Previous research has documented cultural differences in perceptions of assistance dogs, but this topic had not been revisited in nearly two decades. This 2021 study surveyed 258 Australians to explore their attitudes toward both assistance and companion dogs, focusing on interest, perceived happiness, and overall support for their roles.
Findings revealed participants were equally interested in both dog types, yet showed greater support for assistance dogs. Assistance dogs were widely viewed as happier, potentially due to their close companionship with handlers and the fulfillment of having a working role. In contrast, companion dogs were sometimes perceived as neglected or lacking stimulation.
Qualitative responses highlighted a pattern: Australians saw practical benefits in assistance dogs—such as increased mobility, emotional stability, and independence—while valuing the emotional comfort of companion dogs. However, several participants expressed concern that assistance work could be restrictive, potentially limiting the dog’s freedom.
Compared to earlier studies, there was a notable rise in welfare concerns for both assistance and companion dogs. This suggests shifting attitudes toward the ethics of keeping dogs primarily for human benefit, with a growing emphasis on animal rights and wellbeing.
The authors conclude that while Australians largely celebrate the role of assistance dogs, there is an increasing call to ensure that their work remains humane and that both assistance and companion dogs receive adequate mental and physical enrichment.
Source: Gibson, P. E., & Oliva, J. (2021). “Public Perceptions of Australian Assistance Dogs: Happier and Better Used Than Companion Dogs.” Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science, 25, 18–30.
