Published in Animals, this critical review by Katrina E. Holland synthesizes research and welfare reports to better understand how people make decisions when acquiring a pet dog. Each year, millions of individuals worldwide bring dogs into their homes, yet the process of choosing a dog—its breed, source, and characteristics—remains multifaceted and often poorly informed.
The review outlines that dog acquisition is influenced by a wide range of human- and dog-related factors. Prospective owners frequently base decisions on physical appearance, behavioral traits, and perceived health of the dog. Popular culture, breed trends, and the visibility of certain breeds in media contribute to social influence, shaping preferences in ways that may not align with welfare considerations or long-term suitability.
Human demographic and socioeconomic variables—including age, income, lifestyle, and family structure—also play substantial roles in shaping acquisition choices. Another key determinant is prior ownership experience: individuals with previous dogs often feel more confident in making decisions, while first-time owners may underestimate the time, financial costs, and emotional commitment required.
Across the acquisition stages, there are opportunities for both welfare-supportive practices and decisions that may compromise canine well-being. For example, some prospective owners may select breeds with extreme physical features without understanding associated health problems, or they may choose dogs from sources that lack transparency or prioritize profit over welfare.
A central contribution of the review is highlighting the interactions among these factors. Dog choice is rarely driven by a single motivation; rather, complex combinations of appearance, perceived personality, social influence, personal values, and practical considerations intersect to shape behavior. This complexity underscores the need for stakeholders—trainers, veterinarians, welfare organizations, and policymakers—to understand emerging trends in owner motivations in order to promote more responsible, welfare-centered acquisition practices.
Holland concludes that improving public education on realistic dog-care expectations, facilitating access to reliable information, and encouraging thoughtful decision-making can significantly benefit both dog welfare and long-term owner satisfaction. By synthesizing existing evidence, the review sets a foundation for more nuanced interventions and future research in the field of canine acquisition behavior.
Source: Holland, K. E. (2019). Acquiring a Pet Dog: A Review of Factors Affecting the Decision-Making of Prospective Dog Owners. Animals. Published March 28, 2019.
