Project outline
Noise is a largely overlooked part of the environments we create for dogs. In kennels, barking can produce extremely high sound levels, yet we know remarkably little about the consequences for dogs’ welfare, staff and neighbouring communities. At the same time, practitioners lack the evidence needed to assess and manage barking noise effectively. This interdisciplinary PhD offers a curious and motivated student the opportunity to shape an original programme of research at the intersection of acoustics, animal welfare and human perception. The findings could change how we think about sound in environments designed for dogs, providing the evidence needed to improve welfare, develop more effective approaches to noise mitigation, and influence future practice and guidance.
Further project information
The National Noise Attitude Survey 2012 found that 11% of respondents reported moderate to extreme annoyance to dog noise from neighbours [1]. Barking represents one of the most significant sources of noise in kennels [2]. Sound levels as high as 100-110 dB LAeq have been reported inside shelters and veterinary kennels, resulting in measurable decreases in dog hearing sensitivity [3]. In humans, long-term exposure to noise is also associated with stress-related health effects [4], but the effects of noisy kennels on dog wellbeing have not been adequately studied. Recent draft guidance from the Association of Noise Consultants highlights the timeliness of the issue of kennel noise [5]. However, an evidence base for planning noise criteria remains lacking.
This project will centre on understanding the relationship between acoustic characteristics of barking, dog welfare, and human perception, with several possible areas of investigation depending on the interests of the student.
The project can be tailored to different populations of dogs (pet dogs in homes, in boarding kennels, in rehoming centres). We encourage applications from creative thinkers and our ideas include, but are not limited to, the effects of barking noise on dog welfare and human attitudes to noise from barking, particularly among people living near to kennels. This could be studied by combining acoustic measurements with surveys and behavioural observations of dogs, e.g. stress-related behaviours or cognitive tests. Crucially, we could address non-acoustic factors and include both quantitative surveys as well as qualitative methods.
Novel findings would include new mitigation strategies and potentially the first evidence base for noise assessment criteria that accounts for human and dog experiences of barking noise. Finally, the project could aim to propose evidence-based interventions designed to mitigate the impact of barking noise. These could include acoustic solutions, environmental modifications, and influencing public attitudes.
The successful applicant’s research will contribute to enhanced welfare for dogs and better acoustic environments for both kennel staff and nearby communities.
- [1] H. Notley et al., ‘National Noise Attitude Survey 2012 (NNAS2012). Volume 2 – Current Attitudes to Noise’, Department for Environment and Rural Affairs, London, UK, Dec. 2014.
- [2] G. Sales, R. Hubrecht, A. Peyvandi, S. Milligan, and B. Shield, ‘Noise in dog kennelling: Is barking a welfare problem for dogs?’, Applied Animal Behaviour Science, vol. 52, no. 3–4, pp. 321–329, Apr. 1997.
- [3] P. Scheifele, D. Martin, J. G. Clark, D. Kemper, and J. Wells, “Effect of kennel noise on hearing in dogs”, American Journal of Veterinary Research, vol. 73, no. 4, pp. 482–489, Apr. 2012.
- [4] M. Basner et al., “Auditory and non-auditory effects of noise on health,” The Lancet, vol. 383, no. 9925, pp. 1325–1332, Apr. 2014.
- [5] ‘ProPG: Guidance for the Assessment and Management of Noise from Dog Kennels (DRAFT)’, Association of Noise Consultants, 2026.
Subject Areas
- Acoustics
- Psychoacoustics
- Animal Welfare
- Dog Behaviour
Required technical skills/academic qualifications/experience
- A minimum 2.1 or higher in a relevant undergraduate degree or a relevant master’s degree in acoustics, environmental science, biology, or a related discipline.
- An interest in animal behaviour and welfare is desirable. Quantitative and statistical data analysis skills are desirable.
- Basic coding/programming/signal processing skills or an interest in developing them is desirable.
- Qualitative research design and analysis skills are advantageous.
- Applicants do not need to have experience of every skill described in the project to apply. We value a willingness to learn in curious and motivated individuals.
We particularly encourage applications from women and other groups under‑represented in research, while all appointments will be made on merit.
We will offer a supportive supervisory culture, family-friendly policies and flexible working. The student will have access to research networks within Dogs Trust as well as the University of Salford.
Mode of attendance
Successful applicants are expected to register as full-time students. However, eligible UK home fees applicants may request to be considered for part-time attendance by the supervisory team.
Supervisors
Project Partners
This project is hosted at the University of Salford and supported by Dogs Trust.
