Three Things to Know
While owner expectations significantly determine the likelihood of success for dog adoptions, there has been little research into how and where prospective owners seek information before acquiring a dog. A UK study addressed this gap by surveying and interviewing current and prospective dog owners.
The research revealed that most owners consult multiple sources. Websites were found to be convenient, while friends and family who own dogs were highly trusted. Participants also valued direct interaction with a dog. Their information gathering typically focused on five key areas: general dog knowledge, breeds or types, owner suitability, the responsibilities of dog ownership, and where to find a dog.
Most survey participants researched for two to six months, though this often happened at various times, not exclusively before getting a dog. Over 90% reported finding the information they needed. Despite this, few had sought advice from professionals (like veterinarians or trainers) before bringing a dog home.
For Dog Welfare Practitioners
The research highlights that prospective dog owners are generally posing the right questions and obtaining answers through readily available channels like the internet and their social networks. Although dog welfare organizations (including humane societies and veterinarians) possess the expertise to provide professional advice, the findings suggest potential barriers in prospective owners’ willingness to dedicate the necessary time and financial resources for direct consultation.
Therefore, if organizations seek to improve how potential owners prepare, a more effective strategy may be to focus on digital accessibility: boosting SEO to ensure their websites rank highly and effectively direct individuals to trusted information. Moreover, recognizing that research is often a long-term process, consistent community outreach is essential for organizations to build relationships and position themselves as indispensable, go-to resources once the prospective owner is ready to commit.
The Full Picture
Despite the availability of advice on acquiring and caring for dogs—from sources like friends, breeders, online platforms, and charities—little is known about how much this information influences prospective owners’ decisions. Studies show many new dog owners are surprised by the time and financial costs involved, and that only limited pre-purchase research is often undertaken. While the internet is a common information source, concerns exist about the reliability and clarity of online content.
To address this gap, this study, titled “UK Dog Owners’ Pre-Acquisition Information and Advice-Seeking: A Mixed Methods Study”, explores how UK residents prepare for dog ownership — specifically examining what information they seek, where they look, how long they spend researching, and whether they find the guidance they need.
Study Methods
This study combined survey and interview data to explore pre-acquisition research among current and potential UK dog owners. An online survey gathered retrospective data from current owners and future intentions from potential owners about their information-seeking behaviours before acquiring a dog. The survey, ran from September to December 2019, collected demographic data and focused on the type, source, duration, and completeness of information sought. Additionally, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 24 current and 8 potential owners to gain deeper insights.
Study Results
Survey
The majority of respondents were female (88.9% current, 80.1% potential owners) and most lived in England. Among current owners, two-thirds had acquired their dog within the past five years, and over half obtained puppies under six months of age. Most dogs were either purebred (57.6%) or crossbreeds (23.1%), primarily acquired from breeders (48.5%) or rehoming centers (37.8%).
How And Where Prospective Owners Seek Information Before Acquiring A Dog
Information Sources Used Before Acquiring A Dog
Respondents used multiple information sources, with websites being the most common (76.2%), followed by family/friends (69.6%), online forums (51.1%), and books (37.3%). However, few consulted veterinarians or behaviorists, despite some indicating interest in doing so. Barriers to consulting professionals may include cost concerns, lack of awareness, or convenience preferences.
Qualitative responses highlighted the value of personal experiences from friends, family, or first-hand interactions with dogs. Blogs, breed-specific sites, and charity websites were frequently mentioned.
Five key themes emerged from the qualitative data:
- General Dog Knowledge: Prospective owners wanted to know about dogs’ needs (e.g., diet, exercise, grooming) and characteristics (e.g., temperament, size).
- Breeds/Types: Owners researched specific breeds or compared options based on lifestyle compatibility. Health, grooming, and training needs were frequent focal points.
- Owner Suitability: Many assessed their own lifestyle, home, and family needs to find a dog that matched. Considerations included activity level, compatibility with children or other pets, and work schedules.
- Dog Ownership Responsibilities: Owners wanted to understand the responsibilities, including training, local services, and long-term care. Some sought to anticipate challenges, not just the benefits.
- Sourcing Dogs: Research included how to find responsible breeders or trustworthy rescue organizations, including international ones.
Prospective owners often focused on dog breeds, placing importance on traits and suitability. However, this reliance on breed stereotypes may lead to unrealistic expectations and overlook the individual variability within breeds.
Time Spent on Research
Over 40% spent two to six months researching. Importantly, research was found to occur at various timepoints — not just before acquisition. Some spent years passively gathering information before intensifying efforts closer to acquisition. Life circumstances (e.g., sudden rescue opportunities) sometimes limited available time for preparation.
Information Gap
Most respondents (over 90%) reported finding the information they needed. However, it remains unclear whether the information was accurate or complete. The definition and quality of “research” varied among participants, and time spent seeking information did not necessarily equate to informed decision-making.
Those that did not find the information they needed mentioned gaps related to specific situations (e.g., deaf dogs, adopting with young children), conflicting advice, or difficulty finding consolidated, trustworthy information.
The findings highlight the need for better promotion of evidence-based information and pre-acquisition support from professionals. Welfare organisations and professionals could play a greater role in guiding owners to reliable resources and offering consultations.
Conclusion
This study is the largest UK-based study on pre-acquisition dog research to date.It explored where current and prospective dog owners seek information before acquiring a dog, and what topics they investigate.
Most prospective dog owners value pre-acquisition research and often turn to online resources and trusted individuals for advice. However, professional advice from vets and behaviourists is less commonly sought. Prospective owners are interested in understanding dog needs, breed traits, and responsible acquisition practices. While many report finding the information they need, concerns about source reliability and conflicting advice persist. Promoting access to trustworthy, professional guidance — particularly online — can support better-informed decisions, benefitting both owners and canine welfare.
Miscellaneous
Data From Study:
Owned Dogs > Acquisition > Pre-Acquisition Research
Year of Publication:
2024
External Link:
Mead R, Holland KE, Casey RA, Upjohn MM, Christley RM. UK Dog Owners’ Pre-Acquisition Information- and Advice-Seeking: A Mixed Methods Study. Animals. 2024; 14(7):1033. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14071033