Huge £17.8billion is set to be spent on pampering the nation’s pooches this year, with some dogs even getting bedtime stories and a dedicated space at the dining table
Brits like to pamper their pooches – it’s official
Dog owners are prioritising their pets over their partners – treating them to massages, manicures, bedtime stories and even reserving spots for them at the dining table. It’s clear who’s the Top Dog in many households, with a whopping £17.8 billion expected to be splurged on spoiling the nation’s dogs this year.
A study commissioned by pet insurance brand ManyPets unveiled the lengths pet enthusiasts will go to ensure their furry friend’s happiness. Nearly two-thirds (64%) of pet parents admitted their dog’s joy was more crucial than their own, and almost half (48%) confessed to prioritising their pet’s needs over those of their partners and children.
A staggering 86% even admitted to leaving social events early to lavish more attention on their four-legged companion. Almost a third (31%) set a place at the dining table for their pet, and 41% serve up a home-cooked meal.
Post-dinner, 43% of fortunate dogs get to lounge on their very own spot on the sofa, with 57% snuggled up in their blanket. Two-thirds (66%) of owners revealed their dogs have a dedicated bedtime routine, which includes grooming their fur (40%) and brushing their teeth (26%), followed by a soothing playlist of relaxing music (23%).
One in ten dogs will be treated to a ‘fairy tail’, and a similar number (9%) will partake in some pet yoga.
While a whopping 71% of pets have their own bed and 35% boast their own duvet, nearly a third of owners (29%) let their furry friends snuggle in with them every night. More than half (55%) allow their pets to creep under the covers at least once or twice a week.
Pets Yoga is a thing. Apparently(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
According to a poll by ManyPets, pampering is a daily ritual for 83% of the 2,000 dog owners surveyed – but it’s not just limited to cuddles and treats at home. Almost two thirds (61%) splurge up to £100 on pet grooming, including pedipaws (20%), a cut and blow dry (32%), and even massages (16%).
In contrast, only 51% spend the same amount at human hairdressers each month. Even holidays are planned with our four-legged friends in mind.
Over half (59%) of dog owners have opted for a staycation so they can bring their furry companions along, and nearly half (48%) pack a special suitcase full of doggie essentials. A lucky 18% of dogs are treated to first-class seats if they need to travel on public transport.
And why all this pampering?
Well, 88% of pet owners said they interact with their pets as they would with a human, 64% want to ensure their happiness at all times, and 61% said it was a way of strengthening the human-animal bond.
ManyPets Vet Dr Joanna Woodnutt BVM BVS MRCVS commented: “It’s brilliant to see how much the nation values their pets, and considers them part of the family. However you choose to pamper your pets, be sure to listen to them and look out for signs that they may not be enjoying themselves in order to ensure they feel relaxed, happy and comfortable at all times.”
No matter how you choose to spoil your pets, it’s crucial to pay attention to their reactions and look for signs that they might not be having a good time. This will ensure they always feel relaxed, content and comfortable.
10 pet pampering activities set to dominate households in 2025
1. Owners bathing their pets (71%)
2. Regularly buying new toys (64%)
3. Celebrating their pet’s birthday (54%)
4. Giving their pet a dedicated space on the sofa (43%)
5. Meal prepping home cooked food (41%)
6. Setting a place at the table so pets can eat as part of the family (31%)
7. Giving their pet a manicure (28%)
8. Feeding their pets by hand (19%)
9. Holding an umbrella over them to shelter them from the rain (16%)
10. Hosting a pet photoshoot (10%)