Environmental enrichment is widely used to improve the welfare of animals in captivity, and olfactory stimulation has been proposed as a tool for shelter dogs. In this pilot study, Figueira et al. (2023) examined how 41 dogs responded to exposure to scented stimuli adapted from enrichment protocols for wild canids.
Using the focal animal method, researchers classified behavioral responses as positive (P+), negative (N-), or other (Ot). Results revealed a significant increase in both P+ behaviors (p = 0.001) and N- behaviors (p = 0.004) during exposure compared to baseline, while other behaviors decreased (p = 0.001). Once the scent was removed, behaviors returned to baseline levels.
Interestingly, there was no significant difference between dogs housed in small versus large groups, suggesting the effect of olfactory enrichment was consistent across pack sizes. However, unlike in wild canid studies, shelter dogs displayed increased stress-related behaviors, likely due to the novelty of the stimulus in an otherwise impoverished environment.
The findings highlight that while shelter dogs are highly responsive to olfactory enrichment, the method needs refinement. The authors suggest introducing scents in a more controlled manner—such as exposing dogs individually in isolated rooms—to maximize welfare benefits while minimizing stress.
This study emphasizes the potential of olfactory enrichment but also cautions that context and implementation matter greatly for welfare outcomes in shelter dogs.
Source: Figueira, M. P., Silva, F. F. R., Ribeiro, A., Silva, I. O., & Boere, V. (2023). Olfactory stimulus as environmental enrichment for shelter dogs: a pilot study. Brazilian Journal of Veterinary Research and Animal Science. Published April 18, 2023.
