Aggressive behavior in dogs is a serious problem for dog owners around the world, with bite marks posing a serious risk to both humans and other dogs. New research from the University of Bristol has examined the factors that influence how owners manage aggressive behavior in their dogs. The study found that clinical animal behaviorists should focus on helping dog owners feel confident in the effectiveness of the behavior modification techniques they recommend and, in their ability, to actually use them successfully.
Dogs are a popular pet. However, most dog owners report some aspect of their pet's behavior, or cite behavioral disorders as the main reason dogs are given away for rehoming.
The aim of the study was to find out what influences an owner's decision to use outdated punishment-based methods and what the barriers and drivers were for dog owners using positive reinforcement-based solutions. In particular, the researchers wanted to explore whether theoretical models and psychological concepts used in other contexts can help them understand this problem.
Current evidence suggests that positive reinforcement-based behavior modification techniques are both humane and effective in treating aggressive behavior in dogs and that the use of punishment-based techniques is likely to be detrimental to the dog's welfare and may lead to an increase in aggression. However, many dog owners continue to use punishment-based techniques to inhibit this problematic behavior.
The study found that owners' perceptions of how effective the behavior change techniques are and how effective they feel they can apply them are key factors predicting their current and future use.
While much attention has been paid to the consequences for the dog of using certain training techniques, this is the first study to systematically examine the factors influencing the owner's choice of training technique, as well as the impact of this behavior on the owners of these dogs.
The study identified the potential for extreme negative emotional reactions and feelings of failure experienced by owners when their dog reacts badly to another person or dog. This provides a foundation from which future research can further explore the influence of various psychological factors on an owner's decision to use positive reinforcement methods to manage their dog's aggressive behavior.
