Urban Space Perception through Human-Dog Walking Activities - A Photovoice Study -

Purpose: This study investigates how humans and companion dogs perceive and navigate urban spaces during their daily walking activities, applying a more-than-human urban geography framework to understand interspecies relationships in Seoul, Korea where one-third of households own pets despite limited pet-friendly infrastructure. Method: Using photovoice methodology, seven dog owners in Seoul participated in a two-month qualitative study. Participants captured photographs during routine walks based on predetermined themes and engaged in focus group interviews using the PHOTO technique. Data were analyzed through ATLAS.ti software using open, axial, and selective coding processes to identify patterns in spatial perception and route selection. Result: Three primary factors influence urban space perception: (1) spatial factors, including preferences for natural elements and avoidance of narrow streets and harmful pavement materials; (2) social factors, encompassing spontaneous community formation among dog owners and conflicts with non-pet owners leading to self-stigmatization; and (3) psychological factors, particularly safety perception driving late-night walking preferences. Participants developed implicit social protocols, including leash length adjustment and temporal-spatial negotiations. The study reveals that human-dog pairs function as hybrid actors engaging in continuous interspecies decision-making, challenging anthropocentric urban planning. Findings emphasize the need for inclusive neighborhood environment improvements beyond dedicated pet facilities, suggesting microlevel design interventions in everyday urban spaces.