An exploratory study of dog owners’ experiences in nature

Abstract

The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore the experiences of individuals who spend time in nature with their dogs. The study was guided by three key research questions: what is the essence of the experience; how does time in nature with a dog differ from time in nature without a dog; and what are the outcomes of spending time in nature with a dog? Eight participants who spent at least six hours a week in nature with their dog were interviewed. Transcripts were analyzed and coded. Three overall themes (heightened experience, negotiating constraints, and outcomes) emerged, which informed the three research questions. This study connected two related research areas, adding to existing literature on dog ownership and nature experiences.