The impact of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on dogs & dog owners in the UK - 26th August 2020 - Dogs Trust
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
The impact of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on dogs & dog owners in the UK 26th August 2020
Table of contents
Executive summary 1
Introduction 2
Dog demographics 4
Gastrointestinal health 4
Dog owners 5
Owners’ bond with their dogs 5
Owners’ feelings about their dog during lockdown 6
Contingency planning 8
Management of dogs 9
Routine changes 9
Exercise 9
Walk location 9
On/off lead walking 9
Frequency of walking 9
Duration of walking 9
Meeting other dogs 9
House rules 9
Time left alone 10
Dog behaviour 12
Behaviour towards adults 12
Behaviour towards children 13
General observations 14
Reactivity 14
Attention seeking behaviour 14
Behaviour on walks 14
Separation-related behaviour 14
Behaviour when about to be left 14
Behaviour when left 14
Enrichment, games and training 16
Toys 17
Puppies: socialisation/habituation 18
Conclusions 19
Future work 20
Appendix 21
Dogs Trust
1
Executive summary
Lifestyle changes ensued for many people across the United Kingdom Dog behaviour
(UK) in the Spring of 2020 due to ‘lockdown’ restrictions imposed to • Dogs’ behaviour towards household members was reported
curb the spread of a newly emerged virus, SARS-CoV-2, which caused by owners to have changed considerably during lockdown,
a global pandemic of the disease known as COVID-19. with large increases seen in the proportion of dogs reported to
display attention-seeking and ‘clingy’ behaviours. Compared with
More than 6,000 dog owners living in the UK completed our online February, there was an 82% increase in the proportion of owners
survey between the 4th – 12th May 2020 (the most restrictive phase of who reported that their dog whined or barked when someone
the lockdown measures). Dog owners were asked about their dogs’ was working or busy during lockdown, and a 41% increase in
management and routine and behaviour at two time points; in early/ owners reporting that their dog was being clingy and following
people around the house. With most people spending more time
mid-February 2020 (before the lockdown was imposed and prior
at home, it should be noted that these increases may be linked
to individuals being likely to have changed their behaviour due to
to the increased opportunity for dogs to display these behaviours
COVID-19), and at the time of survey completion during the lockdown. and for owners to observe these behaviours, rather than an actual
Owners also answered questions about their relationship with their change in the dogs’ behaviour towards their human household
dog, and the impact of lockdown on their bond with their dog to help members. Further detailed investigation is thus important.
us understand the population of owners who took part.
• Behaviours generally associated with fear or frustration also were
reported to have increased in dogs during lockdown but remained
Key findings include: relatively rare amongst the population as a whole. For example,
Dog-owner bond there was a 54% increase in the percentage of dogs that were
• The people who completed the survey were closely bonded to reported to hide or move away when approached by an adult,
their dogs, with almost three-quarters of dog owners (72%) but the proportion of dogs impacted by this remained below 3%
believing dogs should have the same rights and privileges as of the population.
family members. • There was a 57% increase in dogs growling, snapping or
• One-third of owners (34%) reported feeling closer to their dog nipping children when approached or handled during lockdown,
during lockdown and 97% of owners were happy to have the presumably linked with greater interactions between dogs and
company of their dog during lockdown. children due to school closures. However, the overall number of
dogs displaying these behaviours remained low, below 3% of the
• Almost two-thirds of owners (65%) indicated that they would population.
delay hospital treatment to care for their dog, if needed.
• The percentage of dogs who showed separation-related
• A quarter (26%) of owners were concerned about what would behaviour (including destructive behaviour, toileting inside the
happen to their dog should they become ill with COVID-19, and home, vocalisation) when about to be left, and when left alone,
4% of owners reported that no one was available to care for decreased significantly during lockdown, probably as dogs were
their dog (either due to a lack of availability or due to the dog’s left less often and for shorter periods.
behaviour). A further 3% owners had not yet tried to organise
someone to look after their dog but thought no one would be
available. Overall, the findings in this report describe some of the many and
varied ways in which dogs’ lives were impacted by the COVID-19
lockdown and highlight the strong bond between dog and owner, and
Dog management & routine the role this bond has played for owners during the pandemic. The
• There was an increase in how often people played with or trained findings have impacts for managing the canine welfare implications
their dogs during lockdown, particularly for owners answering, of previous, current and future COVID-19 lockdowns. At the time of
‘More than once a day’, which increased from 38% before writing this report (August 2020), local lockdowns are in place in some
lockdown to 49% during lockdown. regions of the UK, the Government’s furlough scheme is still in place
• The majority of owners (80%) reported that their dog’s routine and many people are still working from home, and redundancy rates
had changed (57% a little, 23% a lot), with only 1 in 5 owners have increased. Vet practices are not permitting owners into consulting
(20%) stating their dog’s routine had not altered compared with rooms, or offering euthanasia of dogs at the owner’s home, unless the
before lockdown. dog is too unwell to travel to the veterinary surgery. These, and other
• Dogs were less likely to be walked off-lead during lockdown and factors may impact on the health and well-being of dogs and the well-
were more likely to have just one walk per day (increasing to being of owners themselves. Of particular concern in relation to the
approximately one half of dogs, from one third before lockdown), findings of this report is the potential impact of any sudden increase in
instead of two or more walks. However, the total time spent on
the hours dogs are left alone in relation to separation-related behaviour,
walks was broadly similar with 79% of dogs walked for between
and potential delays for dog owners seeking hospital treatment if they
30 minutes and 2 hours a day.
do not have anyone available to help care for their dog(s).
• The proportion of dogs left alone for 3 or more hours at a time
decreased dramatically from 1 in 2 before lockdown to 1 in 20
during lockdown.
dogstrust.org.uk
2
Introduction
The initial lockdown phase of the COVID-19 pandemic restricted
business and leisure activities, access to services and led many people
to adopt changes in lifestyle. These changes have the potential to
impact the short- and long-term health and behaviour of dogs, as well
as the wellbeing of dog owners. This report describes data collected
from online survey completion by UK dog owners between survey
launch (4th May 2020) and 12th May 2020, (i.e. during the first ‘strict’
phase of COVID-19 lockdown within the UK, and before widespread
initial easing of lockdown restrictions).
COVID-19
A novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) linked to cases of human viral
pneumonia was first reported in Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
in December 2019, and the disease it causes was subsequently
named COVID-19 in February 2020. The World Health Organisation
(WHO) characterised COVID-19 as a pandemic on 11th March 2020,
noting the alarming levels of spread and severity of the disease.
The WHO called for countries to take urgent and aggressive
action to prevent infections. These and further details published
by the WHO around the COVID-19 timeline are available online1.
COVID-19 UK lockdown – key dates
The first case of COVID-19 transmission in the UK was confirmed on
28th February 20202. Within the UK, lockdown restrictions around the
message of ‘stay at home’ were announced by the Government on
23rd March 20203. Restrictions relating to staying at home, working
from home where possible, closure of schools, exercise restrictions and
restrictions to non-essential veterinary care were all hypothesised to
impact canine welfare. Since 13th May, some restrictions have been
eased. Key differences, statistics and dates across the four UK nations,
which are relevant to this report, are summarised in Figure 1.
Figure 1: Key dates up to the end of the first phase of COVID-19 lockdown
restrictions in the UK.
1 who.int/news-room/detail/29-06-2020-covidtimeline Accessed 2nd July 2020.
2 bfpg.co.uk/2020/04/COVID-19-timeline/ Accessed 2nd July 2020.
3 gov.uk/government/speeches/pm-address-to-the-nation-on-coronavirus-23-march-2020 Accessed 2nd July 2020
Dogs Trust
3
Potential impacts of lockdown
Lockdown restrictions around the Government message of ‘stay at
home’ were suggested to impact pet dogs within the UK, in terms of
their management, behaviour and bond with their owners. Implications
for owners were also anticipated, relating to the relationship with their
dog, anxiety around aspects of caring for the dog such as accessing
veterinary care and emotional support provided by the dog during the
COVID-19 pandemic. Examples of key areas of interest which formed
the focus of this research are listed below:
Proportion of time that dog owners spent at home:
• This increased for many owners due to working from home and/
or furlough.
• Key workers (including NHS staff) worked longer hours leading to
decreased time at home.
• The closure of schools increased dog-child interactions during
weekdays for households with children.
Exercise:
• People were initially limited to one form of outdoor exercise per
day, potentially reducing the amount of exercise that dogs were
given, particularly for single-adult households.
• Dogs may have reduced off-lead exercise and opportunities to
interact with other dogs4, potentially leading to frustration.
The study described in this report was designed to investigate
management of dogs, dog behaviour, dog health, puppy socialisation
and changes in owner sentiment during the lockdown period, as well
as touching on dog acquisition/relinquishment. Dog owners were
asked for consent to be contacted about a follow-up survey, so that
long-term effects of management during lockdown (and changes in
management during lockdown) on canine health and behaviour can
be subsequently assessed.
Whilst this nationwide strict lockdown may be a one-off event,
local lockdown restrictions have already been implemented (such as
occurred in Leicester5) and may continue for some time at varying
frequency, geography and scale. Research into the impact of these
lockdown measures on the wellbeing of dogs will allow Dogs Trust and
other stakeholders to best support dog welfare.
The study methods are detailed at the end of the report (p21).
4 For example, UK Government guidelines stated: “When walking your dog in areas used by other people, you should consider putting your dog on a
lead to ensure you can stay 2 metres away from others.” (gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-advice-for-people-with-animals)
5 bbc.co.uk/news/uk-53228067
dogstrust.org.uk
4
Dog demographics
The survey was completed for 6,004 dogs. Two-thirds of these (66%) Most of the dogs in the study were purebreds (55%; Figure 3), 28%
were the only dog in the household, and there was a 1.1:1 ratio of were crosses of two purebred dogs, with a minority of dogs reported
male to female dogs. Most dogs in the population were neutered as other/of unknown breeding (17%).
(79% of males and 82% of females). Half the dogs were 4 years of
age or younger, the minimum was 2 months and the maximum 19 Of the purebred dogs, the most common breeds were Border Collies
years (Figure 2). (12%), Labrador Retrievers (11%), Cocker Spaniels (8%), Jack Russell
Terriers (6%) and Greyhounds (5%).
Just under one-third of dogs (31%) had been sourced from Dogs Trust.
Specific breed 55
66%
(e.g. Labrador Retriever, Whippet)
Mix of two specific breeds 28
(e.g. Labradoodle, Puggle)
Other or unknown 17
Only dog in 0 20 40 60
household Percent
22%
Live with one
Figure 3: Breed characteristics of participating dogs
The vast majority of dogs (93%) had been living in the household
other dog
since before the end of January 2020, with 267 dogs (5%) acquired
during February or March but before the official lockdown and 59
dogs (1%) had been acquired during the lockdown period after March
23rd. Twenty-six owners answered ‘Prefer not to say’ for when they
acquired their dog.
19y
18y
17y
59
16y
15y
14y
13y Dogs (1%)
12y were acquired
11y during lockdown
10y
Age
9y
8y
7y
6y
5y
Gastrointestinal health
4y Gastrointestinal health can be an indicator of dietary change,
3y infectious disease or stress. As an overview of gastro-intestinal health,
2y owners were asked about any vomiting, and digestive problems (loose
1y or watery stools) noticed in their dog in February 2020 and in the past
7−12m 7 days of lockdown. An 18% increase in vomiting at least once in the
Puppy past 7 days during lockdown (impacting 15% of dogs) was found as
250 0 250 compared to an average week in February (when just under 13% of
Frequency dogs were said to vomit at least weekly). There were no discernible
changes in the number of dogs with digestive problems, with 83-84%
Female Male of owners answering that their dog had no such problems both in
February 2020 and during the last 7 days of lockdown, and 15-16% of
Figure 2: Age distribution of participating female and male dogs owners saying their dog had digestive problems at least once a week
at each timepoint.
Dogs Trust
5 Dog owners Owners’ bond with their dogs Very few people reported that they were considering giving up their Survey respondents reported having a strong attachment to their dog, dog;
6
Owners’ feelings about their dog during lockdown More than 9 out of 10 of our survey respondents (92%) reported that
Overall, 99% of owners indicated that they felt as close or closer to they were happy to be able to go for walks with their dog. Many owners
their dog during lockdown (65% felt as close and 34% closer). The described enjoying long or longer walks with their dog(s) and some
vast majority of respondents (97%) reported that they were happy to were able to have more walks. Some owners noted that their increased
have the company of their dog during lockdown, and more than half ability to walk their dog (more frequently or for longer periods) was
(56%) reported that they were more relaxed when they were with due to being able to work from home or not working. Owners also
their dog. mentioned being able to enjoy walks more ‘without feeling like it’s
a chore’ or not being ‘in a rush to get to work’. Generally, owners
seemed to have more flexibility and fewer time constraints. Some
owners discussed how walks became shared family experiences and
a motivation for children to go for a walk. For many, having a dog
provided owners with a reason or excuse to physically get out of their
house. Some felt less judged for being out with a dog or received
‘less suspicious looks’ when they had a dog with them. A few owners
mentioned that walks were longer as they now only had one walk a
day rather than their normal two or more, due to lockdown restrictions.
Some owners were happy that it was easier to avoid other dogs (17%)
and people (10%) while out with their dog, particularly those that
described their dogs as having pre-existing behaviour problem, such
as being reactive.
In contrast, others felt unease because their walking areas had
become busier; this was especially concerning for owners of dogs
with pre-existing behavioural issues who found it more difficult or
stressful to walk their dog during lockdown. Travel restrictions and a
lack of suitable local walks also contributed to less pleasant walking
experiences for some owners.
A few owners (6%) were worried about having to leave the house
to walk their dog and around a quarter of owners were worried that
their dog was not getting enough exercise (22%). Other owners noted
that they enjoyed seeing people during their dog walk. For some, this
was stated as being the only time they saw other people and they
enjoyed meeting other dog owners (while socially distancing). Around
a quarter of owners indicated that they were concerned that their dogs
As well as the information obtained from specific survey questions, were not able to meet other dogs (26%) or people (29%) outside the
owners were able to use free text boxes to describe their experiences house. Furthermore, lack of socialisation for their dog was a significant
(both positive and negative) of having a dog during lockdown. concern for some owners, particularly those with puppies and those
Examination of free text data revealed some owners describing how with dogs who already had issues around other dogs and were unable
important their dog was for their physical and mental wellbeing, to continue developing their social skills by interacting with friendly
expressing the ‘support’ their dogs offered them, using terms such dogs. Reduced socialisation opportunities with other dogs and people
as ‘relaxation’, ‘relief’, ‘stability’ and ‘keeping me sane’. Many owners were the most common concerns, although a number of owners also
also reported that their dogs helped them to maintain a routine and mentioned difficulties in providing their puppy with experiences such
some sense of ‘normality’, and that their dogs gave them a purpose as car travel and traffic. A set of questions relating specifically to puppy
and ‘reason to get out of bed’ or motivated them to ‘get up and socialisation was included within the survey and responses to these
about’. Many owners mentioned how their dogs improved their mood, questions are summarised elsewhere in this report (p18).
describing their dogs as ‘funny’ and ‘entertaining’ and discussed how
they made them ‘laugh’ or ‘smile’. Some owners who were now Some owners reported that walks had become less enjoyable due to the
working from home, mentioned that their dogs helped them to stop behaviour of other dog walkers and expressed frustration with other
working and get outside. dog walkers who they believed had only started walking their dogs
during the lockdown. They believed that the ‘fair weather’ walkers and
‘new faces’ made their walks less pleasant. Particularly worrying was
9 out other owners not keeping their dogs on a lead, with numerous reports
of respondents witnessing owners having to break social distancing
of 10 rules in order to retrieve their dog. An increased amount of dog fouling
was also noted.
people happy to be
able to go out for
walks with
their dog
Dogs Trust7
Over half of respondents (57%) were happy that they did not need Questions related to specific aspects of behaviour displayed by dogs
to leave their dog alone, and a third (33%) enjoyed having time to do were included within the survey and are summarised on p12-15 of
extra training, with almost one quarter (24%) happy with the progress this report.
made with training. However, some owners were concerned that their
dog did not have enough to do in the house (15%), that they were With many respondents spending all their time during lockdown at
missing training classes (12%) or that things were ‘going wrong’ with home, a major concern reported by owners was how their dog would
their dog’s training (5%). More than 1 in 20 owners (7%) reported adjust when lockdown measures were eased, and household members
that they were worried about changes in their dog’s behaviour, as return to work and school. Many specifically cited concerns about the
exampled in the quotes highlighted below. potential development of separation anxiety. Only a very small minority
reported as free text that they were enforcing ‘alone time’ for their dog
in preparation for a return to ‘normal’.
“Since I’ve been home, he has Dog owners also had worries about the care of their dogs, including
been playing up when being access to veterinary care, should their dog need it (33%). Owners
of older dogs or dogs with pre-existing or terminal conditions were
called in from the garden, he particularly concerned. Some concerns were linked to the owner’s
just doesn’t listen, every time I shielding/vulnerable status and negotiating the practicalities of
accessing veterinary care, as well as worries about not being able to
let him out I have to go up the accompany their dog into the veterinary practice. The inability to keep
up-to-date with vaccinations whilst veterinarians were not able to
garden to get him in, he used offer non-emergency care was also a concern. Other worries noted
to be really good at recall.” by owners included accessing enough food for their dog (11%),
while relatively few owners reported being worried about the cost of
keeping their dog (2%). Some owners had a general concern for the
welfare of other dogs. Most of these concerns were associated with a
“She was due to be spayed, risk of dog abandonment, either when people return to work and no
but this was postponed due longer have the time to care for ‘iso-pups’ (puppies or dogs acquired
during lockdown), or during the pandemic as owners face financial
to covid so she went through difficulties, become unwell or have fears about their dogs transmitting
her first heat cycle. She started the virus. Some were also worried about how ‘iso-pups’ will affect
the landscape of dog walking in the future, given the reduced
humping one of her beds. Now opportunities for socialisation during lockdown. Several respondents
noted concerns for dogs who may be at greater risk of cruelty and
she does this every evening neglect during lockdown.
after eating her dinner. She
has also bitten the corner of
the couch, but this is when
she hears something outside
and gets agitated, and this is
happening less often now.”
dogstrust.org.uk8
Contingency planning
One-quarter (26%) of owners were concerned about what would A quarter of respondents thought someone outside their house could
happen to their dog should something happen to them (i.e. the probably help to walk (25%) and care for (26%) their dog but were
owner) (Figure 5). This was reinforced by the free text responses, where yet to organise this.
owners described their concerns about getting ill with COVID-19 and
being unable to care for their dog. Many respondents reported that However, some people believed no one was available to help walk
they could rely on someone else in their house to walk (36%) or care or care for their dogs. For some, their dog’s behaviour meant they
for (40%) their dog, should this become necessary. However, others believed others would find it difficult to walk (4%) or care for their dog
had organised people outside their house to walk (17%) and care for (1%), while 6% and 3%, respectively, felt that no one was available.
(20%) their dogs, should it be needed, and 9% and 7% of respondents, Some other people believed it was unlikely that anyone was available
respectively, had already had someone help in these ways. to walk (4%) or care for (3%) their dog but had not tried to arrange
anything yet. In total, 13% of owners felt no-one was available or able
Yes − someone else has done so to walk their dog if needed, and 7% felt no-one was available or able
already
Yes − I have organised someone, in
to look after their dog’s other care if needed.
case this is needed
Someone else in the house can do
this
Probably not − but I have not
tried to organise this yet
Probably − but I have not
organised this yet
No − no one is available
No − [my dogs]'s behaviour means
this is difficult
N/A − [my dog] is too old/unwell
to need daily walks
0 10 20 30 40
Percent
Walk Care
Figure 5: Contingency planning for walking and care of dogs during
lockdown, should the need arise.
Dogs Trust9
Management of dogs
Routine changes On/off lead walking
Compared with pre-lockdown, 1 in 5 owners (20%) stated that their During lockdown, owners were more likely to walk their dogs on a
dog’s routine had not altered at all, whereas the majority of owners short lead or on a long/flexi-lead and less likely to walk their dogs off
thought that their dog’s routine had changed a little (57%) or a lot lead (not to heel).
(23%).
February: Lockdown:
Exercise
Choice of walk location Walked off lead Walked off lead
The choice of walk location based on the likelihood of meeting other (not to heel): (not to heel):
dogs (and therefore people) differed markedly between February and
during lockdown. Although just over half of owners (57%) chose their
43% 32%
walk location based on reasons other than the likelihood of meeting
other dogs, other owners were more likely to avoid walking in places Walked long lead: Walked long lead:
where there were likely to be other dogs during lockdown (Figure 6).
28% 32%
Go to places with other dogs to allow [my
dog] to play
Choose the walk based on reasons other than
the likelihood of meeting other dogs
Walked short lead: Walked short lead:
Avoid walking in places where there were
likely to be other dogs
0 20 40 60
20% 25%
Percent
Before lockdown During lockdown
Frequency of walking
Figure 6: Criteria used to select dog walking locations before and during During lockdown half of the dogs in the study (50%) were walked
lockdown. once a day, 36% were walked twice a day and 12% were walked
three or more times a day. Compared to February, these data show
Area that there was a distinct reduction in the number of dogs walked 2-4
The area where dogs were usually walked during lockdown tended to times a day, and a corresponding increase in dogs walked once a day
be less likely to be rural and had a greater tendency for other dogs to or not at all (see Figure 8, below). However, the increase in dogs not
be walked on lead, when compared with February (Figure 7). walked at all still only impacted a small percentage of the population
with 3% not being walked during the last 7 days, compared with just
Other dogs, mostly off the lead *
1% in February.
Rural, out in the countryside *
Quiet, with few people about * Not walked
Urban, with lots of houses 1 per day
Village or suburban, with some houses and
some open space 2 per day
Busy, with lots of people about
3 per day
No dogs, or very rarely any dogs *
4+ per day
Other dogs, but almost always on leads *
0 10 20 30 40 50
Percent
N/A − not walked during this time *
0 20 40 Before lockdown During lockdown
Percent
Before lockdown During lockdown
Figure 8: Frequency of dog walks before and during lockdown
Figure 7: Characteristics of areas dogs were walked in before and during
lockdown. Respondents could select more than one option. *indicates that
the difference was statistically significant (McNemar’s Chi Square test).
Areas are ranked according to relative change between time points, with
those at the top having the greatest decrease during lockdown and those
at the bottom the greatest relative increase during lockdown.
dogstrust.org.uk10
Duration of walking The number of non-household dogs that owners’ dogs had ‘met’ (been
Despite a reduction in the number of walks for many dogs, the total in the same room, or within 2 metres if outside) in an average day
time spent on daily walks was broadly similar when compared to walk decreased markedly. In February, 9% of dogs met no non-household
time reported for February, with most dogs (79%) being walked for dogs in an average day, which increased to 26% of dogs in an average
between 30 minutes and 2 hours (Figure 9). day during the previous 7 days of lockdown (Figure 11). Compared to
February, the majority of dogs spent currently much less (43%) or a
Not walked
little less (16%) time socialising with dogs from outside the household.11
Time left alone (without human company) In February, 48% of dogs were left for three or more hours at a time,
As anticipated, the extent to which dogs were left alone greatly whereas during lockdown only 5% of dogs were left alone for this
decreased (Figure 12). The percentage of dogs that were not left length of time (Figure 13).
at home (for at least 5 minutes) on any day during a weekly period
increased substantially from 15% (before lockdown) to 58% (during February: Lockdown:
lockdown).
Not left alone Not left alone
Not at all (for more than 5 mins) (for more than 5 mins)
1 day during a week: during a week:
2 days
3 days 15% 58%
4 days
5 days
6 days Not at all
7 days Less than 5 minutes
0 20 40 60
Percent 5−19 minutes
Before lockdown During lockdown 20−59 minutes
1 or more hours but
less than 3 hours
3 or more hours but
Figure 12: Number of days per week that dogs were left alone before and less than 6 hours
during lockdown 6 or more hours
0 10 20 30 40 50
Percent
Before lockdown During lockdown
Figure 13: Longest periods that dogs were left alone without human
company before and during lockdown
dogstrust.org.uk12
Dog behaviour
Behaviour towards adults
Overall, dog owners reported significant increases in the prevalence
Owners reported:
of behaviours directed towards adults in the household, which can be
perceived as undesirable, from before to during lockdown. In addition,
An 82% increase in dogs
during lockdown fewer dogs were reported to show ‘none’ of the listed whining or barking when
behaviours. Behaviour directed towards adult household members
that increased the most during the lockdown period were those
someone was working or busy
associated with attention-seeking, such as vocalising or jumping up
when someone was busy, ‘clingy’ following behaviour and vocalising
when shut away from people. As shown in Figure 14, these behaviours A 54% increase in hiding or
were also commonly seen in the population before lockdown.
moving away when approached
Other behaviour, less common prior to lockdown, were also reported
to increase during lockdown. These behaviours are generally
associated with emotional states of fear or frustration and include And a 41% increase in
hiding/retreating when approached; grabbing at sleeves/trouser legs;
snapping or nipping during play; and barking, growling, snapping or
being ‘clingy’
nipping when approached or handled. However, these behaviours
remained relatively rare amongst the population as a whole, as shown
in Figure 14.
Whined or barked when someone
was working or busy *
Hidden or moved away when
approached *
Been very clingy or followed
around the house *
Jumped up when someone was
working or busy *
Whined or barked if shut behind
a door or stairgate *
Grabbed hold of sleeves or
trouser legs not during play *
Snapped or nipped during play *
Pulled away, cowered or
trembled when handled
Growled, snapped or nipped when
approached or handled
Grabbed hold of sleeves or
trouser legs during play *
Barked when approached or
handled
Jumped up during a game or when
excited *
Growled, snapped or nipped
around food (human or own)
Stolen items belonging to
members of the household
Bitten someone
0 10 20 30 40 50
Before lockdown During lockdown
Figure 14: Percentage of owners who answered ‘Yes’ their dog displayed the described behaviour towards adults before lockdown (in February) and in the past 7
days during lockdown. 30% and 28% of respondents reported ‘None of the above’ applied to their dog before and during lockdown, respectively; this difference
was significant (p13
Behaviour towards children
Dog owners reported a greater relative increase of problem behaviours All behaviours towards children were reported to increase during
towards children during lockdown, compared to before lockdown, than lockdown. However, the sample size of dogs living with children was
they did for behaviour towards adults (Figure 15). Three behaviours smaller and not all of these changes were considered statistically
showed a large, statistically significant increase in prevalence (see text significant*.
right), and two of these were associated with attention seeking or
separation related behaviour. Growling, snapping or nipping at children
when approached or handled was reported to increase by 57%, which Owners reported:
is a concern. However, it must be noted that the overall proportion of
dogs displaying these behaviours amongst the population remained very
A 53% increase in vocalising
low, despite the large relative increase when compared to pre-lockdown when a child was busy
levels. It should also be noted that the increase in prevalence of these
behaviour might be related, at least in part, to the increased time that
children were spending in the home (due to school closures), rather than
as a result in a change in the behaviour of the dogs. Further investigation
A 57% increase in growling,
of this finding should be conducted before conclusions are drawn from snapping or nipping children
the results reported here.
when approached or handled
As with behaviour towards adults, dogs also showed a large relative
increase in behaviours often associated with attention seeking and
excitement, with owners reporting a 46% increase in ‘clingy’ behaviour And a 46% increase in dogs acting
towards children in the household and a 53% increase in vocalising
when the child/children were busy. ‘clingy’ and following children
Barked when approached or
handled
Growled, snapped or nipped when
approached or handled *
Whined or barked when someone
was working or busy *
Pulled away, cowered or
trembled when handled
Growled, snapped or nipped
around food (human or own)
Been very clingy or followed
around the house *
Snapped or nipped during play *
Jumped up when someone was
working or busy *
Whined or barked if shut behind
a door or stairgate *
Hidden or moved away when
approached
Grabbed hold of sleeves or
trouser legs during play
Stolen items belonging to
members of the household
Jumped up during a game or when
excited *
Grabbed hold of sleeves or
trouser legs not during play
Bitten someone
0 10 20 30 40 50
Before lockdown During lockdown
Figure 15: Percentage of dogs that live with children (830 dogs) whose owners answered ‘Yes’ their dog displayed the described behaviour towards the child/
children pre-lockdown (in February) and in the past 7 days during lockdown. 61% and 60% of respondents reported ‘None of the above’ applied to their dog
before and during lockdown, respectively; this difference was not significant. *indicates that the difference was statistically significant (McNemar’s Chi Square
test). Behaviours are ranked according to relative change between time points, with those at the top having the greatest increase during lockdown.
dogstrust.org.uk14
General observations Behaviour on walks
Owners were more likely to describe their dogs as ‘relaxed and settled Owners reported a significant decrease in interest towards other people
for most of the day’ during lockdown, and less likely to describe them or dogs when walked during lockdown as compared to February
as ‘restless or agitated intermittently during the day’, as compared to (Figure 18). This could be due to dogs receiving extra social stimulation
before lockdown. in the home, fewer people and/or dogs encountered on walks, or due
to both people and dogs being further away during walks due to social
Reactivity distancing requirements.
Owners were asked to select under which contexts their dogs
were ‘reactive (e.g. barking, running about)’. Reactivity to everyday Show interest when passing people on walks *
occurrences outside (such as a postal worker coming or other dogs Show interest when passing other dogs on
walks *
barking) was high, reported by over 95% of owners before and during
Pull towards people on walks *
lockdown (Figure 16). Overall, less than 1% of owners reported that
their dog was not reactive to any of the situations listed. During Pull towards other dogs on walks *
lockdown, all forms of reactivity were reported to show a small but None of the above *
statistically significant increase, with the exception of reacting to family
N/A − not walked during this time *
members being excited or noisy, which did not significantly change.
0 20 40 60
Percent
He/she sees things outside (e.g. people
walking past, birds in the garden) * Before lockdown During lockdown
There are unusual or loud noises (e.g.
thunder, gunshots) *
He/she hears normal things outside (e.g. Figure 18: Interest shown by dogs toward other dogs and people while
the postman coming, other dogs barking) *
on walks before and during lockdown. *indicates that the difference was
Family members are excited or noisy statistically significant. Behaviours are ranked according to relative change
0 25 50 75 100 between time points, with those at the top having the greatest decrease
Percent
during lockdown and those at the bottom the greatest relative increase
Before lockdown During lockdown during lockdown.
Figure 16: Reactive behaviours displayed by dogs before and during Separation-related behaviour
lockdown. In addition, 0.9% and 0.8% of respondents reported ‘None of The percentage of dogs who were reported to have shown specific
the above’ applied to their dog before and during lockdown, respectively; behaviours that could be indicative of separation-related behaviour when
this difference was not significant. *indicates that the difference was about to be left decreased significantly during lockdown (Figure 19).
statistically significant. Behaviours are ranked according to relative change
Scratched / damaged furniture *
between time points, with those at the top having the greatest increase
Scratched / damaged around the door,
during lockdown. skirting boards, windows or entrance to the
house *
Urinated and/or defecated inside the home *
Attention seeking behaviour
Chewed or destroyed non−food items other
When asked a specific question on how frequently their dogs sought than toys *
attention, there was a 20% increase in owners answering ‘frequently’ Vocalised (barked / howled / pined /
whined / cried) *
(from 39% to 47%), with a corresponding decrease in answers of
Paced around, or turned in circles or chased
‘occasionally’ and ‘rarely’ (Figure 17). his/her tail *
0 5 10 15
Percent
“I do think [dog name] has become Before lockdown During lockdown
more ‘needy’ during lockdown. But Figure 19: Separation-related behaviours displayed during periods when
dogs were about to be left alone, before and during lockdown. *indicates
that may be my imagination because that the difference was statistically significant. Behaviours are ranked
we’re all craving a little space.” according to relative change between time points, with those at the top
having the greatest relative decrease during lockdown.
Rarely wants me to give him/her attention
Occasionally wants me to give him/her
attention
Frequently wants me to give him/her
attention
0 20 40
Pecent
Before lockdown During lockdown
Figure 17: Percentage of dogs who sought attention from owners before
and during lockdown.
Dogs Trust15
Similarly, fewer owners reported behaviours that could be indicative of
separation-related behaviour during lockdown when dogs were alone
“The percentage of dogs
(Figure 20). who showed separation-related
Scratched / damaged furniture *
behaviour in anticipation of
Chewed or destroyed non−food items other
than toys *
being left decreased significantly
Urinated and/or defecated inside the home * during lockdown, probably as
Scratched / damaged around the door,
skirting boards, windows or entrance to the
house *
dogs were left less often and for
Vocalised (barked / howled / pined /
whined / cried) * shorter periods by owners.”
Paced around, or turned in circles or chased
his/her tail *
0 5 10 15
Percent
Before lockdown During lockdown
Figure 20: Separation-related behaviours displayed during periods when
dogs were alone before and during lockdown. *indicates that the difference
was statistically significant (McNemar’s Chi Square test). Behaviours are
ranked according to relative change between time points, with those at
the top having the greatest relative decrease during lockdown.
These findings may be related to dogs being left alone less often and
for shorter periods, and hence showing less anxiety before and during
periods left alone.
dogstrust.org.uk16
Enrichment, games and training
There was an increase in the frequency with which people reported When asked what games (with people) or training the dog had
that they, or someone in their household, had played with or done participated in, some activities decreased during lockdown (agility
some training with their dog during lockdown (Figure 21). This was training; obedience training; tug of war games; fetch or retrieve
particularly evident for the category ‘more than once a day’, which games; wrestling / rough and tumble type games) and others increased
increased from 38% before lockdown to 48% during lockdown. (chasing games, trick training, searching or ‘find it’ games, scent work)
(Figure 22). However, most changes were small: the largest changes
More than once a day relative to pre-lockdown levels were the percentage of dogs taking
part in agility training, which fell by 25%, and in owners doing scent
Once a day
work with their dogs which increased by 6% during lockdown.
5−6 times
3−4 times Agility training *
Obedience training (e.g. sit/
Once or twice
stay/walking to heel) *
Less than once a week Tug−of−war or ragger *
None Wrestling/rough and tumble
games
0 10 20 30 40
Fetch or retrieve
Percent
Chasing games (person chases
Before lockdown During lockdown [dog] or [dog] chases the
person
Searching or find−it games *
Figure 21: Frequency with which owners reported that they, or someone Training to do tricks *
in their household, had played with or trained their dog, before and Scent work (asking [dog] to
find things using his/her
during lockdown. nose) *
0 20 40 60
Percent
Before lockdown During lockdown
Figure 22: Enrichment, games and training undertaken before and
during lockdown. *indicates that the difference was statistically significant
(McNemar’s Chi Square test). Activities are ranked according to relative
change between time points, with those at the top having the greatest
decrease during lockdown and those at the bottom the greatest relative
increase during lockdown.
Dogs Trust17
Toys
Although more than half of owners gave their dogs toys to play with
more than once a day before and during lockdown, this behaviour
was significantly more common during lockdown (Chi Square test
for trend, p=0.03) (Figure 23). Approximately 6% of the population
weren’t given a toy to play with in either an average week before
lockdown or in the 7-days during lockdown.
More than once a day
Once a day
5−6 times/week
3−4 times/week
Once or twice a week
Less than once a week
Not given a toy
0 20 40
Percent
Before lockdown During lockdown
Figure 23: Frequency that owners gave their dogs toys to play with, before
and during lockdown
dogstrust.org.uk18
Puppies: socialisation/habituation
176 owners responded that their dog was a puppy, 6 months of age
or younger. We asked these owners about their puppies’ experiences
during the previous 7-days of lockdown.
90% of puppies had been outside in public on the ground and 16%
had been outside in people’s arms during the previous 7 days of
lockdown (Figure 24). During the same time period, more than one
quarter of puppies had not met/heard the postman/woman, and only
32% of puppies had encountered livestock. Approximately one quarter
of puppies (28%) had not been in a moving car. Many puppies (61%)
had heard loud noises (such as bangs or fireworks), but one quarter
had not (and 12% of owners reported that they were not sure). Most
puppies (83%) had been near light traffic, but only 42% had been
near heavy traffic and the majority of puppies had encountered a
person riding a bicycle (79%) or jogging (79%). However, presumably
due to lockdown restrictions, only 4% of puppies had visited a house
other than the one they lived in, only one-third of puppies had met
someone who came to the door, and only 14% met someone who
came into their house. One experience that is likely to be a relatively
new phenomenon is that 42% of puppies had seen someone with
their face covered, or partially covered.
Having a lead put on 5% 0% 95%
Being out in public on the ground 10% 0% 90%
Being near light traffic (e.g. cars passing,
18% 0% 82%
quiet road), except when inside a vehicle
Having a collar put on 19% 0% 81%
Encountering a person riding a bicycle 19% 2% 79%
Encountering a person out jogging 19% 2% 79%
Travelling in a moving car or other vehicle 28% 0% 72%
Meeting/hearing the postman/woman 24% 5% 71%
Having a harness put on 30% 0% 70%
Being put in a stationary car or other vehicle 31% 0% 69%
Hearing loud noises (e.g. bangs, fireworks etc.) 26% 12% 61%
Encountering a person in a
31% 16% 53%
high−visibility/fluorescent jacket or backpack
Seeing someone with their face covered/partially
42% 16% 42%
covered (e.g. motorcycle helmet or surgical mask)
Being near heavy traffic (e.g. trucks passing,
51% 7% 42%
busy road), except when inside a vehicle
Meeting someone who came to the door 66% 0% 34%
Encountering livestock 68% 0% 32%
Being out in public in my arms 84% 0% 16%
Meeting someone who came into the house 86% 0% 14%
Visiting other houses than the one he/she lives
96% 0% 4%
in
100 50 0 50 100
Percentage
No Unsure Yes
Figure 24: Experiences of puppies during lockdown. The percentages to the left and right of the figure indicate the combined percent of respondents that
indicated their puppy definitely did or did not encounter each experience, respectively. The percent undecided is given along the centre line.
Dogs Trust19
Conclusions
Overall, the findings in this report describe some of the many and varied despite the large relative increase when compared to pre-lockdown
ways in which dogs’ lives have been impacted by the initial UK COVID-19 levels. Given the increase in time household members spent with their
lockdown (23rd March-12th May 2020) and highlights the strong bond dogs during lockdown, it is possible this increase in observed behaviour
between dog and owner, and the role this bond has played for owners was due to more opportunities to observe/interact with the dog.
during the pandemic. The findings can be used to inform strategies to Alternatively, it is possible that for some dogs, the extended presence
manage the welfare implications of COVID-19 lockdowns for dogs, of their human household, combined perhaps with the reduced number
as well as for the health and well-being of dog owners themselves. of trips outside of the household, led to increased frustration or stress.
COVID-19 lockdowns are currently on-going at a local level (August Either way, it is reassuring that these behaviours remained low within
2020), and could continue over the coming months as efforts are made the overall population.
to reduce transmission of the virus.
Some additional findings of relevance to the continuing pandemic
Lockdown restrictions led to changes in routine and management for emerged from the questions around the dog-human bond. One of the
most dogs across the UK whose owners took part in this survey. This emerging themes across all such questions was the value dog owners
typically manifested itself in household members (adults and children) placed on their dog’s companionship during lockdown, with many
spending much more time at home, with dogs very suddenly not left owners enjoying their time spent walking their dogs. One in three dog
alone anymore, or left for much shorter periods than usual. Many dogs owners reported feeling closer to their dogs during lockdown, and
were walked less frequently than usual, with 1 in 2 dogs walked just almost all were happy to have their dog’s company at this time. More
once a day and a small proportion of dogs not walked at all. The type of than half of owners felt they were more relaxed when in their dog’s
exercise dogs received also differed, with dogs less likely to be walked off company, and many mentioned how their dog improved their mood. A
lead and less likely to be taken to places where they would be allowed to small proportion of dog owners felt unease about walking their dogs,
play with other dogs, as owners tended to avoid walking in places where as walks had become busier, particularly for owners of dogs with pre-
there would be other dogs and people. existing behavioural issues. Many owners were concerned about the
reduced opportunities to socialise their dogs, and some puppy owners
Approximately 6% of dogs weren’t given toys to play with both before expressed difficulties in habituating their dogs around car travel and
and during lockdown, but the percentage of dogs who were given toys traffic. One in twenty owners were worried about changes in their dog’s
to play with multiple times a day increased slightly during lockdown. behaviour, and many cited concerns about the potential development
This may be an artefact of owners being home with their dogs more, so of separation-anxiety. One in three dog owners were concerned about
having more opportunity to play with their dogs, but the change was access to veterinary care should their dog need it, particularly if their dog
small. There were small increases in the number of owners who played was elderly or had pre-existing conditions.
searching or ‘find-it’ games with their dogs during lockdown, as well as
doing scent-work with their dogs, but other aspects of play and training Of relevance to human healthcare was the finding that almost two-
(such as agility work, basic obedience training, ‘tug-of-war’ play and thirds of owners indicated that they would delay hospital treatment to
fetch) generally decreased slightly during lockdown. However, there was care for their dog, if needed. Potentially exacerbating this issue was the
an increase in how often people reported they played with or trained finding that 13% and 7% of dog owners, respectively, indicated that
their dogs during lockdown, particularly for owners answering, ‘More no-one was available (or able) to help walk or look after their dog’s
than once a day’, which increased from 38% before lockdown to 48% other needs if required. In some cases, this was because the dog had
during lockdown. behaviour issues that meant they couldn’t easily be walked or cared for
by other people.
Dog owners reported a number of changes in their dog’s behaviour
during the lockdown period. Unsurprisingly perhaps, with dogs not left Although the nationwide lockdown of Spring 2020 was (hopefully) a
alone as much or for as long, the number of dogs reported to exhibit one-time event, the findings described in this report have impacts for
separation-related behaviour decreased dramatically during lockdown. managing the canine welfare implications of future lockdowns, many of
Other large-scale changes included owners being much more likely to which are currently (August 2020) on-going at local or regional levels, as
describe their dogs as ‘clingy’ during lockdown, and large increases in well as for the health and well-being of dog owners themselves. Of most
owners reporting their dogs showing attention-seeking behaviour and concern moving forwards is the impact that any sudden increase in the
increased vocalisation (whining or barking) when household members number of hours dogs are left alone may have in relation to separation-
were busy. These changes are thought to be linked to the increased related behaviour. For dog owners, there is the worry of potential delay
amount of time people were spending at home. in seeking hospital treatment for COVID-19 if no-one is available or able
to help care for their dog(s). Another aspect of concern in relation to the
Owners also reported small increases in behaviours commonly considered lockdown period is the future behaviour of puppies purchased during
as problematic, such as jumping up on people when excited, snapping or lockdown, who will not have had the opportunities they usually would
nipping during play and growling, snapping or nipping when handled by for appropriate socialisation and habituation. The long-term impacts of
children. Dogs were also reported to be significantly more likely to hide lockdown on canine behaviour and welfare will be investigated in follow-
or move away when approached during lockdown than in February. up surveys completed over time, and using the data collected here to
However, it must be noted that the overall number of dogs displaying help understand the role that owner management and experiences of
these behaviours amongst the study population remained very low, dogs has had during this time.
dogstrust.org.uk20
Future work
A more in depth analysis of data summarised within this report will
be conducted, and additional Phase 2 data (collected as lockdown
restrictions were variably changed in the UK nations, between 13th
May and 3rd July 2020) will be analysed and reported, together with
results from follow-up surveys of respondents to investigate long-term
changes stemming from the COVID-19 lockdown.
Dogs Trust21
Appendix
Methods Recruitment
A cross-sectional study design was used to investigate factors The survey URL was live from 4th May 2020 and advertising of the survey
related to dog ownership during the UK lockdown phase of the commenced on 5th May 2020. The survey was advertised through social
COVID-19 pandemic. media including paid Facebook advertisements, a Dogs Trust e-newsletter,
New Scientist magazine, and emails to dog owners participating in the
Generation Pup study (generationpup.ac.uk) or the Dogs Trust Post
Data collection Adoption study. Participants in a previous survey administered by the
Data were collected by a self-administered online survey created Dogs Trust research team who had consented to be contacted about
using SmartSurveyTM software. The survey was piloted and refined as further research opportunities were also invited to participate.
necessary before the final version was created.6 Questions included
dog and owner demographic information, owner reports of dog Data presented here were collected between 4th and 12th May 2020,
behaviour, management/environment of the dog and household data after which Government guidelines around exercise limitations began
relating to household composition. Many questions required owners to be relaxed across the four nations of the UK.
to describe the dog’s behaviour/management during the last seven
days (i.e. during the first phase of lockdown), and also during early/
mid-February 2020 (i.e. before social distancing measures had been Data analysis
introduced/before owners started changing behaviour prior to official Descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage) are reported, together
lockdown). The majority of questions were optional. with the percentage change in frequency (where applicable) for
data reported for both pre-lockdown (early/mid-February 2020) and
Most questions required respondents to select one or more pre-defined lockdown (‘the last seven days’) periods. Most questions were optional,
responses, sometimes with the option to add in free text ‘other’ and percentages presented are based on available responses. The
responses if required. The survey was estimated to take approximately McNemar’s Chi square test was used to assess changes between data
25 minutes to complete. reported before and during lockdown, with statistical significance set
at P22
This report was prepared by the Dogs Trust Research Team
Contacts
For enquires related to the research conducted for this study: research@dogstrust.org.uk
For press related enquiries: pressoffice@dogstrust.org.uk
Dogs TrustYou can also read
