Length of stay (LOS) in animal shelters—the time between intake and adoption or other outcome—has long been a key welfare concern. While previous studies identified physical characteristics and some behaviors that influence adoption rates, McGuire and colleagues (2025) investigated whether behaviors shown specifically during harnessing and leash walks predict LOS.
Researchers observed 120 dogs during 707 walks at a New York shelter. They focused on excitable behaviors such as jumping on handlers, grabbing walking equipment, and pulling on the leash. Findings showed that jumping on handlers was the most common behavior during harnessing (45%), while leash-pulling was most frequent during walks (86%).
Age emerged as the strongest demographic predictor: younger dogs were significantly more likely to jump and pull. Most importantly, grabbing the leash during a walk was directly associated with longer shelter stays, suggesting that this behavior negatively impacts adoption likelihood. Other excitable behaviors, though prevalent, did not predict LOS as strongly.
These results emphasize the need for behavior-focused training programs in shelters, particularly targeting younger dogs and those prone to leash-grabbing. By addressing such behaviors early, shelters may improve dogs’ adoptability and reduce their time in care, enhancing welfare outcomes for both dogs and potential adopters.
Source: McGuire, B., Guy, B., Garland, M., & Jackson, A. (2025). Behaviors of Shelter Dogs During Harnessing and Leash Walks: Prevalence, Demographics, and Length of Stay. Animals, 15. Published March 1, 2025.
