem behaviour during lockdown, according to new research released today by Dogs Trust.

The charity is issuing advice to owners to help them manage their dog’s behaviour and is asking them to act now, to help their dogs adjust to when they return to work.

The UK’s largest dog welfare charity, which has a rehoming centre in Merseyside and Manchester has issued the first results from research investigating the impact of Covid-19 lockdown measures on dogs and their owners.

The charity surveyed over 6,000 dog owners in May this year, including dog owners in the North West about the impact of the coronavirus crisis on their dog.

Almost a quarter of owners in the North West (24%) reported that their dogs routine had changed a lot, including having less walks – as owners stuck to Government guidance – and being less likely to be allowed to run off-lead.

Worryingly almost a third of dog owners (30%) in the area reported that their dog showed at least one new problem behaviour during lockdown.

Behaviour problems are easier to prevent than treat, so Dogs Trust is encouraging owners to take steps now to change the tale and ensure problems don’t develop when things return towards normal.

The risk of dogs developing separation anxiety is an urgent concern raised by the charity.

If you have a dog who is used to being left alone, make sure you maintain their ability to cope with this by introducing periods of separation during the day when you are in the house (eg behind a baby gate whilst you are working from home) and try and sometimes leave your dog at home when you go out for essential trips.

Dogs Trust