The belief that dogs are man’s best friend has been common knowledge for a long time. However, many people also believe that cats can be wonderful companions. Certain studies reveal the differences in well-being between cat and dog owners. Which of them are happier? Let’s find out!
A recent study published in Frontiers in Psychology showed that dog owners have higher self-esteem than those who don't own pets. On the other hand, cat owners seem to have slightly lower self-esteem compared to people without pets. These results are consistent with other psychological studies on pet ownership and overall well-being.
What else can your choice of pet reveal about you? You might be surprised!
Has the debate been settled? Not entirely, but there are good reasons to believe that owning a dog provides an extra dose of happiness and generally improves one’s well-being.
- Physical activity and social interaction A study published in PLOS ONE found that dog ownership is more strongly linked to increased physical activity than owning a cat — consistent with other research on the topic. Dogs are full of energy and require regular exercise, meaning that dog owners tend to stay more active, which is a well-known factor that improves mental health and overall well-being.
- Personality differences among pet owners Personality traits also play a role in determining happiness among pet owners. One study found that dog and cat owners differ in the "Big Five" personality traits: neuroticism, extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and openness.
The study's authors found that dog owners were more agreeable and less neurotic than cat owners. Dog owners were also more extroverted, another indicator of well-being.
Do you choose dogs or cats?
So, what’s the verdict? As with many studies on happiness, the answer remains ambiguous. However, the fact is that dog owners tend to have more opportunities to experience positive emotions and moments—outdoor walks, physical activity, socialization, etc. Cat owners may find their own happy place when their little friend curls up at their feet.
Perhaps the most important thing to remember is that we should choose the pet that best complements our lifestyle. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys companionship, owning a dog is likely to be an effective path to happiness. On the other hand, if you’re more of a homebody who prefers a less demanding companion, a cat might suit you better.
