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Animal Behavior Research

These studies will help you manage common dog and cat behavioral concerns. Use the research takeaways to improve animal welfare in your community.

Animal Behavior Pathway Resources

If you have questions or comments about these behavior pathway resources and tools, please email shelterbehavior@aspca.org. We also hope you will let us know how these behavior pathway resources are used in your organization!

Online Learning Courses from the ASPCA Learning Lab

Shelter staff and volunteers will benefit from these short online courses designed to enrich the lives of shelter dogs and encourage good behavior.

The Daily Change-Up

Mackenzie’s Animal Sanctuary incorporates in-kennel canine enrichment into daily activities like cleaning kennels and feeding.

Upcycle Enrichment Ideas Using Donated Items

Learn easy (and free) ways to build enrichment for shelter animals to reduce stress, provide mental stimulation, and improve behavior.

How-to Guide, Tips and Videos for Leash Handling

Learn essential leash skills to care for shelter dogs through best practices taught at the ASPCA’s Adoption Center’s Canine Classroom.

How Shelter Pets Benefit from “Real-Life” Rooms

Three animal welfare organizations with real-life rooms--where adoptable pets can relax and decompress--share the benefits, challenges, and recommendations for such spaces.

Stressbuster: Canine Sleepovers

Find out how one shelter reduces stress for dogs without entirely removing them from the adoption floor.

They Did It: Doggy Day Out

Read about one agency's Doggy Day Out program that lets volunteers take dogs on trips of their choosing like hikes, beach trips, dinners and even sleepovers.

Scent Games for Canine Enrichment

Keeping dogs enriched while they are in your care is crucial to their well-being. Try out our DIY scent game made with free and inexpensive materials.