Millennials have always had a special relationship with their dogs, from finding the coziest dogs beds to purchasing accessories approved by the queen herself and even including them as integral parts in Halloween festivities. When it comes to parenting their pets, millennials go all out. And it looks like the enthusiasm isn’t slowing down anytime soon. Over the course of the past year and a half, the pandemic puppy has become a huge trend. Whether it was for companionship—due to the fact that most of us couldn’t see our loved ones for months—or because we were avoiding other responsibilities such as parenting a human child, there’s been a boom in dog adoption, and it seems like millennials are leading the pack.
According to a study conducted by YPulse—a Gen Z and millennial-focused research company—millennials are officially in the top spot when it comes to owning pets, exceeding boomers. YPulse found that 76 percent of 20 to 38-year-olds have a pet, with more than half reporting they have dogs (and 35 percent owning cats). And since millennials currently outnumber boomers, this means majority of the largest living generation has pets in their homes.
But millennials aren’t just adopting pets and then subjecting them to just regular ole kibble and an annual vet’s appointment and calling it a day. This dog-loving generation is also giving their four-legged friends premium care—especially during these trying times. A 2020 study conducted by Rover found that 33 percent of millennials say they’ve spent more on their dog during the pandemic, compared to just 10 percent boomers. The majority of boomers (78 percent) revealed they spent the same amount as they usually do on their dogs.
Thinking about getting a dog, but don’t know where to start? Check out these seven dog breeds ideal for millennials, according to the American Kennel Club.
