Owners frequently select dog breeds that reflect their personalities, according to a recent study by the dog group The Kennel Club.
The study, which involved 1,500 current and former dog owners, examined the temperaments of 16 popular breeds in comparison to the owners.
Bill Lambert, spokesperson for The Kennel Club said: “It appears that we can often tell a lot about a person from the type of dog that they own.”
“Each breed has distinct characteristics, traits and care needs, which helps would-be owners understand more about whether they might be a good fit for them. It is quite striking to see how many people unconsciously select dog breeds with personalities that match their own character, showing that birds of a feather really do flock together.”
According to the research, owners tend to choose dog breeds that are compatible with their personalities and lifestyles. For example, because the Jack Russell breed values “companionship, and also have a strong desire to work,” it is well known that those who own Jack Russell Terriers tend to be more loyal individuals.
The gentle, easy-going nature that Cocker Spaniels are known for having was also observed in the owners surveyed. Cocker Spaniels make wonderful family-oriented pets. Similar to their furry bundles of joy, which are renowned for being even-tempered, intelligent, and frequently sporting a wide smile, the owners of Golden retrievers who were surveyed tended to be more emotionally stable, happy, and positive.
There were many more breeds that displayed this pattern. Staffordshire bull terrier owners were discovered to be devoted and reliable, while border terrier owners were found to be charming and vivacious. Miniature Schnauzers are typically paired with the most organized owners who like to follow the rules.
Lambert added, “It is also shocking to see how many people say that they choose with their hearts, not their heads, when finding a pet, and how many admit they can’t provide for all their dog’s needs.”
He did point out that many dog owners acknowledged they picked a dog because of its appearance or personality even though its breed didn’t quite fit their way of life. 50 percent of respondents to the survey claimed they couldn’t provide for all of their dog’s needs.
