Dogs have long been considered man's best friend. However, for many dog owners, the bond with their four-legged friends goes beyond mere friendship. It resembles that of a parent and child. The emotional connection, care, shared activities, and communication between dogs and their owners often mirror those found in parent-child relationships. Per a new survey, eighty-five percent of dog owners consider their pooch their child. In Total Vet's survey of 400 Millennial women who don't want children, 70% of those who have pets consider their dog as their child. In this piece, we explore six signs that indicate your dog is a cherished member of your family, akin to a child.
1. Your dog's schedule dictates your life
A clear sign your pooch is your kid is when your schedule becomes a slave to theirs. Because dogs thrive off routine and structure, it is no surprise that many dog owners tailor their entire day to make sure that their pet's needs are being met. And every minute during your day (walks, meals, bathroom breaks, play times) may be scheduled around this to keep your dog happier and comfortable. This level of dedication and commitment is similar to that of a parent to a child, as you always want the best for your fur-child, above anything else. This relationship creates a bond between owner and pet and is what makes it feel to so many that, for them, their dog is their child.
2. You celebrate your dog's milestones
I think anyone who celebrates their dog's milestones will agree that their furry pal holds the same importance in their life as say, a kid. Just like proud parents celebrate milestones in the life of their offspring, people who see dogs as children will be excited to actually celebrate memorable events in the life of their pet. Whether it is celebrating their adoption day, throwing them a birthday party with toys and treats, or hanging their obedience training diploma, those are indicators of deep emotional ties and parental pride towards one's pet. This behavior demonstrates a relationship of love, care, and reciprocal emotional investment much like parent-child relationships.
3. Your phone is filled with dog photos and videos
It is common for pet owners to view their dogs as their children. If your phone is replete with photos and videos of your dog, it is a pretty clear indicator that you see them as your child. These antics are a testament to the love and relationship that you and your dog share with each other – just like how parents would show off pictures of their children.
Photographing these moments translates into the love, pride, and happiness you have toward your dogs. In addition to that, it drives home the fact that your pup is not just a pet, but part of the family. This further attunes us to the important and present role dogs have in our lives.
According to the Daily Mail, UK pet owners take 100 photos of their dogs every month, on average. Per the research, owners of Poodle dogs are more photo-obsessed than Chihuahua and Border Terrier owners.
4. You spare no expense for your dog's comfort
Another sign that your dog is not just a pet but a child to you is when you spend as much money as possible on their comfort. Be it quality dog food and treats, expensive bedding, or even the best vet services; all you want is the best for your four-legged friend. You do not hesitate to shell out funds to take care of your canine friend’s necessary comforts. Plus, you show the kind of commitment and attention that only a parent can give to a child. In fact, you consider it your foremost duty to see to it that your dog is happy and in good shape. Out of 2,000 American dog owners surveyed, four in five admitted to sparing no expense when it comes to their furry companions. A survey by Forbes found that 51% of Ohio dog owners were willing to live on a tighter budget to afford their dogs’ expenses.
5. You feel guilty when you leave your dog home alone
If you feel guilty anytime you leave your dog home alone, it is a sign that you view them as your child. While you are away, you worry that your pooch is sad or their needs aren't being met. This feeling is a sign that you care deeply about your dog. You experience guilt because you love and care for your dog as you would a human child. The guilt you feel is totally understandable and you're not alone. Out of 2,000 dog owners surveyed, 80% admitted to feeling guilty when they leave their pets alone at home. Besides, leaving your dog alone for long periods of time can cause them to develop separation anxiety. So, if you find yourself worrying whenever you leave your dog alone at home, it's a sign that you see them as your baby.
6. You would consider leaving your job for your dog
According to a new survey, virtually one in ten dog owners have left a job to find a new one so they can better care for their dog. Of 1,800 employed pet owners surveyed, 60% admitted they would consider quitting their job if it conflicted with their ability to take care of their dog. A 2024 survey by Forbes found that 15.5% of Rhode Island dog owners were most likely to stay at a job they didn't like because it allowed them to work remotely and have a dog-friendly office. In Nevada, 8.5% of dog owners were most likely to leave a job they liked because another firm let them work remotely or had a dog-friendly office. If you would consider leaving your job to better care for your dog, it's a clear indication that the animal is more than a pet to you.
