'Heroic' dogs have a 'sixth sense' for their owners' feelings, say Brits
A survey of 2,000 dog owners found that dogs have a superhero impact on their owners' lives - including the ability to know when food has been dropped or bags of treats have been opened from rooms away.
Dog owners reckon their furry friends have a 'sixth sense' for their emotions, with nearly half saying their pets have responded to their feelings before they've even shown any outward signs.
A survey of 2,000 dog owners revealed dogs play a significant role in providing comfort when needed, most commonly by lying next to their owners. Nearly half of the respondents said their pet follows them around the house when they're feeling down, while four in ten found the distraction of their pup enough to alter their mood. A third of pet owners even hailed their dog as their 'hero'.
Mariana Coronel, director for PEDIGREE, which commissioned the study as part of its partnership with DC Studio's new Superman movie, said: "Dogs have a superhero impact on our lives and some of them show hero powers."
"Whether they're lifting our moods, making us laugh, or simply lying quietly by our side, their strength – emotional or otherwise – can completely transform how we feel at home."
The research also discovered that owners believe their dogs possess 'powers', such as knowing when food has been dropped or treat bags have been opened from rooms away.
One in five owners humorously claimed their dog has the power to locate the only muddy puddle within a 10-mile radius during walks. Meanwhile, other dogs possess a 'Tail of Destruction', capable of knocking over mugs, toddlers, and wine glasses with a single wag.
For 21 per cent, their pets have one weakness - the vacuum. However, according to figures from OnePoll.com, the most common fear among pets is fireworks.
Despite the nation's affection and loyalty towards dogs, Mars Petcare's State of Pet Homelessness Index reveals that an estimated 63,000 dogs are still housed in animal charity centres across the UK, waiting for someone to recognise their potential.
PEDIGREE is urging potential pet parents to look beyond stereotypes and find their next hero in a local shelter.
The spokesperson added: "Our furry friends are an essential part of everyday life, and we often don't realise just how heroic they are.
"Not all heroes wear capes – some have wagging tails."