<p>Two-thirds of Americans claim they spare no expense when it comes to their furry companions, according to a new poll.</p><p>Out of 2,000 dog owners surveyed, four in five admitted to pampering their dogs as much as possible.</p><p>This may be because three-quarters of respondents consider their dog a member of their family and 79% want to give their pups everything they need to feel loved.</p><p>Three in four dog owners said they’re willing to go the extra mile for their pooch since they have an irreplaceable bond with them.</p><p>Eighty percent said it’s important to them that their furry friend looks clean and well-kept which is probably why more than half of dog owners said that their pup visits the salon at least five times a year, compared to the 42% of respondents who visit their own salons less often.</p><p>Dog parents also love pampering their four-legged companions with “treats and cuddles,” “long walks” or “new toys.”</p><p>While 73% agree that pampering their dogs is one of the best ways to show them love, a similar number pamper their dog more than they ever thought they would (72%).</p><p>Thirty percent of dog owners even own a pet stroller that they carry their dog around in, and another 21% plan on getting one to wheel their furry friend around, according to the research conducted by OnePoll in partnership with PuppySpot</a>.</p><p>And pet parents have a tough time staying away from their pups. Many take their dogs with them to run errands (51%) or when they’re catching up with friends and family (40%).</p><p>Two in five seek out restaurants that allow pets and 35% prioritize pet-friendly vacation spots so their furry friend isn’t left out of their plans.</p><p>Another way dog owners show their pups love is by celebrating their birthday (57%) with new toys (56%), a party (52%) or a trip to hang out with their doggy friends (49%).</p><p>Three-quarters of pet parents show their love by looking into the perfect items for their dogs (76%), spending nearly 300 hours a year looking for the best treats and toys.</p><p>Making good choices is important for dog owners, too, with 83% of respondents who have children agreeing that taking care of their dogs is equally as important as taking care of their child.</p><p>“As a community of dog lovers, we know firsthand about the various ways dog parents show love and affection to their fur baby, and how these moments build trust and create a life-long bond,” said Claire Komorowski, PuppySpot’s CEO. “Whether it’s through long walks, special treats, new toys or, simply some cuddles, every dog needs to be cared for in a way that shows them just how special and adored they are.” </p><p>Most respondents recall bringing home their dogs as one of the happiest days of their lives (72%).</p><p>Some of their favorite memories of their dog are times when their puppy fell asleep on them on the way home or the first time they jumped into their lap.</p><p>More than two-thirds of dog owners consider their dog their best friend (69%), and 73% think that having a dog has made them a more sentimental/emotional person.</p><p>“Welcoming a new dog into your home is truly a one-of-a-kind and life-changing moment,” said Komorowski. “Our mission is to help place healthy puppies into happy homes and from experience, we know that the joy a dog brings to a person or family is truly an unmatched feeling.”</p>
