This study was sponsored by the American Kennel Club and focuses on the behavior, attitudes, and purchasing habits of dog owners. The study shows that dog ownership heavily influences both the lifestyle and purchasing habits of people.

Almost all survey respondents (99%) own a dog for companionship and 88% regard their dog as a family member. Additional findings include:

Lifestyle Factors

• 72% of owners say dogs enhance their own personal health.
• 51% say their dogs affect how they spend their leisure time.
• The top activity (48%) enjoyed by dog owners is a walk.
• Nearly two-thirds of dog owners fence their yards to contain their companion animals.
• 48% have owned a dog for 20 years or more.
• 4 of 10 dog owners have made arrangements for their dogs in the event they pass away before their dog does.
• 67% feel the most common drawback of dog ownership is emotion when the dog dies.

Travel Factors

• Nearly half of owners look for dog-friendly accommodations when booking travel.
• 47% consider their dog’s comfort in deciding which car to buy.

Purchasing Habits

• 50% of owners purchase rawhide bones, 34% pig parts, 26% dental hygiene chews.
• 72% of owners look for the best and highest quality dog food brands.