Published in Animals, this scoping review by Peter Verbeek and colleagues examined over a decade of research on the human–dog bond to better understand its implications for canine welfare. The team analyzed 706 studies published between 2012 and 2023 from around the world, identifying 246 papers that explicitly focused on the welfare of dogs within the human–dog relationship.
The review found that the bond between humans and dogs is not universally beneficial for the animal. While companionship and care often improve a dog’s welfare by providing emotional support, stability, and enrichment, certain aspects of human attachment and behavior can negatively affect the dog. For instance, over-dependence, inconsistent handling, and anthropomorphism—interpreting dogs’ emotions solely through a human lens—may lead to stress or behavioral problems in dogs.
The researchers highlighted that most existing studies were conducted in Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic (WEIRD) societies and largely focused on pet dogs. There is a significant gap in understanding how the human–dog bond affects working, assistance, and service dogs, whose welfare depends on different social and functional dynamics.
Importantly, the findings underscore that both owner characteristics (such as empathy, lifestyle, and expectations) and dog traits (such as breed, temperament, and early experiences) influence the quality and impact of the bond. The study calls for a more balanced approach—one that considers the dog’s perspective and avoids viewing the bond solely through a human-centered lens.
By fostering awareness of how emotional connection and daily interactions shape a dog’s welfare, this research encourages owners, trainers, and professionals to develop mutually beneficial, welfare-focused relationships with their canine companions.
Source: Verbeek, P., Majure, C. A., Quattrochi, L., & Turner, S. J. (2024). The Welfare of Dogs as an Aspect of the Human–Dog Bond: A Scoping Review. Animals, 14. Published July 1, 2024.
