Shaping behaviour in the dog-human dyad through the framework of ecological dynamics: a systematized review

This is a protocol for a systematic qualitative synthesis (systematized review) Objective: Establish if the shaping of dog behaviour within the context of the dog-human dyad can be explained in the language of ecological dynamics, specifically could the behaviour/learning situations designed in 21st century studies likely be replicated in effect by use of a constraints-led approach. Primary Research Question: To what extent do published studies (≥ 01/01/2000) of dog–human (and representative) dyadic learning contexts contain sufficient task, environmental, and interactional detail to permit reinterpretation within an ecological dynamics framework? Secondary Research Question: What proportion of such studies would plausibly support the design of a constraints-led learning environment? Context and rational: The co-operative behaviour of dogs and humans when shaping behaviour and navigating the world is predominantly described in behaviourist terms which underlies industry practice. Reframing our existing understanding of this complex inter/intra-active dynamic in ecological dynamics terms potentially allows rapid improvement across the whole professional industry and adjoining fields in which dog behaviour is involved, especially with professional investment towards constraints-led approach (CLA), which is the primary tool currently used in applying an ecological framework. Review Brief: Single author will design the review protocol, and gather and conduct scoping searches and selection. A dynamic panel of guest experts (later named) will be consulted for advice throughout, and will assist in independently ensuring coherence to the review protocol throughout by triangulating data analysis. Conflict of interest: the author currently uses an ecological dynamics approach in independent professional practice. No funding sources to declare. Keywords: Ecological dynamics, Dogs, Learning, Behaviour, Skill acquisition/attunement, Embodied learning