Behavioural testing of dogs in animal shelters to predict problem behaviour

Abstract

Although it is comparatively easy to find new homes for many dogs in animal shelters, a large proportion of these animals are eventually returned. This is due partly to a poor ‘match’ between dog and new owner. A better prediction of problem behaviour could improve the matching procedure. A set of tests was developed to test four problem-related behavioural characteristics, namely aggression, fear, obedience and separation anxiety, as well as a category of miscellaneous problem-related behaviours. A range of stimuli were used, including humans, animals and visual and acoustic stimuli from objects. To validate the results from the 81 dogs tested and the opinions of the staff of the animal shelters about these dogs, they were compared with the experiences of the new owners of the animals. This comparison showed that behavioural testing provides a better prediction of problem behaviour than do the opinions of the staff. Therefore, testing may be a useful and valuable instrument to improve the matching between dog and future owner, provided of course that adequate information is available about the character and background of the future owner.