Caregiver perspectives on the value of dogs and their effects on children in private and public spaces

Abstract

We explored the views of caregivers regarding the value of dogs and the effects of caregiver views on children in private and public spaces in New Zealand.

This was an observational study utilizing a national anonymized online survey and focus groups in Auckland and Kaikohe to explore caregiver perceptions of the value of dogs within whānau (families) or the community, experiences of dog-related harm in the context of children, and the perceived importance of education as a prevention strategy. Quantitative and qualitative data were sought, using a general inductive approach.

256 caregivers responded to the online survey, and 12 caregivers participated in focus groups. Dogs were highly valued by Māori and non-Māori, predominantly as part of family. 233 dog-related incidents were described, occurring in both public and private settings, with both bite and non-bite harm from being charged at, knocked over, jumped on or attacked, as often significantly intimidating or traumatic experiences for children and their caregivers. Key themes were the emotional effect of an attack, the perception that children could avoid harm through education, blame placed on children, minimization of the trauma a dog can cause, and owner underestimation of risk.

This study revealed a broader picture of how children are physically and emotionally affected by dogs in both private and public spaces, indicating the need for proactive approaches in both. Dogs may become activated to attack due to their nature and unpredictable tendencies in response to children’s natural movements, and future strategies may need to include a focus on owner-perception of risk to children in addition to creating child-safe environments and addressing systemic issues, rather than relying on child or dog behavior to prevent harm. The finding of high value people have for dogs is important to understand as this may be a barrier to implementation of evidence-based strategies.