Whether we notice it or not, our dogs have a big impact on our lives, and we do on theirs, too. Our wellbeing, everyday adventure and confidence levels are deeply intertwined with those of our canine pal.
We surveyed 2,000 pup parents about their canines and confidence, and found that 92% believe their dog’s confidence levels impact their own. While 68% revealed that their own confidence seems to have a big impact on their four-pawed pals, too.
"As summer holidays approach, it's important to remember that a trip away can be just as exciting – and sometimes just as overwhelming – for our dogs as it is for us. Dogs may find new environments, unfamiliar sounds and changes to their routine stressful, so taking things at their pace and planning your stay with their interest in mind is key." - Beth Bush-Kidd, Canine Behaviour and Training Manager at Battersea
In this guide, we're going to discuss the concept of the ‘minorstones’ method, and how you and your dog influence each other's confidence, wellbeing and boldness. Read on for more.
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Dogs are making owners feel more confident and social
A lot of people have big milestones in their lives, but have you ever heard of the phrase ‘minorstones’? It's all about celebrating the tiny steps that, over time, lead to bigger strides.
A daily walk, an evening cuddling on the sofa, meeting people with your dog by your side, these are all examples of minor changes that can lead to big lifestyle changes. Any nerves, fears or social anxiety we’re harbouring can gradually reduce, and our overall confidence and well-being improves.
Do dogs really help with confidence and social anxiety? Well, 66% of our survey pet-parents feel more confident talking to new people with their canine best pal by their side, and 38% of people find it easier to connect when out and about if their dog is with them.
And 68% surveyed say their confidence has a big impact on their dog too. If you have a nervous pup pal, here are a few tips on building your dog’s confidence around strangers.
Whether meeting people in the park, chatting at a café or just strolling through your local town, your four-pawed best friend is a perfect conversation starter.
“I moved to Leeds from Brighton 11 years ago, not knowing anyone – and have since (separately) met my two closest friends through our dogs, by just bumping into each other on dog walks in the local area. Dogs are great because they don’t care about social awkwardness – they just want to make friends with others, so they force you to interact and socialise! With one close friend, we exchanged numbers on the second time we met, so that we could schedule walks together to socialise the dogs (and us it seems!) – the dogs ended up becoming besties, and so did we!” – Holly Whittaker, Leeds
How dogs encourage people to spend more time outdoors
Getting outside and in the fresh air has long been a boost to well-being, and how do dogs help you exercise? With dog walks! Dogs need regular stints of exercise and mental stimulation, and as their owner, you're getting the same benefits.
Even if you're just stepping outside into your garden to let your dog potter about or popping to your nearby green space for a quick leg stretch, those 5 minutes of fresh air and exercise each day can mount up. It's a perfect example of minorstones building up into milestones.
Having a canine pal can really impact your lifestyle and get you outside. You’ll receive plenty of benefits from walking a dog. Of those surveyed, 64% spend more time outdoors because of their dog, 56% explore parks, beaches and trails and, best of all, 36% often visit new places to keep themselves and their pup pal stimulated.
Best of all, your dog can get you out in all kinds of weather – a fantastic mood booster, especially in the darker winter months. In spring and summer, when the sun returns, getting out for walks and boosting your vitamin D is a huge is a real benefit, whether human or canine.
Find out how to make the most of winter walks with your dog or discover our guide to exercising safely with your dog.
“I desired a vizsla because I wanted long walks and trail runs and a dog that had the physical fitness and energy to go further. So, this has taken me on trails I have never been down, or go a bit further, as a walk always seems a waste without a dog beside you. He helped me train for the Jurassic Coast Mighty Hike in 2025 (26 miles) with long hikes and en route entertainment.” – Georgie Clarke and Huckleberry (2.5-year-old Hungarian vizsla)
The mental health benefits of owning a dog
When it comes to our dogs and mental health, these loyal companions can really improve our day-to-day wellbeing.
We were curious to see what people thought and asked the question: do dogs reduce anxiety and loneliness? 42% of people surveyed believed dogs made them less lonely, while 41% agreed their pup pal made them feel less anxious.
Overall, we weren't surprised to find that a whopping 92% of pet parents surveyed believe that dogs have a positive impact on their lives.
“Not a specific fear or challenge, but there have been tough times where my dogs have definitely helped pull me through. With a dog, you need to get up, you need to walk, you need to follow routine, whatever the weather, whatever the day. They’re like your children – they need you, provide you comfort and something to come home to. Everything this does for you mentally and physically can help you overcome some really tough times and make each day better.” – Georgie and Huckleberry
Why dogs inspire owners to try new things
Having a four-pawed companion expands your lifestyle and could make your life fuller. Instead of popping to the café on your own you've got a canine pal by your side, and they're also a great excuse to join walking groups or pop to the beach, just you and your dog.
We took a deep dive into how our pup pals change our lifestyles. In the survey, we found that a whopping 86% of people have tried new activities because of their canine companions. 47% of people have visited dog-friendly venues, while 24% found that having a waggy-tailed chum has encouraged them to join a group.
For days when it’s difficult to get outside for a long walk, we’ve got a guide on activities to do with a dog inside your home and Battersea have inspired us with this guide to brain training for dogs – fun for both you and your canine companion!
We've no doubt that having a dog with you will encourage you to discover the great outdoors. Discover beaches, forests and heathlands, even old castles and ruins that you may not have ventured to without the incentive of a dog walk.
How dogs help people overcome fear and life challenges
For those of us who struggle with much bigger lifestyle and emotional challenges, such as high levels of anxiety, fear of the unfamiliar or new situations, or events such as grief, we found that dogs can be an invaluable source of comfort.
While our canine pals can’t solve our problems for us, they become reliable, loyal companions through whatever life throws our way. They don't know it, but a pet dog can be our rock under difficult circumstances. Emotional support dogs offer real-life benefits and can be a huge help for anyone undergoing high levels of anxiety and fear.
We asked for feedback, and found that 38% surveyed thanked their pup pal for helping them overcome a fear or challenge in their life. 47% relied on their dog to support them through a fear of going out alone, 42% said that their dog helped with their fear of unfamiliar places. Finally, 33% felt that their loyal companion helped them cope with change, and 32% felt that having a dog helped them during a major life transition.
Generational differences in how dogs impact our lives
We also decided to look at how different age groups rely on their four-pawed companions and were surprised to find that there was quite a big difference between the generations.
When it came to boomers, 71% concluded that dogs are a great excuse to get outside more, which has a wonderful domino effect, naturally leading to more fresh air and more ‘minorstones’ of daily exercise.
Younger generations lean on their pup pals more for their social wellbeing and community. Gen Z especially love dogs for the connection they bring, with 44% joining dog groups and 51% visiting dog‑friendly social spots.
Millennials show similar habits, with 37% in dog groups and 56% heading to dog‑friendly venues. Around one in five from both generations (21% of Gen Z and 22% of millennials) even attend events or community meetups because of their dogs.
Why this matters: How our confidence impacts our dogs
You may find that having your canine pal on your side is a massive boost to your confidence – well, your four-pawed friend feels the same way!
Getting out and about, trying new things, and discovering new places; all of that mental stimulation impacts the wellbeing of your dog as well as you as their owner.
Especially if you have a nervous dog, a rescue dog that might need a little extra love, or a new puppy who is discovering the world for the first time, the simple act of going for a dog walk each day provides mental stimulation and will have a wonderful impact on both the animal and its owner.
If your waggy-tailed chum is prone to nerves, take a look through our guides for insight and ideas on how you can improve your dog’s confidence or calm your dog in a new environment.
"As summer holidays approach, it's important to remember that a trip away can be just as exciting – and sometimes just as overwhelming – for our dogs as it is for us. Dogs may find new environments, unfamiliar sounds and changes to their routine stressful, so taking things at their pace and planning your stay with their interest in mind is key.
"Before travelling, look at the accommodation you are booking to ensure that it is suitable for your dog. For instance, if they find meeting new people challenging, then a busy city stay will likely be challenging for them. In addition, help your dog build positive associations with the journey itself by practising whichever transport you will take ahead of time. Once you arrive, try to maintain familiar routines around feeding, exercise and rest. Bringing along favourite toys, bedding, and other items that smell like home can also help them feel more secure.
Most importantly, give your dog time to settle in. Rather than packing every day with activities, allow them to explore their new surroundings gradually and ensure they always have a quiet space to retreat to if they need a break. With a little preparation and patience, holidays can be a positive experience for both owners and their dogs."
- Beth Bush-Kidd, Canine Behaviour and Training Manager at Battersea
Get outside with a UK break
Book a holiday with your favourite four-pawed companion to somewhere that will really boost your confidence and your dog's. Check out our guide on what to look for when booking a dog-friendly cottage.
Discover sniff-friendly trails and paw-friendly beaches throughout the UK. Venture out into forests, along the coastal paths, and to the summit of hilltops; all these things can give both you and your canine companion a new leash of life.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.