Dogs have been loyal companions to humans for centuries. More recently, they’ve taken on the role of "fur babies" in many households, as more people opt for pet ownership instead of starting traditional families. This cultural shift raises interesting questions about how modern society views family, responsibility, and emotional connection.
A study from Eötvös Loránd University, published in European Psychologist, explores the link between declining birth rates and the rising popularity of pet ownership. While dogs can’t fully replace children, the researchers suggest they can fulfill many of the emotional needs that parenting typically satisfies—without the same financial and social pressures.
“People generally expect to outlive their dogs, unlike their children, which might make the emotional commitment less daunting,” explained Laura Gillet, a Ph.D. student in the university’s Department of Ethology. She emphasized that both individual choices and cultural influences shape the way we bond with our pets.
Why Are More People Choosing Dogs Instead of Kids?
In developed nations, declining birth rates have become a notable trend. At the same time, dog ownership has surged. Researchers believe these two patterns may be connected.
Through an in-depth review of existing studies, the research team proposed that dogs may serve as an ideal alternative for those seeking to fulfill a natural desire to nurture. Our biological instinct to care for others finds an outlet in pet parenting, providing emotional satisfaction, companionship, and a sense of responsibility—without the long-term financial and lifestyle commitments associated with raising children.
Dogs offer many of the same emotional rewards as human offspring, such as affection, routine, and purpose. With lower costs and fewer societal pressures, choosing to raise a pet can feel like the best of both worlds.
Why Dogs Make Great Companions
Dogs have evolved alongside humans, developing the ability to understand and respond to our cues and emotions. These abilities contribute to their strong social bonds with people—bonds that can, in some ways, mirror those between parents and young children. Certain breeds, such as pugs or French bulldogs, even display physical and behavioral traits that resemble those of toddlers, such as vulnerability and dependence.
Like children, dogs rely completely on their caregivers for food, exercise, and social interaction. However, the demands of dog care are typically less time-intensive than parenting a human child, making dogs a more manageable option for many.
That said, not all pet owners view their dogs as children.
“Contrary to common belief, only a small portion of dog owners treat their pets as if they were human kids,” noted Eniko Kubinyi, lead researcher and head of the MTA-ELTE “Momentum” Companion Animals Research Group. “Most people choose dogs precisely because they are not human, and they recognize the unique needs of their pets as animals.”
The Changing Nature of Pet Parenthood
The study’s authors stress the importance of respecting a dog’s natural instincts and needs. Treating dogs too much like human children can raise ethical issues. For example, the demand for dogs with infant-like traits has led to overbreeding and health problems in certain breeds. Overprotective behavior from pet owners can also result in anxiety or behavioral issues for the dog.
Ultimately, the researchers hope their work will encourage a more nuanced understanding of human-animal relationships. As society faces increasing rates of loneliness and social isolation, pets—especially dogs—continue to play a crucial role in providing companionship and emotional support. Whether they’re seen as children, friends, or family members, our bond with them remains as strong as ever.
