As dog owners embrace 2026, for many their pets make the most positive impact on their mental health. Dogs are unfazed by the cold, they don’t judge, get bored of the same jokes or tired of walks along the same route and for owners of the 13 million dogs across the UK, their canine companion has made the world of difference to their mental health while navigating the first few cold months of the new year.
The bond between dog and human is incredibly powerful, triggering similar neural pathways to the parent-baby bond says Animed vet Jess Simmonds. People are feeling low with the weather and the back-to-work routine but a dog can provide a sense of calm, a best friend with a listening ear and a wonderful distraction. Whether we need a companion to curl up with or an adventure buddy to get us out into the fresh air, we owe our dogs so much for the unconditional way they support us without even knowing it.
Animed, the online pet and veterinary supplies retailer, are celebrating all the ways dogs bring light and how the unique characteristics of certain breeds boost owner’s mental health.
By far the most popular dog breed is the beloved labrador, there are an estimated 1 million of them in the UK, and with good reason. Over 70% of Labrador owners who took part in the Animed research said they chose the breed for it’s love of human company, their reassuring listening ear and loyal companionship.
Brits also love their cocker spaniels. These lively little dogs are loved for their loyalty and energetic ways that bring a smile to their owner’s face. Interestingly, 80% of the Spaniel owners surveyed say their dogs lift their spirits and are a “bundle of joy” to come home to on a cold winter’s day.
An English icon, the bulldog is more at home on the sofa than going for long walks. Over two thirds of owners are drawn to these roly-poly softies for their laid back approach to just about anything. Bulldogs appear to make their owners laugh more than any other dog breed, with 9 out of 10 attributing this quality to better mental health as a result.
At the other end of the spectrum, the husky is always up for an adventure with their oodles of energy. Huskies never turn down a walk and for the majority of owners, this is what they love most. Nearly 90% say their husky has done wonders for their mental health by keeping them active and getting them out in nature especially on cold days when it would have been easier to stay indoors.
And finally, not forgetting the hugely popular dachshund. A little dog with a huge heart that is both playful and a constant cuddle companion. Dachshunds are sometimes called “Velcro dogs” due to their desire to be close and countless owners cite their loyalty and comforting presence as their most endearing qualities.
Dogs provide emotional support, companionship and lowering anxiety – all without ever saying a word.
