RVC launches national survey to explore life with dogs
The Royal Veterinary College (RVC), in collaboration with Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, has launched a new nationwide survey to understand how dog behaviour affects the lives of owners and their families. The Living with Dogs survey aims to explore both the rewards and challenges of sharing a home with a dog and to identify how professionals can better support owners across the UK.
With more than 10 million dogs living in around a third of UK households, the bond between people and their pets plays a significant role in daily life. While dogs often bring joy and companionship, behavioural issues can sometimes lead to stress or strain. The RVC hopes the research will help veterinarians, behaviourists and welfare organisations provide more effective guidance and support.
The survey, led by the RVC’s Companion Animal Research and Engagement (CARE) Collaboratory and VetCompass Programme, invites all adult UK dog owners with dogs aged 12 months or over to take part. The questionnaire takes around 30 minutes to complete, with an optional short follow-up section. Parents can also involve children aged 8–17, allowing the study to capture the experiences of younger family members living with dogs.
Dr Rowena Packer, Senior Lecturer in Companion Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science at the RVC, said, “Living with dogs can be immensely rewarding, but also emotionally and physically demanding, particularly when they behave in ways we find challenging.
“We want to better understand these experiences by learning from dog owners across the UK, whether they consider their dog to show problematic behaviour or not. This study will help us shape more effective support for dogs and the people who love them, to ultimately ease the burden on caregivers while strengthening the bond between dogs and their families.”
Simona Zito, Grants and Programmes Manager at Battersea Cats & Dogs Home, added, “At Battersea, our commitment to animal welfare extends far beyond the rescue work at our centres. We provide funding to a variety of veterinary and welfare programmes and organisations around the world as part of our commitment to driving positive drive in the sector. Battersea is proud to fund this research and is dedicated to working with partners to ensure the findings will be accessible, effective, and deliver real benefits for all dogs.”
The Living with Dogs survey is open now to all UK dog owners at rvc.uk.com/living-with-dogs-survey-main.
