Dog owners recognize diet as a controlling pillar for longevity yet fail to act on it

American pet parents are overall satisfied with the health of their furry friends. A new survey by dog wellness company Get Joy of 1,000 dog parents concluded that nearly 9 out of 10 rank their animal’s health as “good” or “excellent.”

Furthermore, 94% of respondents said they would increase the longevity of the dogs if they could. The survey also found that pet owners were “more likely” to rank the well-being of their dogs better than their own.

The survey, which took place in February, was carried out by market research firm Torfac.

Actions to ensure wellness

As much as 73% of respondents agreed that their top activities for their dog’s well-being were spending time with family or other dogs, getting enough sleep each day, and engaging in activities that make their dogs happy/lift their spirits. 

Nearly 7 out of 10 (68%) said they regularly visit a vet for routine checkups and preventive care, while 65% regularly keep up with preventative care, like dental cleanings and vaccines.

63% prioritized aerobic exercise, but only 53% ensured their pets ate healthy food.

Less than half of the respondents gave their dogs supplements (43%), kept up with the latest information and developments on dog health (45%), and ensured that their pets were eating healthy ingredients (48%). 

The survey found that only 25% regularly used wearable fitness technology, while only 36% claimed to have pet insurance. 

When asked about ways to extend their dogs’ lives, 78% were willing to exercise their dogs regularly. Making regular preventive care visits to the vet (68%) and giving supplements (65%) followed.

Diet lacks focus

A majority of respondents recognized gut health an important benefit for quality of life (89%), longevity (83%) and brain health and disease prevention (77% each).

However, less than 40% of respondents admitted that they occasionally try to ensure their pets eat gut-healthy ingredients or maintain an overall healthy diet.

When asked about the ingredients in the food they feed their dog, only 58% of respondents could name more than 3 ingredients.

Feeding choices

According to the results, 75% of respondents do not feed their dogs fresh food and are highly dependent on processed food.

Dry food is given the most importance, with slightly over 35% preferring it. A combination of wet and dry food follows, with a little under 35% of pet parents adopting this preference. Just 12% feed only fresh food, 7% wet canned food—a slightly lower focus on food prepared at home—and less than 5% use freeze-dried pet food.