Psychological characteristics of Hungarian dog sport participants versus non-participants: An exploratory comparative analysis of parenting styles, dog-owner relationship, and physical activity

Abstract

Background : While research on dog sports has traditionally focused on canine physiology, there is a growing need to understand the human psychological factors that drive these activities. This study examines how dog sport participation influences the dog-owner bond, dog-directed parenting styles, and owner physical activity levels. By comparing Hungarian dog sport participants with non-participants, this research explores how cross-species cooperation fosters unique relationship dynamics and healthier human lifestyles. Methods : A total of 715 Hungarian dog owners were recruited via an online survey hosted on social media platforms. Participants completed a demographic questionnaire alongside two instruments validated for the Hungarian language: the Dog-Owner Relationship Scale (DORS) and the Dog-Directed Parenting Styles and Dimensions Questionnaire (DD-PSDQ). The sample was predominantly female (90.4%, n = 648; male: 9.4%, n = 67), with 41% (n = 294) actively participating in dog sports (mean experience = 5.96 years, SD = 6.04). Statistical analyses, including independent samples t-tests and Chi-square tests, were conducted to compare the profiles of sport participants and non-participants. Results : Dog sport participants scored significantly lower (M = 4.93, SD = 0.97) on the DORS’s Pet-Owner Interaction scale than non-participants (M = 5.34, SD = 1.02). Owners participating in dog sports scored significantly higher (M = 13.07, SD = 2.49) on the DD-PSDQ’s Authoritative training-oriented parenting style scale than owners who do not participate in dog sports (M = 11.82, SD = 3.23). However, non-participants scored significantly higher (M = 9.93, SD = 3.39) for the Authoritative intrinsic value-oriented scale than dog sport participants (M = 7.45, SD = 3.6). No significant difference was found between dog sport participants (56.8%) and non-participants (54.5%) regarding participation in human-only forms of exercise. Conclusions : While dog sports did not influence relationship quality or owner lifestyle factors, participation significantly promoted a training-oriented parenting style characterized by high demands and responsiveness. Rather than a lifestyle intervention, dog sports primarily function as a framework for structured, responsive cross-species management.