Characteristics associated with behavior problems in Brazilian dogs

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The current study investigated associations between behavioral problems in Brazilian dogs and the demographic characteristics of both the dogs and their owners, as well as the quality of owner-dog relationship. Although Brazil has a large population of dogs, little is known about their behavioral profiles and to what extent they are comparable to those of other cultures. For this investigation, we developed a Portuguese language version of the C-BARQ (Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire) and evaluated its psychometrics properties, since it provides a broad and quantitative description of dog behavior, and has been widely validated across multiple countries. A convenience sample of 1741 owners completed the final questionnaire, and Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analyses were used to extract and confirm a 12-factor solution with excellent reliability characteristics. We then applied logistic regression models to investigate which owners’ and dogs’ characteristics, as well as characteristics of their relationships, were associated with the higher scores of behavior problems based on Brazilian C-BARQ data. Important associations were observed. Owner’s gender (female) was found to be associated with separation-related problems in dogs, as well as fear of other dogs, attention-seeking behavior, excitability, and energy. Mixed-breed status (unknown breed) was associated with more aggression towards other dogs, fear of strangers and other dogs, nonsocial fear, and separation-related problems. Aggression towards strangers and attention-seeking behaviors were exhibited more often by those dogs that were not walked by their owners. Our results revealed relevant aspects influencing dog behavioral problems and emphasizes the importance of evaluating dog behavior problems in light of cultural influences.