In a large-scale survey published in the journal Anthrozoös, researchers including **Camille King, Temple Grandin, and James Serpell** evaluated how **behavioral, medical, and abuse histories** affect people’s perceptions of shelter dogs. With **752 participants**, the study used advanced statistical models to assess attitudes toward dogs described in various hypothetical profiles.
The findings were striking: dogs labeled with **behavioral issues**—such as jumping, pulling, or separation anxiety—were consistently rated as **less adoptable, less appealing, and more resource-intensive** than those with **medical conditions** like diabetes or allergies. In contrast, dogs with an **abuse history** were viewed more favorably than those with either behavioral or medical concerns, possibly due to a perceived need for compassion.
There were notable demographic differences as well. **Women** tended to rate behaviorally challenged dogs less adoptable than those with medical issues, while **men** had the opposite view. People with **past or current dog ownership**, **married individuals**, and **younger respondents** were generally more receptive to adoption across all profiles.
Importantly, the study suggests that **targeted strategies—such as training classes and educational resources—may improve adoption outcomes** for dogs with special needs. Shelters and rescues can use these insights to refine how they present dogs to the public, especially those requiring behavioral intervention or ongoing care.
Source: Camille King, T. J. Smith, E. Holman, J. Serpell, T. Grandin. Published in Anthrozoös, Volume 34, Pages 507–524, on April 29, 2021.
