One-third of people don't believe dogs can feel worry – survey finds
"What is concerning is that this means there are still large numbers of people who do not believe that dogs can feel basic negative emotions" - Esme Wheeler, RSPCA.
A new survey published by the RSPCA had found that approximately one-fifth of UK adults do not believe that dogs can feel sadness or boredom, and around one-third do not believe that dogs can feel worry.
The data comes from the RSPCA's Animal Kindness Index, released in partnership with the Scottish SPCA. This is a study exploring the UK's attitudes toward animals.
Respondents were asked about whether they believed dogs could feel certain emotions, with varying results for each emotion. Though 92 per cent of people agreed that dogs were sentient, some did not believe that dogs could feel emotions such as sadness or boredom.
Dog behaviourist and RSPCA dog welfare expert Esme Wheeler commented on the statistics: “I’m really pleased that the Animal Kindness Index found that 92 per cent of people agreed that dogs were sentient and that so many people believed dogs could feel a range of emotions, including happiness and fear (both 86 per cent), as well as sadness (80 per cent) and worry (69 per cent).
“However, what is concerning is that this means there are still large numbers of people who do not believe that dogs can feel basic negative emotions, and this may mean that many dogs could be suffering or struggling without recognition.
“If approximately a fifth of people believe dogs don’t feel sadness or boredom and around a third do not believe dogs feel worry, then there could be millions of sad and worried dogs living in the UK, and that’s a really sad thought, particularly given the surge in dog ownership that we saw over the last few years.”
The number of respondents who believed that dogs could feel certain emotions are as follows; fear (86 per cent), happiness (86 per cent), love towards people (83 per cent), sadness (80 per cent), boredom (80 per cent), jealousy (73 per cent), anger (71 per cent), love towards other dogs (71 per cent) and worry (69 per cent).
Owners are urged to ensure they understand dog behaviour and body language, so that they are best able to support their pet and know that they are feeling content and happy.
“We know most people understand the signs our dogs give us to indicate that they’re happy; such as waggy tails, relaxed body postures, and play-bows,” Esme continued.
“But it can be easy for owners to miss the subtle signs that indicate that our dogs are worried or sad; especially if people don’t believe they’re capable of such emotions.
“Sadly, everyday aspects of life can be difficult for some dogs - such as loud noises, unknown visitors to the house, or being left home alone - so understanding that our dogs can feel these emotions and knowing the signs to look out for can help us to help them.
“And let’s face it, we all love our dogs so much that we just want them to be happy!”
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
