Fears a dogs’ behaviour crisis could lead to more dumped pets
A CHARITY fears up to 40,000 dogs will soon be at risk of abandonment as it also revealed research shows more than a quarter of owners in the East Midlands say their pet has developed at least one new problem behaviour during lockdown.
Dogs Trust is issuing advice to owners to help them manage their dogs’ 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 Loughborough, has issued the first results from research investigating the impact of Covid-19 lockdown measures on dogs and their owners.
The charity surveyed more than 6,000 dog owners in May about the impact of the coronavirus crisis on their dog. Those who took part were asked about their dogs’ routines, walks, enrichment and time spent alone during and before lockdown.
A quarter reported their pet’s routine had changed, including having fewer walks, as owners stuck to government guidance, and being less likely to be allowed to run off-lead.
More than a quarter of dog owners (29 per cent) in the area reported their dog showed at least one new problem behaviour during lockdown.
Owners were also asked about the occurrence of behaviours in different situations before and during the lockdown period.
The findings showed there was a:
■ 72 per cent increase in reports of dogs whining or barking when a household member was busy.
■ 29 per cent increase in reports of dogs frequently seeking attention from their owner.
■ 25 per cent rise in the number of people saying their dog has hidden or moved away when approached.
■ 44 per cent increase in reports of dogs being clingy or following people around the house during lockdown.
In addition to these findings, after lockdown started, Google searches for “dog bark” increased by around 48 per cent and searches for “dog bite” increased by around 40 per cent, suggesting people were actively seeking help online about their dog’s behaviour.
Dogs Trust predicts up to 40,000 dogs could be at risk of abandonment as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. A rise in problematic behaviours, due to lockdown measures, could compound this issue still further if families find these behaviours difficult to manage, and have no other option but to give up their dog.
Rachel Casey, director of canine behaviour and research at Dogs Trust, said: “These are challenging times as millions of us have had our daily lives turned upside down.
“Whilst some dogs have been happy to have their human family at home more, others have been stressed by reduced exercise, inability to find a quiet place to rest or no contact with other dogs.
“Our research shows some early warning signs that lockdown is having a negative impact on some dogs’ behaviour.”
• For information on managing behaviours, visit www. dogstrust. org. uk/ changethetale