How the UK spends Christmas with their dogs

We know that dogs are a big part of the family, and for many people, those happy faces and wagging tails sprinkle even more joy onto the happiest season of the year! In fact, according to our recent study, over three quarters (77%) of us agree that owning a dog makes Christmas even more special.

In order to determine how far pet owners will go to please their pets over the festive period, we surveyed the nation on their pet holiday habits, from buying Christmas presents for their dogs to fixing up a special Christmas doggie dinner, with some surprising but sweet results. 

How many people would prefer to spend Christmas with their pooch?

Half of people in the UK admitted that they’d rather spend the festive season with just their pet to escape the Christmas chaos, given the opportunity! When it comes to treating their pup, 42% said they’ll be buying their dog a Christmas present this year and 36% will be giving their dog their very own Christmas dinner.

However, that’s not all, as 23% take their dog on an extra-special Christmas walk to mark the occasion, and 22% of Brits even go so far as to sign a greeting card from their pooch.

Who spoils the dog most at Christmas, men or women?

While dogs are known to be man’s best friend, we wondered if this was really the case. When it comes to who spoils the dog most at Christmas, four in 10 women (42%) are more than happy to whip up a special Christmas dinner just for the dog compared to three in 10 men (31%).

The same goes for making sure the dog has its own present on Christmas morning, with half of women (50%) putting something under the tree, whereas only a third of men (34%) do the same.

Which UK cities are most excited to spend Christmas with their pup? 

It’s no secret that there are many pampered pooches out there, but how does this vary by city? Well, it turns out that dog owners from Belfast are most excited to have their canine pals by their side during the festivities with 84% saying that having a dog makes Christmas more enjoyable. This is followed closely by those in Birmingham (83%), London (83%), Newcastle (81%) and Glasgow (80%).

People in Belfast really do value their furry friends too, perhaps even over other family members, with 55% of dog owners from this region saying they’d ideally spend Christmas in the company of just their pet. 

However, people in Belfast aren’t the only ones who’d rather spend quality time with their canine companion this festive season - over half of owners in Birmingham (62%), Sheffield (60%), and London (56%) also agree. 

If you’re one of those people that would love to get away from the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping and chaos this December, we’ve compiled a list of our cutest, cosiest cottages to inspire your next winter trip with your canine companion.

The best places to spend Christmas with your dog 

If the idea of taking your favourite, fluffy friend away with you at Christmas sounds really appealing, then we’ve done a little digging into our list of holiday cottages to find some of the most Christmassy cottages that are ideal for snuggling up with your pooch and enjoying your favourite food and films. 

Foxglove Lodge 

Located in the beautiful county of Perth and Kinross, Foxglove Lodge is the perfect countryside getaway for anyone looking for a stylish, comfortable, home from home. Dogs are welcome, of course, and you can treat yourself or your partner to a romantic night in with a real wood burner and a wood-fired hot tub experience! 

Nearby attractions include Glamis Castle, Scone Palace, Perth Races and the Antique Centre, all of which offer a great opportunity to get out and about and explore the local villages and towns – you can even find a great cup of tea and a scone at Scone Palace while you walk your furry friend! 

Nant Barns – Carreg

Drive over the border into the beautiful scenery of North Wales to seek out this luxurious barn conversion of Nant Barns. With calming sea views and plenty of space, this stunning modern barn conversion is a stylish escape from the city for those who want a little more room to breathe at Christmas. Pack up to two dogs and four humans for this one, as there’s plenty of space for the whole family. 

Venture into the wilds of Snowdonia/Eryri National Park and challenge yourself to reach the peaks of some of the highest summits in the UK, or head down to the beach for a bracing walk or a fun game of catch with your pet. Then hurry on home and cook up a hearty, warming, home-cooked meal. 

Bluebird Bus

For more of an off-beat Christmas and definitely for those who like the road less travelled, why not swing by Bluebird Bus in coastal East Devon? This rural retreat is one of the most hidden away in our list, completely private and tucked away behind a copse of trees. There’s no need to worry about getting too cold on this converted bus either as there’s a classic wood burner to keep the whole bus toasty all night long. 

Great for those who like to stargaze, the Bluebird Bus comes with its own little patio with chairs and a small fire pit, so you can brew up a hot chocolate and wrap yourself in blankets to enjoy the sight of the stars on a clear night.

The Old House 

Have yourself a slice of quintessential Cotswolds magic this Christmas by booking yourself and your four-legged friend into The Old House, located in Longborough, deep in the Cotswolds. This picture-perfect cottage could have been taken straight out of a classic Christmas film with its comfy furniture, paned windows and wooden beam ceilings. When it comes to cooking, enjoy playing chef with a fully functioning modern kitchen and plenty of room to prepare a classic Christmas turkey with all the trimmings.

Grab a lead and get out and about while you’re there, exploring the many footpaths and cycle paths that hug the fields full of cows and sheep.

Colquhoune's Byre

If Wales and the English countryside aren’t far enough, then take yourself completely off grid by travelling up to Glendale on the Isle of Skye, trundling along a one-way track to stay at Colquhoune's Byre. Enjoy uninterrupted views across Dunvegan Head and, if you're lucky, you may even see the Outer Hebrides on a clear day. 

Nestle up in this compact, renovated cow shed with your pup to enjoy Christmas films and burn a log or two on the fire before heading to bed in the four-poster beauty that sits in the master bedroom. The Isle of Skye is only 50 miles across, so there’s plenty to do all within a two-hour car journey. 

Christmas is for spending time with loved ones and, as we’ve found, pets are often the most loved ones of all! Find your perfect staycation for you and your pup this Christmas, with our range of dog-friendly cottages available over the Christmas holiday.