A study released to celebrate World Friendship Day (30 July) has revealed that dogs really are a man and women’s best friend.
The study of 1,000 pet owners commissioned by raw and raw inspired pet food experts, True Instinct has revealed that almost half (47%) of the nation class their dog as their best friend, over partners, sibling and human friends.
In fact, 64% of people have actively seen their beloved dog form a special friendship with them and a further 33% have seen their pooch form a bond with another human being – showing that dogs really do love us humans, as much as we love them.
According to the research, the top trait in our four-legged friends is that they are always happy to see us (31%), followed by the fact that they are fun to be around (18%).
A dogs’ dependability was also cited as one of their top characteristics (17%), as well as them being good listeners (13%) and that they don’t judge their owners.
The survey also revealed the nation’s favourite activities to do with their furry best friend with going for a walk at the top of the list (46%), followed by cuddling our pooches (21%).
Our least favorite activity to do with our canine best friends was revealed as eating with them (2%). The top six activities are:
- Going for a walk (46%)
- Cuddling them (21%)
- Finding new places to explore (10%)
- Playing games with them (10%)
- Watching TV together (9%)
- Eating with them (2%)
Melanie Sainsbury, Veterinary Education Manager at True Instinct ad Natures Menu, said: “This World Friendship Day, we wanted to highlight how pets can actually be our best friends, sometimes even more so than humans. We weren’t surprised that nearly half of the nation classes their dog as their best friend ahead of parents, partners, siblings and human friends.
“Dogs have been genetically manipulated since we domesticated them thousands of years ago to socialise easily and show friendliness. Unless we show unkindness to them or hostile signs, a dog will attempt to establish a good –matured relationship.
“With the survey revealing that a dog is really a man or woman’s best friend, it’s important we take great care of them and look after them properly. A nutritional complete diet packed full of goodness, combined with lots of exercise and cuddles will help ensure that they are healthy and happy.”
