Housing Conditions and Dog Welfare

Dogs are social, active and exploratoric animals. Keeping them in restricted area leads to limitations in their activities. In addition, conditions of shelters for dogs without taking care of basic requirements can be a source of stress. Stressful situations that endure, say for several days, may induce different stress responses, and will be more detrimental to a dog’s state of welfare, than when such situations are relatively short lasting. The physical activity favourably affects the physiological and mental parameters that result in greater welfare level and an improved physical fitness. The lack of human care seriously impairs the health and well-being of dog, making it susceptible to disease, as well as behovioural problems and anxiety disorders. Concern over the well-being of dogs has prompted much research in recent years. This paper reviews the findings and results of the studies available in the scientific literature on this matter.