It is a known fact: the French love their pets …. to the point of preferring to spend time with them rather than with their partner! Surprising results, unveiled by a recent survey carried out in 20 countries, with more than 30,000 animal owners.
56 % say they prefer to spend time with their four -legged companion
According to this unprecedented study carried out by Yougov in February 2025, the French turned above all to their pet when they are faced with a stressful situation.
“”56 % say they prefer to spend time with their four -legged companion, against 33 % with their partner, 25 % with their family and only 19 % with their friends “, confirms the survey.
A figure that illustrates the central place occupied by dogs and cats in the life of their masters.
Health assets
Far from being simple “pets”, dogs and cats play an active role in the health of their owners. More than two thirds of French people thus claim that their animals encourage them to do “pauses“In their days. Exit the umpteenth email at your H+1, make way for a cuddly session on the sofa.
It is also proven that a simple caress emitted towards his dog decreases blood pressure and slows the heart rate. And, in the event of a stressful event (mourning, divorce, dismissal, etc.), the best friend of the man also helps to reduce the level of anxiety and the risk of depression.
Another good point, once again revealed by the investigation: in a society marked by hyperconnection, animals also help … to spend less time on the screens. And yes! For 59% of interviewees, taking care of their animals allows them to “pick up“.
Finally, 54 % of the individuals questioned believe that dogs and cats would improve “The quality of their sleep.” This could be explained by the impact that animals have on several types of hormones, such as cortisol – the famous stress hormone – and oxytocin.
Finally, the great advantage of dogs is that they encourage their master (s) to be more sporty. Since they need to spend at least 2 to 3 times a day, their owners have no choice but to take them out at regular intervals.
Dogs, cats: a “good distance” to keep
If the majority of time our four -legged animals make us really happy, be careful not to “humanize” them too much.
“People who feel too dependent on their pet – constantly worrying about being separated from him or knowing if their animal loved them in return – are more likely to suffer from symptoms of depression”, entrusted a team of psychologists last March.
Having a pet is therefore not a “miracle” solution for your mental health.
“The way you create a link with your animal – that you feel emotional security Or that you feel anxiety in the relationship-could be just as important as the possession of an animal itself to shape well-being “, recall the researchers.
A point to consider therefore, before adopting a puppy or a kitten on a whim.