This study aims to analyze and conceptualize the burden perceived by dog owners using the concept mapping method. To achieve this, we conducted interviews with 20 adult dog owners who had more than one year of dog care experience, resulting in 93 stat...
This study aims to analyze and conceptualize the burden perceived by dog owners using the concept mapping method. To achieve this, we conducted interviews with 20 adult dog owners who had more than one year of dog care experience, resulting in 93 statements. Afterward, they rated the importance of each statement. The data were analyzed using multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analysis. The results revealed a two-dimensional structure: the source of burden (dog-related and owner-related factors) and the context of burden (emotional and environmental contexts). Three clusters emerged: (1) burden related to practical caregiving behaviors, (2) role stress and emotional burden, and (3) environmental factors and time constraints. These results contribute to a better understanding of the burden of dog caregiving and serve as a foundational resource for developing systematic counseling interventions.