Новое исследование: владельцы собак путают любовь с ответственностью

Dog owners may be confusing responsibility with love, according to new research from Dogs Trust. Data from the UK’s largest dog welfare charity has revealed that many dog owners fail to recognise that some of the most important things they do for their canine friends are also among the greatest acts of love. The new research shows owners instinctively associate love with treats, toys and play. However, they are far less likely to recognise guidance and protection as equally loving. While owners demonstrate strong intentions and understand many of the practical responsibilities that come with owning a dog, Dogs Trust's research suggests there is still considerable opportunity to strengthen their understanding of canine behaviour, welfare and the everyday decisions that help dogs thrive. Dogs Trust has today launched the Dog Ownership Guide (DOG), developed in partnership with the RSPCA, to provide the first shared definition of responsible dog ownership and help owners understand what it really means to give their dog the best life possible. At its heart, the DOG encourages owners and prospective owners to think more deeply about what it really means to love a dog. The nationwide research found owners overwhelmingly associate love with visible acts of affection. This includes giving treats, buying toys, spending quality time together, and supporting the DOG. On average, 79% recognise these behaviours as acts of love, compared with 57% who see them as acts of responsibility. The widest perception gaps appear in everyday moments designed to keep dogs safe. While 85% of owners recognise giving treats as an act of love, fewer than half (45%) say the same about keeping a dog on a lead when appropriate, and just 44% recognise preventing their dog from approaching another dog as an act of love, despite 85% acknowledging it is the responsible thing to do. The research also identified a clear ‘Love Recognition Gap’ when owners and prospective owners were asked to classify different everyday actions as either an act of love, an act of responsibility, or both. Visible love (good life). Treats, toys, play and quality time are recognised as acts of love by 79% of owners, compared with 57% who also recognise them as acts of responsibility. Practical care (lifetime commitment). Behaviours such as regular vet visits, a healthy diet and giving medication are recognised as acts of love by 59% of owners, compared with 83% who see them as acts of responsibility. Protective love (safe and secure). Actions such as recognising body language and removing dogs from stressful situations are seen as acts of love by 54% of owners, versus 81% who view them as responsibilities. Responsible guidance (good citizen and community). Training, reliable recall, keeping dogs on a lead where appropriate and seeking trusted guidance show the widest Love Recognition Gap, with just 54% recognising these behaviours as acts of love despite 84% recognising them as acts of responsibility. What did the research show about dog owners in different parts of the UK? - Both current and prospective dog owners in Wales rank highest among regions on the new responsible dog ownership score suggesting they are, or will be, the most responsible dog owners in the UK - Londoners top the table for the smallest Love Recognition Gap - Scotland ranked as the top region in the Public Responsibility category among prospective dog owners - South West leads the way in the Long-Term Ownership Mindset category, showing widespread agreement that responsible ownership is a lifelong commitment rather than merely providing affection in the moment. What have experts said? Owen Sharp, Chief Executive at Dogs Trust, said: "When we think about loving our dogs, it's natural to picture the moments we both enjoy, a walk together, a game in the park or giving them a favourite treat. But some of the greatest acts of love are often the hardest ones. Walking away from a stressful situation, keeping your dog on a lead, setting boundaries, asking for help or making decisions that protect their long-term wellbeing may not always feel affectionate in the moment, but they're often the decisions that keep dogs happiest, healthiest and safest. "Responsible dog ownership isn't about being perfect. It's about continuing to learn, understanding what your dog needs and making informed choices throughout their dog's life. Because sometimes the greatest act of love isn't the easiest decision, it's the one that's in your dog's best interests. That's exactly why we've developed the Dog Ownership Guide - to help owners feel confident making those decisions throughout every stage of their dog's life." Dr Samantha Gaines, dog welfare expert at the RSPCA, said: "Owning a dog is one of the greatest joys in life; but it’s also a huge responsibility. And being a responsible dog owner means doing the best for our pets but also for those people around us. Amid the cost of living crisis, and with life so busy, being a responsible pet owner can feel daunting to some. But the Dog Ownership Guide explains exactly what owners need to do to keep your dog happy, and keep them and others safe. "There are sadly many welfare and societal problems associated with irresponsible dog ownership today, but we believe that this Guide - if adopted and used across society - will help us tackle these head-on. This guide offers a one-stop shop for improving dog welfare and reducing the number of dogs suffering cruelty and neglect or ending up in rescue centres, easing the pressure on local authorities, police and charities, and better protecting public safety."