A population-level study reveals hidden patterns in resting site choice of free-ranging dogs

Abstract Rest is an essential biological activity for all animals. Urban animals encounter multiple anthropogenic disturbances while resting. Since free-ranging dogs (FRDs) have survived as a population in the Global South for centuries, they provide a unique opportunity to study adaptation to the human-dominated landscape. In a field-based study over 3 years, we documented resting behaviour and site selection in 66 dog groups (284 dogs) in India. Eleven physical parameters of the resting sites, along with biological activities such as mating and pup-rearing, season, and the time of day, affected their choice of resting sites. The frequency-rank distribution of the unique combinations of the 11 parameters followed a power-law distribution, suggesting underlying biological reasons for the observed preferences. Seven of these parameters were most consistently involved in site choice, explaining around 24% of the observations. FRDs prefer to rest near resources at the centre of their territory, where they have maximum visibility and minimal anthropogenic disturbance. They prefer concrete surfaces with low insect presence. Our results suggest that the FRDs choose resting sites that enable better resource and territory defence, foraging effectiveness, and insect avoidance. Urban planners can use these insights to reduce situations of conflict and build more inclusive urban areas.