Evaluation of the factorial structures of the canine behavioral assessment and research questionnaire (C-BARQ) in France

This study aimed to evaluate the factorial structure of the French version of the C-BARQ by analyzing the behaviour of 246 dogs, based on responses from 248 participants, in order to confirm its potential applicability in France. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) identified 13 primary factors comprising 63 items, explaining 54.1 % of the total variance and a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) revealed a good fit with the original US model. The French version of the C-BARQ mirrors the core structure of other validated versions, confirming its cross-cultural robustness, while also highlighting certain specificities. The emergence of the combined factor "Stranger-directed aggression/fear" suggests that non-expert respondents may have difficulty distinguishing between these two dimensions. Two new factors—"Passerby-directed aggression " and "Compulsive-like behaviour"—emerged, likely reflecting the characteristics of the study sample and the inclusion of the full set of items. Other notable differences include the clustering of certain attachment-related items with those related to energy, forming a new factor labeled "Social excitability/energy," as well as the absence of the "Dog rivalry" factor due to insufficient responses. Overall, the results indicate that the French version of the C-BARQ is a valid tool for assessing canine behaviour. However, cultural, contextual, and demographic differences should be considered when interpreting the findings. This study paves the way for future research on the factors influencing perceptions of canine behaviour and on the adaptation of psychometric instruments across cultural contexts.