A new study has found something every dog lover wants to know and that is there are three different kinds of dog owners in the world. Whether you are a loyal companion, an indulgent pet parent, or more of an independent dog owner, this research will give insight into how we all connect with our furry friends. The study does not only indicate how our personalities influence the way we treat and care for our dogs but also reveals surprising insights into the evolving trends of pet ownership. So, which type of dog owner are you? Are you the hands-on type, or do you prefer a more relaxed relationship with your pet? Take a closer look to discover where you fit in and what your dog’s relationship with you is saying about your personality.
Types of dog owners and how they care for their pets
PhD student Laura Gillet of Eötvös Loránd University in Hungary, led a study that aimed to look at how the role of dogs has evolved in Western societies. After discovering data suggesting that many owners considered their dogs more important than people, Gillet and her team sought to know what kind of difference this makes to the care they receive. They questioned 790 Hungarian dog owners, hoping to understand how the perception of dogs as family members or children might affect their behavior towards them. The researchers speculated that overly protective owners could lead to behavioral issues such as separation anxiety. However, their results showed variations in the way owners care for their dogs but not in behavioral issues. The study identified three distinct types of dog owners based on the role they perceive their pets to play in their lives.
Different types of dog owners
The dog parent
If you consider yourself a “dog parent,” you probably regard your dog as much more than a pet; it is a close companion, family member, or even your “fur baby.” For you, the bond with your dog might outweigh some human connections, and having a dog isn’t about practicality. Instead, their role is centered on providing comfort and companionship, and they probably share your indoor living space.
This category mainly consists of young owners such as Millennials and Gen Z, which comprises first-time dog owners. They might be hesitant to allow their dogs to be off-leash and, in some cases, have inconsistent training. Nevertheless, they are deep lovers of their dogs and consider them as a family.
The companion
As a “companion” dog owner, it is likely you consider your dog to be such a dear companion and member of the family; however, still, you attach more practicality to the relationship, unlike those persons who treat dogs as children or children themselves with whom they love to play along. Companion owners are usually a bit older, and they will spend a minute less time around their pets. However, you probably do a great job of setting boundaries and maintaining consistent training, so your dog feels safe and well-guided. This balanced approach reflects your understanding of your dog’s needs, blending affection with structure. Your relationship thrives on mutual trust and respect, making your dog a significant part of your life without overwhelming it.This group commonly owns breeds such as the Mudi, English Cocker Spaniel, Labrador Retriever, Boxer, and German Shepherd.
The companion and friend
Being a dual-status dog owner, your pet is both a member of the family and a working assistant. You may see your pet as a combination of an irreplaceable friend, a loyal coworker, and even a child. Dogs in this status often possess practical functions, like helping in doing jobs, guard functions, or activities like dog sport.
Psychologist Laura Gillet says fulfilling more than one status enhances bonding between owner and dog. If you are of the dual status type, there is a probability that you tend to spend many hours with your dog, keeping him well-trained as well as engendering faith. Some common breeds in this group include Border Collies, Belgian Shepherds, Labradors, German Shepherds, and Vizslas-very bright dogs and easily trainable.
How is the research helpful for dog owners?
This research shines a light on the unique ways humans bond with their dogs, offering a glimpse into how these relationships are shaped. But what does your type of dog ownership mean for you and your pup? That question remains unanswered. According to psychologist Laura Gillet, this study is just the beginning foundation for future research to explore how these roles affect both canine and human well being.
Gillet believes that future studies should look at anthropomorphism, the tendency to attribute human traits to animals, to understand its impact on dog behavior and welfare. She also hopes to expand the research globally, examining cultural differences in dog ownership by taking into account differences in age, parenting status, and societal trends.
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