Dogs Trust shares findings from the National Dog Survey, highlighting a consensus among the majority of pet owners on a particular matter, which brings an overwhelming sense of warmth.
**Article Title: Dogs Trust Highlights the Benefits of Owning a Dog and Offers Support for Struggling Pet Parents**
In a recent survey conducted by Dogs Trust, the UK's largest dog welfare charity, it was revealed that 99% of dog parents consider their furry companions as family members. This finding underscores the growing trend of dogs being integrated into family life, moving away from a work-focused role.
The survey, known as the National Dog Survey, also provided fun insights into the UK's four-legged friends. For instance, it was found that 95% of the 400,000 people surveyed believe that owning a dog is good for their mental health. Moreover, over 89% stated that their dog makes them more active, and an impressive 89% reported that their dog provides emotional support.
The survey also revealed that almost three-quarters (75%) of dog owners like to spoil their dogs, with over half (58%) of dogs having the ball as their favorite toy. A significant 54% of dogs enjoy cuddly toys as well.
However, the survey also highlighted the challenges faced by some dog owners. More than 45,000 owners contacted Dogs Trust last year to relinquish their dog, emphasizing the need for continued support. In response, Dogs Trust launched the Behavior Support Line to provide free expert advice and guidance when parents were struggling with their dogs' behavior.
In addition, Dogs Trust has taken steps to help dog parents struggling with the cost of living. They launched pet food banks in some of its rehoming centers to provide much-needed assistance.
When it comes to choosing the right breed, Dogs Trust offers guidance on adopting and caring for dogs. While they do not provide a comprehensive list of the top friendly dog breeds suitable for families, some breeds commonly recognised as family-friendly include Labrador Retrievers, Pugs, Beagles, Golden Retrievers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Bulldogs, Bichon Frises, Boxers, Cocker Spaniels, Collies, Boston Terriers, Poodles, Shih Tzus, Yorkshire Terriers, Corgis, Australian Shepherds, Labradoodles, and Chihuahuas.
Easier-to-care-for breeds include Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, Bichon Frises, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Maltese, Havanese, Poodles, Chihuahuas, Corgis, Beagles, Boxers, Cocker Spaniels, Boston Terriers, Yorkshire Terriers, Australian Shepherds (if well-trained), and Labradoodles (can be low-shedding).
The results of the National Dog Survey help Dogs Trust shape its services for both now and the future, ensuring that they continue to do all they can to support owners so their dogs can remain with them as part of the family.
- Dogs Trust reported that 99% of dog parents view their pets as family members, indicating a shift towards integrating dogs more fully into family life.
- The survey found that 95% of dog parents believe owning a dog positively impacts their mental health, demonstrating the emotional benefits of pet ownership.
- Over 89% of survey respondents stated that their dogs promote an active lifestyle, while 89% reported that their dogs provide emotional support.
- The survey showed that 75% of dog owners enjoy spoiling their pets, with 58% of dogs favoring the ball as their toy and 54% enjoying cuddly toys.
- Struggling dog parents can turn to Dogs Trust's Behavior Support Line for free expert advice and guidance when dealing with challenging dog behavior.
- In response to the cost-of-living challenges, Dogs Trust launched pet food banks at some of its rehoming centers to assist struggling pet families.
- When selecting a breed, Dogs Trust advises on adopting and caring for dogs, offering guidance on various family-friendly breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, Pugs, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
- Easier-to-care-for breeds suggested by Dogs Trust include Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shih Tzus, among others, proving that there's a suitable dog breed for every family dynamics and lifestyle.
