Your Dog Might Be Doing More for Your Happiness Than Your Partner, And Science Backs It Up
Have you ever had one of those days where nothing goes right… Then your dog does that silly head tilt, and your whole mood lifts? Or does your cat purr like a tiny engine, and suddenly, the world seems manageable again?
Well, you’re not imagining it. A new study from researchers at the University of Kent has found that owning a pet, yes, even your biscuit-stealing Labrador, can boost your life satisfaction as much as getting married or landing a £70,000 raise.
Let that sink in. Your dog might literally be more valuable than your job. Or your husband. Or both.
So What Did They Discover?
Using data from more than 2,500 UK households, the researchers compared people’s happiness levels across different life situations. They looked at income, relationships, personality traits, and, of course, pet ownership.
The verdict? People who owned a cat or dog consistently reported higher satisfaction with life. In fact, the difference was so significant, it was on par with the joy people experience after tying the knot or receiving a major salary bump.
Not bad for someone who can’t talk and thinks the vacuum cleaner is evil.
Okay, But Is It Just That Happy People Get Pets?
That’s a fair question—and the scientists thought of it too.
To rule out the idea that naturally upbeat people are just more likely to adopt pets, they used clever statistical tools (don’t worry, we won’t get too nerdy here). The takeaway? It’s not just that happy people own pets—it’s that pets actually make people happier.
They even factored in things like personality and social life. The pet effect still stood strong.
Dog People, Cat People—You’re All Winning
If you’re expecting a dramatic showdown between dog lovers and cat fans… we hate to disappoint you.
Dog owners were generally more outgoing and agreeable (we see you, extroverts at the dog park), while cat owners scored higher on creativity and openness to new ideas (classic). But both groups were happier overall compared to folks without pets.
So whether you’re into wet noses or judging stares from a feline throne, you’re doing something right.
More Than Just Companions
It’s not just about companionship. Other research has shown that pets can lower your blood pressure, reduce stress, and even cut your risk of depression. For kids, growing up with animals can lessen the chances of developing allergies later on.
And let’s be honest, there’s nothing quite like a wagging tail or a rumbling purr to make you feel like the most important person in the world.
Final Thought: Maybe It’s Time to Get a Dog (Or a Cat)
So, the next time someone asks why you spent your weekend having a picnic with your spaniel instead of going on a Tinder date.
If you decide today is the day you need more love and happiness in your life, why not try our perfect pup picker, let your lifestyle lead which breed you should think about avoiding, not which ones you think are cute but totally unsuitable.