Dog owners spend over £760 annually on luxury items

Dog owners are splashing out more than £760-a-year on items such as cooling fans, swimming pools, designer gear and even diamond collars for their pooches.

A survey, of 1,000 owners, found many love to treat their pooches, with 47% wishing they could treat their pets more than they do.

Nearly four in 10 (39%) claim spending on their pooch’s comfort was more important than splashing out on other household expenses. 

And 26% have changed their own purchasing plans to accommodate their four-legged friends.While 53% would rather cut back on spending for themselves rather than their pet.

The research was commissioned by Shark, following the release of its FlexBreeze fan, which has donated £25,000 to Battersea to support enrichment activities for the dogs and cats in its care.

Tracey Scully, UK managing director at Shark, said: “We are passionate about improving everyday lives and that includes our beloved pets.

“That is why, we have decided to support a charity close to our hearts, Battersea, to highlight how the nation can best look after their pooch, whatever the weather.

“The research shows that many pet owners try all kinds of things to please their pets, but as Battersea reminds us, there are many ways to improve their wellbeing that we can easily do at home or that just requires a little creativity.”

Janine Pemberthy, canine behaviourist at Battersea, said: “As we celebrate rescue dogs and cats this September as part of ‘Wear Blue for Rescue’, we know that many pet owners will want to show their pets how much they care.

“However, keeping pets healthy and happy doesn’t necessarily require them to be showered with expensive gifts.

“In fact, there are plenty of cheap and cheerful things that pet owners can do with their dogs to celebrate in style whilst creating special bonding moments. 

“From exploring new surroundings together on a local beach or muddy woodland walk, to keeping them entertained with fun-filled indoor scent-based activities on a rainy or hot day.

“Come rain or shine, you don’t need to bust the budget to give your pets the enrichment they need to help them live their best life.”