The population of companion dogs continues to grow worldwide. Frequently showcased by mainstream media, owning a dog is generally seen as a factor that improves human life, offering companionship and numerous health benefits, particularly by boosting well-being. But are dogs really the key to better health and a happier life? A recent study from Eötvös Loránd University sheds light on the multiple costs and benefits associated with dog ownership, revealing emotional, physical, and financial aspects that are often overlooked.
These findings highlight the commitments and responsibilities involved in owning a dog, which can be both a source of joy and a burden, as well as the importance of making an informed adoption choice.
A study on the benefits and hidden costs of dog adoption
The figures are striking: 65.1 million households in the United States and 104 million in Europe own at least one dog. While most prospective owners imagine long morning walks and endless cuddles, they rarely consider the full implications of having a canine companion. A new study, however, provides insight into both sides of this reality. A team of researchers from ELTE Eötvös Loránd University in Hungary sought to understand what happens when humans share their lives with a dog. To do this, they surveyed 246 Hungarian dog owners and asked them to assess various aspects, ranging from veterinary bills to emotional bonds. Their conclusions challenge some common assumptions about pet ownership.
Laura Gillet, the lead author of this study and a PhD candidate in the Ethology Department, and her team identified three main dimensions in the human-dog relationship: the positive aspects (emotional, physical, and social benefits), the challenges (negative emotions and practical difficulties) and the engagement factor (daily responsibilities and routine changes).
Notably, this study published in Scientific Reports combined two approaches to obtain an overall view. First, participants evaluated 33 statements about dog ownership on a scale from very negative (-3) to very positive (+3). These statements covered topics such as “Dogs can illuminate people’s lives” and “Dogs can cause property damage.” Then, the owners shared their personal experiences about the greatest joys and the biggest challenges they encounter with their animals. The results show a mixed picture where both advantages and challenges are prominent.
A large number of advantages…
The study highlights several benefits linked to dog ownership. Owners gave the highest rating to the idea that dogs illuminate people’s lives with an average of 2.78, reflecting a strong belief that dogs enhance human well-being. About 61% of participants mentioned the deep, meaningful bonds they develop with their animals, viewing them as unwavering support in tough times. Dogs were also described as loyal, honest, and providing unconditional love by the participants.
About 31% of owners also noted that dogs improve their daily lives by promoting physical activity, outdoor adventures, and a structured routine. They reported becoming more active and developing better daily habits thanks to their four-legged companions. “Dogs are valuable social partners,” says Eniko Kubinyi, director of the Ethology Department at ELTE. “They bring stability, structure, and companionship to our lives.”
… but also drawbacks
However, while the positive aspects are substantial, the study also highlights notable challenges. The financial cost, especially veterinary expenses, food, and other necessities, is a major concern for 95% of respondents.
Nevertheless, as in the film Marley & Me, the emotional pain tied to dogs’ relatively short lifespans is the most frequently cited problem. Owners rated this aspect as the biggest drawback with an average of -1.67. Many participants also emphasized the emotional burden of caring for aging dogs, noting that behavioral or medical issues can generate stress, worry, and guilt. The study clearly shows that challenges also included caring for sick or aging animals as well as limitations on travel and social activities.
Daily engagement, including walks, training, and care, constitutes another challenge, particularly when it disrupts routines or affects sleep. “The responsibilities tied to dog ownership can be seen both as a source of joy and as a constraint,” concludes Laura Gillet. “This largely depends on the owner’s perspective and circumstances.”
So, should you adopt a dog?
While owning a dog is not always a pleasant experience, the majority of participants believed that the benefits outweighed the drawbacks. Overall, owners indeed gave higher positive scores to the beneficial aspects than to the negative ones. More precisely, on average, positive statements scored +2.06, while negative statements were rated at -0.66. According to the researchers, this tilts the balance in favor of dog ownership.
However, Ms. Gillet emphasizes that it is difficult for science to determine whether dogs are broadly advantageous for the majority of people. She adds: “What dogs bring to our lives is not always easily measurable. For example, in our study, some owners noted that their dogs contributed to their personal growth and gave them a sense of purpose in life, which is difficult to quantify.” The researcher states: “For the good of dogs and humans, I would say that owning an animal is a good thing for anyone willing to take on the responsibilities involved.”
Ultimately, this study underscores the importance of understanding and considering both the positive and negative aspects of dog ownership. Informing future owners about these realities could enable more thoughtful and better-prepared adoption choices, which would in turn improve the well-being of humans and their animals. The work also highlights the complexity of owning a pet and encourages further research. The authors are currently conducting a new study to deepen the understanding of the advantages and disadvantages associated with dog ownership. If you understand English, you can participate in these studies by completing the online questionnaire.
