Changes in Dog Behaviour Associated with the COVID-19 Lockdown, Pre-Existing Separation-Related Problems and Alterations in Owner Behaviour

SIMPLE SUMMARY: During the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries went into lockdowns, this raised concerns about dog behaviour, especially in relation to separation-related problem behaviour. We undertook a monthly survey during which we asked people about their work patterns, dog management practices and their dogs’ behaviour. We found that dogs who showed signs potentially indicating separation-related problems prior to COVID seemed to be more likely to worsen and develop further behavioural issues during lockdown. These changes were not just associated with separation-related issues but included more general issues related to stress. Dogs who, when separated from their owner pre-COVID, vocalized, self-injured, or showed frustration at confinement were particularly prone to developing issues related to owner attempts to go or be out of sight at home during lockdown, e.g., when the owner tried to leave the room. Changes in management appeared to be associated with specific forms of stress with related behaviour changes, for example, changes to a dog’s safe space seemed to result in efforts by the dog to increase control over its environment. Different patterns relating to the emergence over time of the risk of aggression towards the owner were apparent between those working from home and those continuing to work outside the home. ABSTRACT: During the COVID-19 pandemic, lockdowns provided an opportunity to assess what factors, including changes in an owner’s routine and time spent at home, were associated with changes in dog behaviour. We undertook a longitudinal survey over a period of 8 months during which we asked about people’s work patterns, dog management, and their dogs’ behaviour. Generalized linear models revealed that the pre-existence of signs of potential separation-related problems, and especially vocalisation, self-injury, and chewing to escape confinement, was associated with an increase in a range of separation issues. Dogs showing separation-related signs prior to COVID were also more likely to develop more problems during lockdown. Management changes tended to result in increased physical and social stress, with a range of potential compensatory actions taken by the dog, however these signs of stress did not generally appear to be connected to separation-related issues. Survival analysis was used to investigate the emergence of specific issues over time. This indicated that a change to working from home was related initially to a decreased risk of aggression towards the owner, but over time, those who continued to work from the home were at an increased risk of this problem. No other significant time-related relationships were found.