Dogs considered as substitute children in certain aspects? Affirmative response: Yes. - Are canines superior substitutes for children?
Researchers have pointed out a growing trend in Western and East Asian societies – the increasing role pets, particularly dogs, play as companions, sometimes even replacing the role of children.
According to a study published in the "European Psychologist," adults with minimal contact with children in their daily lives are increasingly turning to pets, especially dogs, to fill the void. In Germany, where birth rates are declining, the number of households with dogs remains high. In fact, nearly one in five households includes a canine member [1].
Regarding the connection between decreasing birth rates and increased pet ownership, researchers suggest that the biological need for nurturing is being redirected to animals in the absence of human children. However, it must be noted that dogs are not considered replacements for children, but rather fill a unique role in families and individual lives [1].
The role of a family dog can vary based on life circumstances. For singles, a dog can serve as a companion or confidant. For newlyweds, a dog can be their first child. In families with young children, dogs can be playmates, while for the elderly, a dog can provide companionship during difficult times such as loneliness or the loss of a child [1].
Dogs provide a bond with their caregivers similar to the bond between infants and parents, according to Laura Gillet and Enikő Kubinyi of Eötvös Loránd University Budapest. This emotional connection may be even stronger than that with humans, as dogs require care throughout their entire lives [1].
In Germany alone, the pet care industry is thriving, with an estimated €7 billion spent on pet food and accessories in 2024 [2]. The strong emotional bond between dog owners and their pets is evident in their devoted care, often prioritizing their pets' needs above their own [2].
While dogs are considered family, surveys suggest that their owners make a clear distinction between humans and animals. In the event of a hypothetical dilemma, most respondents would choose to save a human life over a greater number of animal lives. Additionally, the likelihood of ending the relationship with a dog is higher than that of a child [1].
The relationship between dogs and their owners is also influenced by cultural factors. In American culture, pet owners often refer to themselves as "Mama" or "Papa" of their furry "child," while in other cultures, the relationship may be more distant [1][3].
Sources:[1] Gillet, Laura; Kubinyi, Enikő. (2023) "Dogs as family members: A reflection on the anthropomorphism of a pet." European Psychologist.[2] Central Association of Zoological Businesses, Germany. (2023). Pet Industry Overview. Retrieved from website[3] American Veterinary Medical Association. (2023). Understanding the Human-Animal Bond. Retrieved from website[4] The Humane Society of the United States. (2023). The Benefits of Owning a Pet. Retrieved from website[5] The New York Times. (2023). Why Millennials are Having Fewer Children. Retrieved from website
- As the role of pets, particularly dogs, evolves in households, many communities may need to revise their pet-related policies to accommodate the growing emotional significance of these animals, such as the establishment of pet-friendly workplaces or community spaces to foster a better lifestyle for pet owners.
- The rising trend of dogs being considered family members impacts various aspects of home-and-garden lifestyle, including pet-friendly garden designs and pet-specific household appliances, as pet owners prioritize their pets' comfort and needs while maintaining a home that reflects their own taste and preferences.
