Pampered pooches handled like VIPs as ‘helicopter owners’ spoil them rotten
Brits are going barking mad over their dogs forking out £101 a month on VIP treatment like gourmet meals, luxury beds and even spa days, a poll reveals.
Brits love to spoil their dogs and treat them like children(Image: U)
A new study has revealed the wild lengths owners will go to for their furry friends, from cooking up specially-prepared gourmet meals and splashing out on premium bedding, to booking them in for spa treatments. And it doesn’t stop there. Some owners let their dog travel in the front passenger seat – and admit they chat to them like they’re a child.
The research, which polled 1,800 dog owners, found people spend an average of £101 a month looking after their pet – with many happy to fork out £36 on a single treat. It also showed 72% believe their dog is pampered, while more owners prioritise their pet’s needs (27%) above their partner’s (15%).
The study was commissioned by free streaming service U following the launch of its new show Wagging Rights.
U has launched its new series Wagging Rights(Image: U)
A spokesperson for free streaming service said: “People look after their dog like they’re VIPs, and it’s fascinating to see just how pampered the nation’s pups have become, proving the lengths we would go to for our four-legged friends.
“For many owners, no expense is spared when it comes to keeping their dog happy, healthy and comfortable.
“From luxury dinners to luxury spa days, these findings reveal that Britain’s dogs are truly being treated like members of the family.”
Nearly half (44%) have even put on a TV programme just for their dog, while 12% admit their pet eats better quality food than they do. And one in five have become “helicopter parents” by installing pet cameras to keep an eye on their pooch when they leave the house.
The bond goes deeper than treats and walkies too. Almost half (49%) said their dog provides emotional support, and 32% believe they can communicate with each other without saying a word.
The U spokesperson added: “What stands out is just how deeply dogs are woven into family life, with many owners putting their pet’s comfort, happiness and wellbeing on a par with, or even ahead of, their own.”
Celebrities will compete against one another for the Wagging Rights trophy(Image: U)
“As our celebrities and their dogs take on a series of training challenges, the show celebrates the lovable quirks, unforgettable moments and unbreakable bonds that make dogs such an important part of our lives.”
Wagging Rights is a fresh six-part entertainment series where celebrities and their pet dogs compete in a range of dog-show challenges, from obedience and agility to scent work, all in a bid to win the Wagging Rights trophy.
Starring Rhod Gilbert, Harriet Kemsley, Kae Kurd, Sara Pascoe and Vicky Pattison, it is available to stream free on U.
Nigel Reed, celebrity dog behaviourist on the show, said, “For many owners, no expense is spared when it comes to keeping their dog happy, healthy and comfortable.
“From gourmet dinners to luxury spa days, these findings reveal that Britain’s dogs are truly being treated like members of the family.
“What stands out is just how deeply dogs are woven into family life, with many owners putting their pet’s comfort, happiness and wellbeing on a par with, or even ahead of, their own.
“Those extraordinary relationships are at the heart of the show as it celebrates the lovable quirks, memorable moments and unbreakable bonds that make our dogs such an important part of our lives.”
THE TOP 20 THINGS OWNERS DO FOR THEIR PETS:.
- Chat to them as if they’re a child
- Clean their teeth
- Frame photos of the dog and display them in my home
- Allow them to sleep in bed with me
- Plan outings around the dog e.g. only visit dog-friendly pubs
- Let the dog dictate walking routes
- Prepare meals specifically for them
- Allow my dog to sit in the front seat of the car
- Purchase pricey accessories e.g. collar
- Use pet cameras to ensure they’re alright when I’m away
- Buy them a birthday cake
- Carry them to their bed
- Invest in luxury bedding for them
- Provide skin care for them
- Spend more on their food than my own
- Update my social media with insights into the dog’s behaviour
- Regularly update friends and family about the dog’s life
- Bring the dog to all social events I attend
- Upgrade to a larger car solely for the dog
- Throw a dog birthday party
