Hae Mee Shim, H.-R. Park, J.-S. Han, and D. Lee (2022) created a standardized scale to assess the parenting behaviors of dog owners, recognizing that canine behavioral problems are rising with the growing companion dog population. Owner behaviors, much like parenting in children, profoundly shape dogs’ socialization and emotional development.
The researchers surveyed 300 participants, using exploratory factor analysis to identify four key subscales: Positive Education, Involvement of Socialization, Intimacy, and Stable Responses. A total of 19 items formed the final scale, which was then confirmed through confirmatory factor analysis to ensure reliability and validity.
Importantly, results showed that scores differed significantly between owners of dogs with behavioral problems and those without, demonstrating the scale’s sensitivity. While parallels exist with child-rearing, the study noted that control-related behaviors required for dogs differ from those in parenting children, reflecting the unique needs of canine development.
This validated tool can serve as a framework for owner education programs, helping prevent the development of problem behaviors and fostering healthier, well-socialized dogs.
Source: Shim, H. M., Park, H.-R., Han, J.-S., & Lee, D. (2022). Study for the development and validation of a dog owner’s parenting behavior scale. Korean Journal of Veterinary Research.
