Over half (57%) of the UK population are pet owners, and approximately one in three consider themselves their pet’s parent. But does having a “fur baby” make you a better parent to your children?

To explore this question, Open Study College collaborated with registered psychologist Dr Carolyne Keenan to delve into the relationship between pet ownership and parenting skills. Dr Keenan, who offers both face-to-face and online sessions from her clinic in Haywards Heath, West Sussex, brings a wealth of experience to the discussion.

“Pet ownership provides an opportunity to practise empathy and nurturing, which are critical qualities for effective parenting,” says Dr Keenan. “When people care for a pet, they learn to be attuned to their animal’s emotional and physical needs – skills that easily transfer to parenting. This helps future parents develop patience, compassion, and the ability to manage the needs of another living being, which are all essential when raising children.”

Supporting this perspective, studies have shown that individuals with strong attachments to their pets often exhibit higher levels of empathy. For instance, research indicates that children who are highly attached to their pets tend to be more empathetic than those less attached.

“Numerous studies have shown that pets can significantly reduce stress, anxiety, and depression,” Dr Keenan notes. “For those anticipating the demands of parenthood, having a pet can offer emotional support, improve mood, and even provide a sense of relaxation amidst the often overwhelming expectations of starting a family. Interacting with pets has been shown to release oxytocin, the ‘bonding hormone,’ which not only strengthens the bond between pet and owner but also aids in creating a calm environment at home.”

The human-canine bond, in particular, has been associated with various health benefits, including reduced stress and improved mental well-being.

“Pets, especially dogs, require a routine – feeding, walking, and grooming – which can mirror the structure and responsibility needed in raising children,” explains Dr Keenan. “This teaches prospective parents valuable time management skills, ensuring they can balance multiple commitments and attend to the needs of a child in the future.”

“Pets often challenge their owners to practise conflict resolution,” says Dr Keenan. “Whether it’s training a dog or managing a cat’s behaviour, learning to navigate these situations with patience and calmness prepares future parents for the challenges that will inevitably arise with children. It’s a great way to learn that not every situation will be easy, but a solution can often be found through understanding and persistence.”

“The relationship between a pet and their owner can teach invaluable lessons in connection and responsibility—two qualities that form the foundation of good parenting,” Dr Keenan observes. “By making decisions that directly impact their pet’s well-being, individuals learn the importance of prioritising others, a mindset that will serve them well when the time comes to care for a child.

“Ultimately, owning a pet is much more than a source of companionship; it’s an opportunity for personal growth and preparation for parenthood. The lessons learned from caring for an animal – empathy, responsibility, patience, and communication – are invaluable building blocks for those about to begin their journey into parenthood. While pets and children are, of course, different, the skills and experience gained from one can certainly benefit the other, making pet owners well-equipped to thrive as parents in the future.”

Reflecting on Dr Keenan’s thoughts, Claire Hancox, recruitment manager at Open Study College, shares her personal experience: “Neither my husband nor I had been around kids much growing up, so when we decided to get a dog, it felt like a massive commitment that we really had to consider.

“When we brought Molly home, she wasted no time causing chaos. Having ‘accidents’ in nearly every room, chewing through cables, and dragging my husband’s trainers to the bottom of the garden. You name it, she did it!

“Of course, raising a dog isn’t the same as raising a child, but it gives you a good idea of the responsibilities that go along with caring for someone who fully depends on you. Unlike cats, who are quite independent, dogs need you and rely on you.”