Dr Michael laughing dog post 1 pic 1[5] copy-47cbc00f

Laughing Dog Food Reveals New Research On How To Keep Your Dog Happy & Healthy

Lincolnshire pet food brand, Laughing Dog, has revealed that the average pup owner snaps up to 101 pics a year of their four-legged friends - more than they take of their mum and dad, and even their own children, according to new research. In fact, it’s not just photography where owners are seeing their dogs as key members of the family, with 22 percent of owners secretly admitting they'd like to set their dog a place at the dinner table but worry it’s not socially acceptable. The East Midlands study also found that 36 percent of the 1000 dog-owners polled claimed they actually communicate better with their dog than they do with their other half, with 39 percent saying they can read their pets’ moods better than their partner’s.

A whopping quarter of owners admit they love watching their dog eat (26 percent), with half saying it gives them pleasure to see their dog enjoy their food. A cheeky 13 percent have already begged their family to let their pooch sit with them at the table but have ultimately been turned down.

Veterinary expert Dr Michael Lazaris, who is working with British dog food brand Laughing Dog on the campaign said:  "This Laughing Dog research has proven more and more people treat their dog as an important member of the family too, almost as much as their own siblings(!), The data revealed that 54 percent insist on feeding their canine companion only the very best natural food they can buy, with 38 percent emphasising the importance of meals made with natural ingredients. British dog owners really do prioritise their pet’s and that health and happiness.”

And so close is the bond between owner and dog that one third of owners claim they can tell when their furry friend is feeling upset or anxious, with further findings revealing:

  • 31 percent can tell EXACTLY what their hound is thinking through seeing their facial expressions.
  • A further four in 10 insist their dog laughs a lot in their daily lives (42 percent), with when they see their food being prepared the most likely time to do so (39 percent).
  • Meanwhile 35 percent say their dog gets the giggles when their owner gives them kisses and cuddles, while 34 percent insist it’s when they’re out on a walk and their pooch runs back to them that they love to laugh.

The survey also revealed how two thirds of Brits have become even closer to their four-legged friends during challenging times within the last 12 months (66 percent).

In fact, 47 percent of dog owners are dreading having to return to working in an office full time with the prospect of leaving their pets home alone, with one third saying they worry they will both suffer from separation anxiety.

It’s no surprise that 32 percent have found their furry friend to be a lifeline over the last twelve months, with 24 percent adding that caring for their dog has given them something to focus on.

Meanwhile 69 percent agree that dogs can help their owners cope better with problems like depression and anxiety.

Dr Lazaris goes on to comment: “What’s equally as extraordinary is how the bond with our dogs has strengthened whilst we’ve been at home during lockdown, with 66% of owners saying they now feel closer to their beloved pets. This shows us how dogs can be an important lifeline when people are suffering with their mental health, something that has become far more prevalent in the past 12 months. As much as we want the absolute best for our furry companions, they clearly want the same for us, which is why feeding them a healthy diet is so important!"

Dr Lazaris has teamed up with Laughing Dog, premium dog food brand, to provide advice on ensuring your dog remains happy and healthy as we continue to tackle 2021. Having created top tips on every element of pet happiness, Dr Michael shares his advice on everything from diet and exercise to fun and games to make sure your dog is living its best life. For more information, go to www.laughingdogfood.com/