The 20 things UK dog owners do for their pets - from gourmet meals to luxury spa days

The 20 things UK dog owners do for their pets - from gourmet meals to luxury spa days New research has revealed the lengths Brits will go through to make their pets happy - spending £101 a month on their furry companion The extreme lengths pet owners will go to for their dogs have been revealed - including preparing them specially-made gourmet dinners, splashing out on luxury bedding, and treating them to spa days. Some will even allow their four-legged companions to ride in the front seat of the car and speak to them as though they were children. A survey of 1,800 dog owners revealed that owners typically fork out an average of £101 monthly caring for their pup – and are prepared to spend £36 on a one-off indulgence. The research showed 72% of owners consider their pet to be spoiled, while more owners put their pet's needs first (27%) over their partner's (15%). A spokesperson for free streaming service, U, which commissioned the research following the launch of its show Wagging Rights, said: "People look after their dog like they're VIPs, and it's fascinating to see just how pampered the nation's pups have become, proving the lengths we would go to for our four-legged friends." "For many owners, no expense is spared when it comes to keeping their dog happy, healthy and comfortable. "From luxury dinners to luxury spa days, these findings reveal that Britain's dogs are truly being treated like members of the family." Nearly half (44%) have gone so far as switching on a TV programme specifically for their dog, with 12% confessing their furry friend enjoys better-quality food than they do themselves. A fifth have turned into 'helicopter parents' by fitting a pet camera to monitor their dog while they're away from home. The OnePoll.com research also revealed the connection extends far beyond the typical owner-pet dynamic, as 49% said their pooch offers them emotional support. While 32% reckon they can understand each other without uttering a single word. The U spokesperson added: "What stands out is just how deeply dogs are woven into family life, with many owners putting their pet's comfort, happiness and wellbeing on a par with, or even ahead of, their own." "As our celebrities and their dogs take on a series of training challenges, the show celebrates the lovable quirks, unforgettable moments and unbreakable bonds that make dogs such an important part of our lives." Wagging Rights is a new six-part entertainment series where celebrities and their pet dogs compete in a range of dog-show challenges, from obedience and agility to scent work, all in a bid to win the Wagging Rights trophy. Featuring Rhod Gilbert, Harriet Kemsley, Kae Kurd, Sara Pascoe and Vicky Pattison, it is available to stream free on U. Nigel Reed, celebrity dog behaviourist on the show, said, "For many owners, no expense is spared when it comes to keeping their dog happy, healthy and comfortable. "From gourmet dinners to luxury spa days, these findings reveal that Britain's dogs are truly being treated like members of the family. "What stands out is just how deeply dogs are woven into family life, with many owners putting their pet's comfort, happiness and wellbeing on a par with, or even ahead of, their own. "Those extraordinary relationships are at the heart of the show as it celebrates the lovable quirks, memorable moments and unbreakable bonds that make our dogs such an important part of our lives." THE TOP 20 THINGS OWNERS DO FOR THEIR PETS: - Talk to them as if they're a child - Brush their teeth - Frame pictures of the dog and have it in my house - Let it sleep in bed with me - Plan trips to cater to the dog e.g. dog friendly pubs only - Let the dog choose walking routes - Cook meals specifically just for them - Let my dog sit in the front seat of the car - Buy them expensive accessories e.g. collar - Use pet cameras to check they're ok when I'm not home - Buy it a birthday cake - Carry them to their bed - Purchase luxury bedding for it - Give it skin care - Spend more money on their food than my own - Update my social media with insights into the dog's behaviour - Religiously update friends and family about the dog's life - Bring the dog to all social events I attend - Buy a larger car purely for the dog - Host a dog birthday party