From snuggling in bed and planning special birthdays to preparing thoughtful meals and scheduling alone time together, new research reveals that no one is more in love than a British dog owner with their cherished pooch.
An entertaining survey of 2,008 UK dog owners revealed that more than a third ‘trusted’ their dog more than their partners or spouses, stating they would be more inclined to confide or ‘tell all’ to their dog.
The new data, provided by leading pet treat Peamutt Butter, discovered that when it comes to the ‘pawfect’ love story, over half of those surveyed said they would rather spend time with their furry friend than go on dates to meet a potential new love interest.
More surprisingly, around a third (36%) admitted they had ‘ghosted’ people to spend time with their dog.
It’s disheartening news for those already in relationships; the data reveals there are three individuals in your relationship. One in ten dog owners surveyed confessed they kick their partner or spouse out of bed for their dog, with a similar number allowing their dog to call ‘shotgun’ ahead of their significant other on long car journeys.
Showering man’s best friend with gifts for birthdays, one in five Brits (19%) said they spend more on their dog’s presents than on their partner’s, with 58% spending as much as £100 to celebrate the annual milestone.
Counsellor and relationship expert, Georgina Sturmer, said: “It’s no surprise to learn that our furry friends take centre stage; in the stress and strain of everyday life, our dogs offer us something special.
“In therapy, we talk about three core conditions: unconditional positive regard, empathy and authenticity. Our dogs are role models for this. They offer us that sense of unconditional love and they walk alongside us in all of life’s ups and downs. And they are genuine and authentic in everything that they do. When we look at it this way, it’s easy to understand why we find our connection with our pets to be so rewarding and enjoyable – and our focus.”
She added: “Dogs also have an innate ability to seek happiness in the simple pleasures of life. Eating, sleeping, walking, enjoying nature. They keep us grounded with what’s really important.”
Have you ever had a dog-mad friend stand you up at the last minute? Well, 43% admitted they often cancel on their human friends in favour of spending time with their canine pals. And 29% of people said they had stopped spending time with friends and family who don’t like their dog.
Completely smitten and utterly dog-crazy, of the 2,008 people surveyed by Peamutt Butter, 69 had held a baby shower for their puppy. And 150 people confessed to wearing matching outfits, such as coats, sunglasses, or jumpers with their dog.
Sally Addenbrook, brand marketing manager from Peamutt Butter, said: “When we created Peamutt Butter, we made it because we believed our dogs were missing out on the treat of peanut butter. And every dog-mad pet owner wants to give their dogs the very best.
“We wanted something that was made solely for dogs and could be spread on their toys or lick mats, to enrich and calm them and to help build a stronger bond between human and dog.”
Dating your dog, Brits name the top 10 hot topics they discuss with their canine pal:
- What they are both having for lunch (33%)
- Problems and troubles (30%)
- To-do list (29%)
- Spouse/Partner (22%)
- Holidays (18%)
- The news or current affairs (16%)
- The neighbours (14%)
- Dating / Love Life (11%)
- Work boss (9%)
- Politics (6%)