Dogs May Have Richer Social Lives Than Their Owners, Survey Finds

A new survey suggests Americas dogs might be living more socially fulfilling lives than their humans.

According to a poll of 2,000 U.S. dog owners, 63% believe their dogs spend more time with their canine friends than the owners do with their own human friends.

Commissioned by dog day care and boarding franchise Camp Bow Wow and conducted by Talker Research, the survey explored the social dynamics of dogs and their role in enhancing both canine and human wellbeing. It found that more than half of dog parents (54%) believe their dogs have their own friend groups, and 69% say their pet even has a best friend.

Eight in ten respondents reported that their dogs seem “very” happy when spending time with other dogs, and nearly as many (69%) believe their pets should be able to see their friends even more often.

“We all need friends, and that includes our dogs. It’s clear to see how socialization and friendship can improve the quality of life for dogs,” said Camp Bow Wows Animal Health and Behavioral Expert Erin Askeland, M.Sc., CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA. “Dogs are just like us — being able to see other dogs and interact with them on a regular basis does so much good for their mental and emotional wellbeing, and it makes their parents happier, too.”

Socialization is widely recognized by pet owners as an essential part of a dogs development. Ninety-one percent said its important that their dog be socialized, and 83% reported feeling a “sense of accomplishment” when their pet can successfully make friends. Additionally, 79% said that when their dog is able to socialize, both pet and owner feel like theyre “living their best lives.”

Among owners who said their dog has its own friends, the most commonly cited benefits of socialization include increased happiness (55%), improved social skills (48%), reduced loneliness (48%), better wellbeing (46%), and higher quality of life (45%).

While some dogs are naturally outgoing — with 71% of owners describing their pets as “extremely” or “significantly” social — Askeland noted that social preferences vary.

“Not every dog is a social butterfly. Some prefer quiet companionship, a smaller circle of canine friends, or just their human family, and thats perfectly okay. Respecting each dogs personality is key to helping them thrive,” she said.

The study also looked at dog daycare habits. Thirty-six percent of dog owners reported taking their pets to daycare regularly — averaging four visits per month. Of those who go at least three times monthly, 92% said they enjoy seeing their dog make friends. Upon arriving at daycare, dogs are most likely to run toward a best friend (30%), a familiar group (25%), or the caretakers themselves (24%). Over half (52%) of pet parents believe daycare can improve their dogs social skills.

“Places like dog daycares can play a vital role in facilitating socialization,” Askeland said. “Much like how we humans have our own places to socialize with our friends, dogs deserve to have a place that caters to them, like a high-quality dog daycare, and allows them to be themselves with their friends.”

The findings point to an evolving understanding of canine wellbeing — one where social connection is not just a bonus, but a core part of a happy dogs life.