The Knowledge Gap in Animal Welfare: How It Affects Dogs and Other Species
The Biggest Welfare Challenge: Lack of Knowledge
A recent study identified the lack of knowledge about animal welfare as the top concern affecting various species, including dogs, cats, horses, and farm animals. Despite years of research and education, crucial information about animal care is often not reaching the people who need it most—pet owners, trainers, and even some veterinarians.
For dogs, this knowledge gap leads to poor breeding practices, behavioral issues, and inadequate care, all of which can significantly impact their well-being. However, this issue isn’t exclusive to dogs—it affects many other species in different ways.
Key Welfare Concerns for Dogs and Other Animals
The study outlined priority welfare issues across multiple species. Here’s how the lack of knowledge manifests in different animals:
Dogs – Poor breeding practices leading to genetic disorders and behavioral issues.
Cats – Social behavior problems due to inappropriate home environments.
Horses – Delayed euthanasia decisions, causing prolonged suffering.
Rabbits – Lack of socialization and proper handling, leading to stress.
Exotics – Inadequate care by owners unfamiliar with their specific needs.
Pigs – Behavioral needs not being met, resulting in stress and aggression.
Poultry – Health issues from breeding and selection practices.
Dairy Animals – Poor nutrition and issues with neonatal mortality.
Wildlife – Harmful wildlife management practices and captivity stress.
The Impact of Lack of Knowledge on Dog Welfare
For dogs, two major areas of concern stand out:
1️⃣ Problem Behaviors – Many behavioral issues, such as aggression, separation anxiety, and excessive barking, stem from a lack of understanding of canine needs and communication. Training techniques that rely on outdated or punitive methods often make these problems worse.
2️⃣ Genetics and Breeding Issues – Poor breeding decisions have led to a rise in hereditary conditions like hip dysplasia, brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), and other serious health problems. Many breeders and owners still lack awareness about responsible breeding practices and genetic testing.
How We Can Bridge the Knowledge Gap
🔹 Education for Owners – Providing accessible, evidence-based information on proper dog training, behavior, and care can prevent many welfare issues.
🔹 Better Training for Veterinarians – Ensuring that vets receive up-to-date training on animal behavior and welfare science can help improve care standards.
🔹 Responsible Breeding Practices – Encouraging genetic testing and ethical breeding choices can reduce the prevalence of hereditary health issues.
🔹 Promoting Positive Reinforcement Training – Moving away from outdated, punishment-based training methods can help dogs thrive behaviorally and emotionally.
Final Thoughts
Lack of knowledge is a major welfare issue that spans across species, but for dogs, it directly affects their health, behavior, and overall quality of life. By improving education, responsible breeding, and evidence-based training, we can take meaningful steps toward ensuring better welfare for all animals.
Understanding is the key to change—let’s make sure the right knowledge reaches the right people.
Author: Angelique de Kock
Angelique is a qualified Behaviour Consultant (DipCABT C.C.A.B.), Dog Trainer, and Blue Level Instructor with the World Scent Dog Association. She specializes in scentwork, reactivity, and positive reinforcement training, helping dogs and their owners build confidence and communication through science-based methods.
Angelique’s experience spans working with a variety of species beyond dogs, including parrots, rabbits, and even elephants! She currently shares her life with Swift, her talented Border Collie who excels in scentwork trials. She also co-hosts the Barkology Podcast, discussing dog behavior and welfare with fellow professionals.