Introduction: There is a range of equipment used on dogs, including harnesses, halters and collars. While the impact on the dog of this equipment depends on how it is used, some types are intrinsically more aversive than others. This study aimed to examine the impact of demographic factors (e.g. age, gender) and owner perceptions on dominance and dog behaviour on the type of equipment they used.
Methodology: An online survey using SurveyMonkey® was used to survey Australian dog owners. Questions were based on owner demographics, dog demographics, equipment use, and dog behaviour/training. A group of questions were related to attitudes towards dominance and behaviour in dogs (n=13). Principle component analysis (PCA) was used to determine factors for these 13 questions, and multiple regression and generalised linear regression used to assess factors related to equipment used. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Aversive equipment was classified as choke chains, prong collars, electric shock collars and non-aversive equipment as front and back attach harness, head halter/collar, flat collar and martingale slip collar.
Main Results: A total of 864 completed surveys were analysed with 796 females (92%) and 68 males (8%). A total of 87% (749/864) did not use aversive equipment and 13% (115/864) did use it. PCA resulted in three components: dog dominance (n=5; e.g. ‘It does not matter what I do, my dog will always try to be dominant’), affectionate relationship (n=3; e.g. ‘I love cuddles with my dog on my lap.’) and enjoyment of games (n=3; I love playing tug-of-war with my dog.’). There was no association between owner demographic factors and type of equipment used. Affectionate relationship scores were significantly lower for people using aversive equipment versus those who did not. Higher agreement on needing to be dominant in dog training was negatively associated with enjoyment of games with the dog. Younger people were more likely to believe in the need to be dominant.
Principal Conclusions and Implications for Field: This study demonstrates links between owner attitudes and the type of equipment used on their dog. Further understanding of why people use aversive equipment may help in educating people on lower stress handling and training methods to improve the welfare of pet dogs.