Factors Influencing Dog Ownership in a UK Community
Author Information
Author(s): Carri Westgarth, Gina L Pinchbeck, John WS Bradshaw, Susan Dawson, Rosalind M Gaskell, Robert M Christley
Primary Institution: University of Liverpool
Hypothesis
What factors are associated with dog ownership and contact with dogs in a semi-rural community?
Conclusion
Certain household types, particularly those with older children and adult females, are more likely to own dogs.
Supporting Evidence
- 24% of households were identified as dog-owning.
- Households with more occupants were more likely to own a dog.
- Dog owners reported increased contact with dogs other than their own.
Takeaway
Some families are more likely to have dogs, especially if they have older kids or an adult woman in the house.
Methodology
Data were collected through doorstep interviews using a questionnaire in a defined geographic area.
Potential Biases
Potential recall bias may have affected the reporting of contact with dogs.
Limitations
The study focused on a small geographic area, which may limit the generalizability of the results.
Participant Demographics
The study included households from a semi-rural community in Cheshire, UK.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI 5.4–10.0
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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