Pooch perfect: how our nation of new dog owners is changing the face of society 

A survey from Legal and General reveals a staggering 40% of Brits became dog owners during lockdown. The reasons for becoming a dog owner are manifold, and 71% of those who got a dog during lockdown decided to do so instead of having a baby. More than a quarter (27%) said that having a pooch means they no longer want a family.  

But what does this mean for Brits, business, work and leisure time as we’re being urged to return to working from work (WFW)? 

For those Brits back in the workplace on a regular basis, offices and co-working spaces are becoming more dog-friendly, and an army of doggy-support services and businesses are springing up across the land. 

However, the cost of doggy day care for working pet owners comes as a shock to many. With the average daily dog walk coming in at £11.25, and doggy day care costing upwards of £25, going back to work with a dog in tow will make a big dent on disposable income.  

The poll goes on to report that 72% of Brits put off having children during the pandemic. As a result, how we spend our leisure time is changing. It seems we’re shifting from baby-focused free time to contented canine living.

The survey continued by polling Brits to find out the extent of our new four-legged friend obsession and identified the UK’s most and least dog-loving regions since the onset of the pandemic. 

LGI Direct Managing Director Paula Llewellyn commented:   “As we navigate our way back to a more stable way of living, working and relaxing, it’s inevitable that certain elements of the last couple of years will leave a lasting impact. What surprised us most from our research was that almost three quarters of Brits decided to get a dog instead of having a child.  

“Our cities and lifestyles are changing to accommodate this, and we’re seeing brand new dog-related micro industries appear: new products and services are springing up, jostling for position with historically more child-focused businesses.” 

Slowly but surely, what we’d come to understand as “normal” pre-pandemic life seems to be returning, albeit in a slightly different way. It appears that families have taken stock of what’s important to them. We all need to feel secure to thrive, and one way to protect those closest to you against life’s uncertainties is to provide life insurance as a financial back up if you’re no longer around.” 

Visit Legal and General to find out more.