2.3. Data analyses
To assess differences between smaller and larger dogs,
participants were grouped according to dog weight. The
distribution of weights was bi-modal with a valley around
20 kg. The mean was 20.78 kg and the median 19 kg (Min.:
1.5 kg; Max.: 70 kg). Therefore, we decided to divide the
population in smaller dogs, weighing less than 20 kg
(n = 634), and larger dogs, weighing 20 kg or more (n = 627;
missing: n = 15). Group differences between continuous
characteristics of the owner or the dog were analysed using
Mann–Whitney U-tests. Nominal or ordinal items were
tested for differences between smaller and larger dogs
using chi-square tests.
In order to group the questionnaire items related to dog
behaviour, training methods, inconsistent owner behaviour
and activities with the dog to subscale scores,
principal component analyses followed by varimax rota