Over half of dog owners consider their pooch one of the 'locals' in their area
More than two-thirds of dog owners (67%) consider their beloved pooch to be a part of the family – and 54% even view their pet as one of the “locals” in the area where they live.
A poll of 2,000 adults, who have a canine companion, found that almost a fifth (18%) claim their pup is their best friend – with 51% even giving them a “human” name, such as Bob or Phil.
But for many, this “humanising” way of thinking of their pet goes a step further – as 41% believe their dog even responds to certain dialects more than others. The research, carried out by Yorkshire-based, natural dog food brand, Harringtons, explored some of the top reasons why dog owners love God's Own Country, Yorkshire.
It comes as almost a fifth of dog owners say their pet pooch is their best friend (PinPep)Some of the county's top qualities were named as its scenery (56%), friendly people (42%), culture (33%), pubs (28%), and food (23%). And the celebration of Yorkshire was marked by a Yorkshire Embassy for dogs in London, at Six Park Place on the outskirts of Green Park – where pups were presented with an edible passport, and tucked into a dog-friendly Yorkshire pudding, filled with fresh meat and vegetables.
There was a treat for owners, too – with free Yorkshire beers and hearty canapés alongside TV’s The Yorkshire Vet, Peter Wright, and “Ambassa-dog” Yorkshire Terry, the Yorkshire Terrier.
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A spokesman for Harringtons said: “Here in Yorkshire, we are rightly famous for our honest straight-talking, and our short arms and long pockets. We are delighted to share that Yorkshire authenticity and great value with dogs from all over the UK, as part of our mission to make natural, wholesome food affordable for all.”
The study also found that just over four in ten owners (42%) reckon their dog has a similar personality to theirs, as 36% say their faithful friend is “always” with them.
Because dogs are such valued family members deserving of great nutrition like us, just under half (49%) say food must always be of the highest quality for their pup. But despite good intentions, only 70% believe they are currently giving their dog the best possible diet. The economic crisis continues to take a toll, with cost the biggest barrier to better nutrition, according to over half of owners (54%).
However, dog owners are aware of what makes a nutritious diet – with 47% agreeing a high percentage of meat content indicates high-quality dog food, along with containing fresh vegetables (31%). Peter Wright, vet for Harringtons, added: “There’s a real trend for owners to “humanise” their pets, loving them as they would a relative or friend – and even seeing them as part of the community.
“Owners want nothing but the best for their beloved dogs – with freshly-prepared meat, vegetables, and gravy (ideally with recognisable ingredients) in every bite seen as the key to giving them a happy, healthy life. I want to reassure all pet owners, including those rightly worried about money, that quality pet nutrition needn’t cost the earth. Dogs deserve, and can enjoy, posh nosh at a proper price.”
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