This bond between Italians and either dogs or cats (and other pets as well) is a fundamental part of our culture, demonstrating how pets are now considered full members of Italian families.
This very high percentage speaks not only to a cultural shift, but also to an emotional and social one: today, dogs (and to a slightly lesser extent, cats and other pets) are no longer just companion animals but active participants in people's emotional and relational lives and one of the most interesting aspects that emerged from the survey concerns the role animals play in combating loneliness: nine out of ten Italians say their pet helps them feel less alone. This finding is particularly relevant in an era when loneliness, especially among the elderly but not only, is recognized as a social and health problem.
In Genoa it seems like everyone has a dog and it is very common to see people walking their dogs early in the morning, at dusk and really any time of the day.
Apparently, women appear to derive greater emotional benefit from the presence of a pet than men and it's also striking that Generation Z (our youngsters), usually described as highly connected but also fragile in relationships, is the one who most often states they find companionship and comfort in their pet.
The relationship between humans and animals is evolving and redefining the very concept of family. The term “pet parent” is increasingly popular, identifying someone who cares for their pet with the same emotional and material commitment as a child. According to the survey, 42% of Italians describe their pet as a son or daughter, while a further 40% consider it their best friend.
It's not just a lexical shift: this vision is also reflected in families' daily choices. Half of Italians prioritize pet food expenses over personal expenses, while many also prioritize grooming expenses over their own.
This data confirms the economic and social impact of the relationship with a dog today: the pet is no longer an accessory but a central part of family life.
The relationship between dog and human is not based solely on physical proximity or material care.
According to the survey, eight out of ten Italians say they communicate uniquely with their pets, made up of sounds, tones, and expressions that only they understand.
This fascinating phenomenon can be observed daily in the relationship with one's dog: just think of how a dog reacts to invented words, specific intonations, or gestures that acquire meaning in the context of the specific relationship with its human.
The growing centrality of the dog in the family has also led to an increased focus on its health. More and more Italian families are considering insuring their dogs to guarantee adequate care in the event of unexpected events without cost becoming a barrier. This responsible approach is part of the philosophy of conscious pet parenting.
The relationship between Italians and their dogs is increasingly profound, intimate, and structured. It's not just about affection, but a true shift: the dog is now a fully-fledged member of the family.
But with this recognition comes greater responsibility: caring for the dog's physical and emotional health, respecting its animal identity, and ensuring it a dignified life consistent with its needs.
Most commonly owned pets in Liguria and Italy are dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters, turtles, birds and fish. It is becoming increasingly popular (and now legalized) to own ferrets, skunks and snakes, too.
