Are owners witnessing irresponsible behaviour from their dogs?

New research has found that seven in ten dog owners have witnessed or experienced poor behaviour from dogs in public just this summer alone. The most common incidents included dogs running over to strangers in the park, chasing livestock, or barking at other dogs and children nearby.

Many also reported seeing dogs briefly stray out of sight or jump up at people, behaviours that, while sometimes dismissed as playful, can be intimidating or even dangerous.

The research by Blue Cross also uncovered gaps in preparation and understanding among owners. A third (33%) admitted they had only done a small amount of research into their dog’s needs before bringing them home, while nearly a third (31%) confessed they chose their dog simply because it was cute.

Aston spoke to Jason Cortis, education officer at Blue Cross.

Photo by Andreas Wagner on Unsplash