Comparison of Canine Behaviour Scored Using a Shelter Behaviour Assessment and an Owner Completed Questionnaire C-BARQ

摘要

In shelters, it is usual to conduct a standardised behaviour assessment to identify adoption suitability. The information gathered from the assessment is used to identify the behaviour of the dogs, suitability for adoption and to help to match the dog to an ideal home environment. We investigated if the dogs’ behaviour in the home as reported by owners was reflected in the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) Queensland behaviour assessment, conducted on the same dogs during a visit to the shelter. A total of 107 owners and their dogs aged 1–10 years were assessed in-home, by the owners, and in the shelter, by a researcher. The owners completed a questionnaire (Canine Behavioural Assessment and Research Questionnaire (C-BARQ)) prior to the standardised behavioural assessment conducted at the RSPCA Queensland. Regression analysis identified positive correlations between the two for fear, arousal, friendliness and anxiousness, identified in in-home behaviour and the behaviour assessment. This research therefore allowed a greater understanding of current canine behaviour assessment protocols used at the RSPCA Queensland in regard to the predictability of behaviour, behavioural problems and the efficiency and effectiveness of testing procedures.