A Qualitative Exploration of Young Canadians’ Experiences of Undesired Dog Behaviours

Abstract

There is a need for research that explores the challenges associated with dog ownership. In particular, increasing our understanding of how young people manage their dog’s undesired behaviours can inform a more nuanced perspective of dog ownership as well as highlight the impact of such interactions on both dogs and young people. This qualitative study addresses this gap in the human–animal interactions literature through a secondary analysis of a data set of transcribed semi-structured interviews with seven participants aged between 17–26 years. The data were collected during a larger investigation that focused on young people’s relationships with their dogs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using thematic analyses, we examined interviews that probed participants’ experiences and responses when their dogs misbehaved. The findings identified and explored three emerging themes including Attachment Patterns, which was supported by the codes of connection and kinship. The second theme was Synchrony and/or Lack of Synchrony, which was supported by the codes of reaction and communication. The third theme was Response to Challenging Situations, supported by the codes of emotional reactions and coping styles. Findings suggest that participants handled their dog’s undesired behaviours in unique ways and that such situations may negatively impact their emotions. Undesired dog behaviours were not related to participants’ perceptions of poor attachment patterns towards their dogs. These findings can inform efforts to foster positive interactions between young people and their dogs and reduce dog surrenders.