For Millennials, Dogs Are Better Companions Than Friends and Parents
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
When it comes to finding the best companion, many Millennials are looking no further than their four-legged friends.
New research has revealed that Millennials often value their dogs' company over that of their human besties, siblings—and even their own parents. The survey of 1,900 U.S. dog owners found that those born between 1981 and 1996 had a strong preference for canine companionship; a significant 60 percent reported their dog as a better companion than their best friend.
The survey, conducted in April 2025, was commissioned by pet nutrition and wellness company Spot & Tango and conducted by Talker Research.
A woman dances with her Golden Retriever.
A woman dances with her Golden Retriever.The trend even continued with family, as 55 percent of Millennials found their dog a better companion than their siblings, and a surprising 53 percent said they feel the same way when comparing their dogs to their parents.
Even nearly half of Millennials said their dog offers better companionship than a spouse or significant other.
The findings fit into a broader picture from the survey, which shows an incredible level of devotion to dogs across generations—but with Millennials often leading the pack. For example, one in seven dog owners overall would consider ditching their partner or spouse if it meant giving their dog a longer life, and for Millennials, that number moves up to 16 percent.
The kind of sacrifices Millennials are willing to make are what drive the point home. To give their dog an extra three years, 41 percent of them would give up coffee entirely. This dedication also shows up in their wallets, with 21 percent of Millennials happy to spend over $10 per meal for their dog's health, more than Gen X or Baby Boomers.
"This research shows just how deeply bonded people are with their dogs—not just emotionally, but in the daily choices they make," said Russell Breuer, founder and CEO of Spot & Tango, in a news release. "It's clear that for many, investing in a dog's health and longevity isn't just a priority—it's a reflection of how we define family and quality of life."
The study also found that for all generations, chilling out and watching TV together is the top activity with their dogs. This shared downtime likely helps build those strong companionship bonds.
While the survey definitely highlighted these emotional connections, it also touched on the nitty-gritty of pet care. Dr. Stephanie Liff, a New York City-based vet and Spot & Tango's vet advisor, added that "Preventative care and a high-quality diet are the absolute best investments pet owners can make in their dog's long-term health."
So, what's the takeaway? For a whole lot of Millennials, it seems the unwavering affection of a dog offer a kind of companionship that, in their eyes, beats out some of the most classic human relationships.
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