A substantial number of dog owners across the United Kingdom believe their pets exhibit 'superpowers,' with many reporting that their dogs can detect danger and sense when something is amiss. According to research conducted by Burns Pet Nutrition, approximately 80 percent of owners feel their dogs can sense when something is wrong, and an equal percentage trust their dogs for protection.
The study also revealed that over a third of owners have been alerted by their dogs to wellbeing issues they were unaware of. Furthermore, 22 percent of respondents reported being woken by their dogs during an emergency.
Beyond sensing danger, the research indicates dogs are perceived as emotionally attuned companions. Half of the surveyed owners believe their dogs understand when they are feeling sad, while 44 percent report their dogs recognize when they are stressed or unwell.
These findings were released as Burns Pet Nutrition launched The Burns Bravery Awards, an initiative celebrating heroic dogs. Former Strictly Come Dancing star Karen Hauer is set to host the awards ceremony in London in November.
Hauer shared a personal anecdote, describing a time she felt overwhelmed. "One of my dogs came and sat beside me, rested their head against me and just stayed there," she recalled. "They didn’t know what was wrong but somehow they knew I needed them." She highlighted the resilience of dogs, many of whom have endured hardship, noting that they "still choose to trust... to show compassion and to love," calling this their "superpower."
The research indicates a deep reliance on canine companionship, with 75 percent of owners turning to their dogs instead of family after a difficult day. A further 56 percent regularly confide in their dogs about problems, and 76 percent share secrets with them.
Despite varying opinions on specific canine abilities, a strong consensus emerged regarding the positive impact of dogs on mental wellbeing, with 98 percent of owners agreeing that their pets have improved it.
A spokesperson for Burns Pet Nutrition stated, "This research shows just how deeply people value the instincts, support and protection their dogs provide." The Burns Bravery Awards aim to recognize extraordinary dogs and draw attention to the work of Britain's Mountain Search & Rescue dogs.
Nominations for The Burns Bravery Awards are currently open, with winners to be announced in November following public voting.
With an estimated 15 million domestic dogs in the UK, the findings suggest a widespread phenomenon of owners attributing remarkable abilities to their canine companions.