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Ensuring Dog Welfare in Human Care

Mar 10, 2025

The Welfare of Dogs in Human Care

Introduction

  • Domestic dogs in Western countries are mainly pets.
  • Dogs also serve as working or laboratory animals and may exist in feral populations.
  • Human responsibility for dog welfare includes decisions about care, housing, transport, medical care, and euthanasia.
  • Welfare decisions should be evidence-based.
  • Chapter covers welfare issues such as genetic problems and care for companion dogs.

What Is Dog Welfare?

  • Welfare definitions vary among scientists.
  • Importance of dogs having positive experiences and avoiding negative ones like pain and boredom.
  • Quality of life and "a life worth living" are emerging welfare concepts.
  • It's difficult to ensure only positive states; balance is needed.

Assessing Welfare

  • Direct measurement of mental experiences isn't possible.
  • Welfare assessment relies on clinical, pathological, and behavioral signs.
  • Subjectivity in interpretation can be minimized by explicit inference bases.
  • Behavioral Measures:
    • Natural behaviors and responses to different environments.
    • Stereotypies can indicate serious welfare issues.
    • Experimental studies assess value dogs place on resources.

Genetic Welfare Problems

  • Breeding for traits has led to issues like breathing difficulties in brachycephalic breeds and uric acid issues in Dalmatians.
  • Public awareness and genetic tests aim to address genetic welfare problems.
  • Challenges include inbreeding and differing perceptions of desirable traits.

Dogs as Companions

  • Despite urbanization, dog ownership remains popular.
  • Issues arise from unsuitable owners and unrealistic expectations.
  • Socialization and training are crucial in preventing behavioral problems.
  • Separation anxiety affects many dogs; treatment includes desensitization.
  • Obesity is a growing concern due to overfeeding and lack of exercise.

Housing and Husbandry

  • Different kennels and housing types must meet welfare standards.
  • Space allowances vary and should accommodate social and environmental needs.
  • Social housing is preferred to meet dogs' social needs and prevent stress.
  • Enrichment through toys, chews, and environmental complexity improves welfare.
  • Careful consideration of dogs' sensory world aids in enrichment and stress reduction.

Transport

  • Transport poses risk; guidelines exist to ensure safety and welfare.
  • Increased transport leads to higher disease risks.

Conclusion

  • Despite growing interest, more welfare research on dogs is needed.
  • Addressing major welfare issues requires continued study and public awareness.

Key References

  • Notable studies and guidelines covering various aspects of dog welfare are cited throughout the chapter.