North West residents prioritise their dogs more than themselves
But new charity report reveals one common habit that could be undermining canine wellbeing.
New research reveals that the vast majority of North West owners prioritise their pets’ health and wellbeing over their own – and that 96% describe their dog as an integral part of the family.
Nearly three quarters (71%) say they take more steps to support their dog’s general health than their own, with over one third(34%)strongly agreeing with this statement. Younger owners are especially diligent, with 72% of Gen Z and 68% of Millennials taking their dogs for routine vet check-ups every six months. Among Black, Black British, Caribbean or African dog owners, this rises to an impressive 88%.
The findings come as Dogs Trust publishes its Happy Place Index, a detailed look at the habits and routines that contribute to canine happiness. The report uncovers what truly makes Britain’s dogs happiest, highlighting the deep affection owners feel for their pets while uncovering one common habit that could be quietly undermining canine wellbeing.
The study – which polled 5,002 dog owners across the UK, including 657 from the North West – found that, on average, dogs in the UK are being left alone for around five hours at a time: exceeding the Dogs Trust recommended maximum of four hours.
The charity warns that leaving dogs alone for long stretches can trigger separation anxiety – manifesting in behaviours like whining, pacing, drooling or destructive chewing – and stresses that teaching them gradually that it’s okay to be home alone is key to their emotional wellbeing. However, the guidance around length of time remains important in nurturing their independence.
Small adjustments such as shortening absences, arranging midday check-ins or incorporating trusted dog walkers could significantly improve overall canine welfare.
In fact, the North West’s commitment to welfare is extremely strong: owners are providing high levels of care, companionship and mental stimulation, and many are putting their dogs’ needs ahead of their own, and dogs have certainly become embedded in their owners’ social lives, too.
Two thirds of North West residents (66%) admit to cancelling plans simply because they preferred to stay at home with their dog, whilst more than half (57%) regularly bring their dog along to meet-ups with friends or family. Another 46% make an effort to visit dog-friendly pubs to ensure their pets can be included (so long as they want to be there!).
Professor Mark Rowlands, philosopher and author of The Happiness of Dogs, analysed the findings. He says the results reveal both the emotional intelligence of dogs and the depth of the human–animal bond.
Rowlands comments: “Dogs have an extraordinary capacity for joy. When they are provided with safety, comfort, companionship and stimulation, they will do far more with those ingredients than we are capable of as humans. But they are also sensitive to loneliness and changes in routine, so consistency from owners is vital”.
One of the most encouraging findings in the Happy Place Index is the level of emotional care owners provide. Over half of North West residents (53%) provide mental stimulation or enrichment at least once a day, such as puzzle toys, training games or new walking routes. Over a quarter (28%) say they provide enrichment multiple times a day with Baby Boomers leading the way – 43% of this group offer mental stimulation several times daily.
The charity hopes the research will prompt owners to reflect on their everyday habits and consider small steps to enhance their dogs’ happiness – whether by shortening periods spent alone, maintaining regular winter walks or finding simple ways to provide mental enrichment at home.
As the festive season approaches and routines begin to shift, Dogs Trust is encouraging owners to embrace more quality time with their dogs. After all, for most dogs the formula for happiness is remarkably simple: being close to the humans they love.