Comparing Owner-Rated Dog Temperament Measures and a Measure of Owner Personality: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

ABSTRACT There is growing interest in the relationship between dog temperament and owner personality. Such work has potential implications for the placement of assistance dogs and the minimization of behavioral issues arising from the interaction of owner and dog characteristics. In this study, we investigated the relationship between owner personality and dog temperament using established measures (Monash Canine Personality Questionnaire-Revised [MCPQ-R] and Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire [C-BARQ]) in a field study of 74 owners (97.3% female) and their 123 dogs of varying breeds. Higher owner scores on Conscientiousness were positively related to dog temperament scores for “training focus,” “motivation,” “amicability,” and “extraversion.” Higher owner scores on Extraversion and lower owner scores on Neuroticism were related to higher owner-rated scores on dog “amicability.” The current study also compared demographic measures related to the dog with the measures of temperament. Taller dogs were rated lower in this sample on the traits of “extraversion” and “motivation.” Dog breed group was significantly related to dog temperament ratings, with crossbreeds rated higher for “motivation” and working dogs rated higher for “training focus.” Gun dogs, utility dogs, and crossbreeds were rated significantly higher than hounds for “amicability.” This study provides evidence that the use of a short-form dog temperament questionnaire in field research is possible and useful in studies exploring owner personality and dog temperament. Further exploration of the relationship between owner personality and ratings of dog temperament is recommended.