Our research and expertise

Our groundbreaking research informs the future of our work. 

Dog in a field of yellow flowers

Research is a vital part of our work. It helps us ensure that our policies and practices are based on evidence and helps to inform we continue to be fit for the future. 

Our experts are always making sure that we remain current, informed and aware of research developments within the fields of canine behaviour, welfare, epidemiology, human behaviour change and veterinary science. 

If the evidence that we need does not yet exist, we may set up a research study to investigate a specific question. All the research we do is to benefit the welfare of dogs, and we never undertake or fund any studies which are invasive, or which may cause harm or distress to any dog. 

The findings of the research conducted by our experts may be used to:

  • Improve the physical and mental wellbeing of dogs within our rehoming centres.
  • Help address dog behaviour issues, by assisting with the development of effective training programs, carried out within our rehoming centres or Dog School.
  • Identify key drivers behind the successful rehoming of dogs, in order to ensure dogs are best matched to the new owners.
  • Provide support to dog owners, within the wider community, in order to help cultivate harmonious and enjoyable dog-owner relationships.
  • More effectively engage with the public, in order to promote responsible dog ownership and highlight the importance of dog welfare.
  • Inform our discussions with the government and policymakers about the implications of their decisions on the welfare of dogs and their owners. 

The results of our research

Responsible dog ownership

Responsible dog ownership

Stray Dogs Survey: Research

Stray Dogs Survey: Research

UK Pet Dog Population Project: Research

UK Pet Dog Population Project: Research

Fireworks: Research

Fireworks: Research

Post Adoption Welfare Study (PAWS)

Post Adoption Welfare Study (PAWS)

Generation Pup: Research

Generation Pup: Research

Longevity of UK Dog Breeds: Research

Longevity of UK Dog Breeds: Research

Public Perceptions of Dog Behaviour & Emotion: Research

Public Perceptions of Dog Behaviour & Emotion: Research

Measuring the Human-Canine Animal Bond: Research

Measuring the Human-Canine Animal Bond: Research

Choosing My Dog: Research

Choosing My Dog: Research

National Dog Survey 2024

National Dog Survey 2024

National Dog Survey 2025

National Dog Survey 2025

pdf 4.5 MB
Download our Research Review 2025

Our experts

Our experts make sure that dog welfare and health is at the heart of everything we do. They provide specialist advice and guidance to teams across the organisation, helping to shape our services and advice.

Behaviour team

Behaviour team

Veterinary team

Veterinary team

How we support professionals

We support professionals in their fields of expertise with practical advice, courses and resources to help ensure that together, we can make tomorrow's world a better place for dogs and the people who love them.

From our Dog Friendly Clinics scheme, top tips for dog walkers, to dog safety resources for teachers - we provide the tools professionals need to help us achieve our mission.

For professionals

For professionals

Research archive

pdf 4.3 MB
Download our Research Review 2024
pdf 4.3 MB
Download our Research Review 2023