Three-quarters of UK dogs have ‘poor mental health’

Almost three-quarters of the nation’s dogs show signs of having poor mental health, with 18% showing symptoms as often as weekly, new research reveals.

The research, by Guide Dogs, shows only 36% of dog owners are able to spot the signs of poor canine mental health and 24% admit they didn’t even realise that a dog could suffer with poor mental health.

On average, UK dog owners spend between 46-60 minutes per day looking to keep their dog stimulated, the data reveals.

Chief Scientific Officer at Guide Dogs, Dr Helen Whiteside, said: “It’s an outdated viewpoint to think that dogs just need a walk or two a day to be content. Without different forms of mental stimulation, dogs can begin to show signs of behavioural issues, such as anxiety and frustration, which can have a huge impact on their mental wellbeing.

“Dogs can thrive when given new tasks and opportunities to engage. Integrating a mix of canine enrichment activities into your dog’s day-to-day life is the best way to help stimulate their senses, encourage them to practice natural behaviours, and improve their wellbeing. As well as being a lot of fun for you and your dog.”