in a world where 65.1 million American households They share their life with at least one dog, According to a study by Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) in Hungary, a fundamental question arises: Are these furry companions really the key to a happier life, or are there nuances we often ignore?
Let’s start from a common image: the ideal dog, that companion who welcomes us with a wagging tail and offers us unconditional love. It’s no surprise that so many people want to adopt one, convinced that a dog will inevitably improve their lives. And there is some truth in this: the ELTE University study, published in Scientific Reports, found that “dogs make life happy” was the statement most valued by owners, with a score of 2.78 out of 3. In fact, more than 60% of the 246 owners surveyed spontaneously highlighted the deep relationship they develop with their pets, describing them as honest and devoted companions.
Challenges of having pets: the other side of the coin
However, Life with a dog is not just games and cuddles. Reality, as revealed by the research team led by Laura Gillet, a doctoral student in the ELTE Department of Ethology, is more complex and nuanced. Their findings confirm what many owners already sense: the human-dog relationship is a delicate dance between deep joys and considerable challenges.
For example, the economic aspect turned out to be an overwhelming concern: 95% of owners noted expenses as their biggest challenge. Vet bills, food, and other ongoing costs can significantly impact the family budget.
Furthermore, although less mentioned, The emotional exhaustion and practical challenges also weigh. Caring for a dog with health or behavioral problems can cause worry and guilt, as well as significantly disrupt your daily routine.
The triple dimension of the human-dog relationship
The study revealed 3 main dimensions in the human-dog relationship: the benefits (emotional, physical and social), the challenges (practical problems and negative emotions) and the commitment factor. The latter is particularly interesting because it divides opinions: while some owners see morning walks and daily training as a blessing that structures their lives, others consider them a burden that interrupts their routines and affects their rest.
In that sense, the reality is that having a dog can be as rewarding as it is challenging. On the one hand, 31% of owners mentioned improvements in their lifestyle thanks to more exercise and outdoor activities and 15% especially valued the connection with another species, pointing out that sharing life with a being with such different qualities For humans it is enriching.
On the other hand, we must also consider the less glamorous aspects: They can dirty the house, limit the freedom to travel and, perhaps most painfully, They have relatively short lives (This last aspect received the highest negative rating in the study, with -1.67).
A revealing fact is that the positive aspects received, on average, a much higher rating (2.06) than the negative ones (-0.66). However, researchers warn that some owners may be downplaying problems for fear of being labeled “bad owners,” underscoring the need to have a more honest and balanced conversation about what it really means to own a dog.
Responsible adoption: the importance of a conscious decision
“Bridging the gap between expectations and reality can improve the lives of both humans and dogs,” emphasizes Eniko Kubinyi, head of the Department of Ethology at ELTE. Hence, experts emphasizehe importance of adopting consciously: reflecting on available time, budget and lifestyle before adding a dog to the family can avoid friction and disappointment.
Ultimately, for most, the joys of sharing everyday life with a dog continue to outweigh the setbacks. Even so, it should not be overlooked that this decision entails an economic cost, emotional implications and adjustments to routine. The key to a satisfying and long-lasting relationship with a four-legged companion is to be well informed, honestly weigh the pros and cons, and above all, understand that this is a long-term commitment that requires constant dedication.
As the researchers suggest, the better prepared future owners are for this reality, the more satisfying the experience will be for both them and their canine companions.
Edited by Felipe Espinosa Wang with information from Eötvös Loránd University, Scientific Reports and Study Finds.
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