Understanding the behaviour of adopted northern Canadian community dogs through a mixed-methods approach
Format of work:
Journal Article
Event presented at / Journal Name:
Applied Animal Behaviour Science
Speaker / Contact Author's Name:
Danielle Sorbie
Speaker / Contact Author's E-mail Address:
DANIELLE.SORBIE@stu.mmu.ac.uk
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Research aim:
This study investigated how Northern dogs—originating from remote Canadian communities and later rehomed in more urban or southern settings—adjust to their new environments after adoption. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research explored the behavioural outcomes of these dogs and how environmental, demographic, and lifestyle factors influence their adaptation and well-being.
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Background:
Dogs from Northern Canadian communities often live with greater autonomy and fewer restrictions than typical pet dogs. As part of population control programs, many are rehomed to more controlled, urban environments where their ability to express natural behaviours may be limited. This transition can lead to behavioural challenges, especially if their new homes are not aligned with their previous lifestyle.
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Approach:
A total of 357 adoptive owners completed an 89-item online survey, which included a shortened version of the Canine Behaviour and Research Questionnaire (C-BARQ) and an open-ended question about their dog’s adjustment. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to determine behavioural structures, and logistic regression assessed the impact of variables such as age at adoption, access to conspecifics, and household composition. Qualitative content analysis explored owners’ perspectives in depth.
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Key finding:
Northern dogs scored particularly high in Chasing, Energy, and Attachment behaviours. Influencing factors included age at adoption, access to other dogs, and household size. Many owners reported behavioural challenges, potentially linked to frustration or reduced control over their environment compared to their previous lifestyle. Content analysis highlighted recurring themes of adjustment struggles and the importance of matching dogs' needs with the home environment.
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Industry or policy relevance:
These findings underline the need for rehoming programmes to consider the behavioural and environmental histories of Northern dogs. Tailored post-adoption support and awareness about their unique needs can improve welfare outcomes and reduce behavioural issues.
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Route for practical application:
Adopters and shelters should be informed about the behavioural profiles and needs of Northern dogs. Environments that allow for autonomy, physical activity, and social interaction with other dogs may help facilitate smoother adjustment. Guidelines and support materials could be developed to assist adopters in providing enriched, appropriate care.
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Confidence in findings and next steps towards realising impact:
Findings are supported by both quantitative analysis and rich qualitative data. Further studies are needed to evaluate intervention strategies and compare adjustment trajectories across different types of dogs and rehoming contexts.
Funders:
None
Links to Open Access Publications or DOI:
Citation:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168159125000954#ack0005
