Many believe that the kind of dog you choose says a lot about who you are from your lifestyle and values to your personality traits. While some might dismiss this as a coincidence or just a sweet idea, others swear by the uncanny similarities between pets and their owners. Now, new research adds weight to the theory, revealing that the bond between humans and their canine companions might run deeper than we thought.
In a study by Pets4Homes involving over 3,000 recent puppy purchases, 72% of owners said their dog’s personality is either “somewhat” or “very similar” to their own. According to the new research, the dogs we choose reflect both who we are but also who we want to be.
Axel Lagercrantz, CEO of the UK’s largest pet marketplace Pets4Homes told the Express: “Our latest survey of more than 3,000 recent puppy purchases shows something every dog lover has always suspected: our dogs really do reflect who we are. In fact, 72% of owners told us their dog’s personality is ‘somewhat or very similar’ to their own, and when you look closer, it’s fascinating how true that is.”
Mr Lagercrantz explained that owners of Border Collies, for example, are almost twice as likely to describe themselves as adventurous compared to the average person (34% vs. 18%).
He said: “That perfectly mirrors the breed’s reputation as energetic and outdoorsy – these are people who clearly choose dogs that match their own lifestyle.”
For those glued to their phones, Miniature Dachshunds appear to be the breed of choice. The expert revealed that over 56% of their owners post about their pets on TikTok, which is more than double the average across all breeds.
“It confirms their status as the social-media star breed, appealing to younger, digitally savvy owners who love to share their lives online.”
Despite negative stereotypes surrounding the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, dog owners with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier described themselves as the most ‘easy-going’ group. Over 56% chose this personality trait, challenging outdated views of both the breed and its typical owner.
He added that this is “a heartening reflection of the joy and calm these dogs can bring into people’s lives.”
The survey also found that geography plays a major role in breed selection.
Mr Lagercrantz said: “Geography also plays a big role. Cockapoo and Shih-Tzu owners over-index in coastal communities (51–53% live by the sea vs 10% overall), pointing to a clear ‘seaside doodle’ micro-trend, where small, low-shedding breeds thrive in salt-air towns.
“At the other end of the spectrum, city-living ‘micro-flat’ owners lean heavily towards Mini Dachshunds, Cavapoos and Chihuahuas, who over-index by up to 67% in urban homes – proof that size and trainability drive choices in tighter spaces.”
When it comes to family-friendly pets, Cavapoos lead the pack. About 41% of Cavapoo households include children, compared to just 28% across all breeds. Meanwhile, in the countryside you’re more likely to see many Border Collies, Jack Russells and Labradors dominate, with their owners 31–38% more likely to live in rural areas.
Mr Lagercrantz concluded: “This survey data is a fascinating insight into how people are not just choosing a dog they like the look of, but they’re also choosing a dog that reflects who they are, where they live and how they want to live their lives.”
