In this psychology-focused investigation, J. Krier examines how both internal influences—such as anticipated emotions and personal attitudes—and external influences—including subjective norms and perceived behavioral control—affect owners’ desire to engage in dog-accompanied travel. The study applies the MGB framework, which expands upon traditional theories of planned behavior by integrating emotional drivers and past experiences.
The research first outlines the demographic characteristics of participating dog owners, providing context for how travel patterns and preferences may differ across groups. A central focus is the role of Anticipated Emotions (AE): how owners expect to feel (positively or negatively) when traveling with their dogs, and how these expectations shape their desire to include dogs in travel plans.
The study also examines owners’ Attitudes toward the act (Aact) of dog-accompanied travel, highlighting how beliefs about convenience, enjoyment, or difficulty predict desire. Subjective Norms (SN)—the perceived expectations of others—are tested for their influence on travel decisions, as are owners’ levels of Perceived Behavioral Control (PBC), which refer to how capable and supported owners feel when traveling with their dogs.
A key component of the model is the link between desire and Behavioral Intent (BI), the latter representing a concrete plan or commitment to take action. The study confirms that desire is a strong predictor of BI within the dog-owner travel context.
Finally, the research evaluates how Past Behavior (PB) influences both future desire and intention. Owners who previously traveled with their dogs were more likely to express a desire and intention to do so again, suggesting that experience reinforces positive emotional expectations and perceived competence.
By applying the Model of Goal-Directed Behavior, the study provides a comprehensive psychological perspective on why dog owners choose to travel with their companions—insights that may support the development of dog-friendly travel services, policies, and tourism initiatives.
Source: Krier, J. (2014). Considering Canine Companionship: An Examination of Dog Owner Travel Desires Using the Model of Goal-Directed Behavior. Published December 1, 2014. Research grounded in psychology and behavioral intention modeling.
