The Best Pet Daily Round-up of News, Research, Opinion or Fun published about Dogs and Cats from around the world:

1. United States (Natural Products Insider) 5 consumer trends found in new pet supplement shopper survey

   In Brief: In a recent survey conducted by MarketPlace in May 2024, significant consumer trends were identified among pet supplement shoppers in the United States. The study, which involved 754 pet parents, revealed that species-specific needs vary significantly between dog and cat owners. For instance, 40% of dog owners reported buying supplements for joint health, compared to just 24% of cat owners. In contrast, cat owners are more inclined towards purchasing urinary, kidney, immunity, and senior wellness supplements.

   The survey also highlighted the importance of scientific backing in gaining consumer confidence, with a significant number of pet supplement shoppers placing high value on products that are vet-recommended or scientifically proven. Claims of naturalness and organic ingredients also resonated strongly among consumers.

   Furthermore, the survey shed light on the growing familiarity and perceived benefits of biotics such as probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics among pet owners. It also noted a trend towards multichannel shopping, with Chewy.com and Amazon.com being the most popular platforms. Interestingly, there are distinct preferences in supplement formats between dog and cat owners, with differences in the preference for treats, soft chews, and other supplement forms.

2. United States (Newsweek) 'Catdog''s Reaction to Dad Returning From Work Melts Hearts

   In Brief: A heartwarming video capturing the moment "Ace," a Balinese cat dubbed a "catdog" by his owner, rushes to greet his dad returning from work has captivated over 4.6 million viewers and garnered more than 203,000 likes on Instagram. Known for their dog-like loyalty and sociable nature, Balinese cats like Ace exhibit behaviors more commonly associated with dogs, such as eagerly greeting their owners. This clip underscores the strong bonds that cats can form with their human companions, challenging the stereotype of feline aloofness. Such affectionate displays are particularly characteristic of breeds like the Balinese, known for their intelligence, elegance, and interactive temperament. The overwhelming response to the video on social media highlights the deep connection pets and owners can share, resonating with many who experience similar heartfelt greetings from their own pets.

3. United Kingdom (RSPCA) Kindness Index Report 2024

   In Brief: The fourteenth section of the 2024 Kindness Index Report addresses the critical issue of animal welfare legislation. The report emphasizes that 84% of the public believes animal welfare should be protected by the government through stronger laws. It highlights the need for updated legislation, such as tackling puppy smuggling, abolishing trail hunting, and phasing out cages in farming. The report also calls for expanding the Animal Welfare Act to include protections for invertebrates like octopuses and crabs, recognized as sentient beings. This section underscores the public's high expectations for government action to improve animal welfare​.

4. United Kingdom (BBC) Chanel No 2: The many reasons why dogs love to roll in poo

   In Brief: Dogs' obsession with rolling in foul-smelling substances like animal feces may be rooted in evolutionary behaviors, communication, or simply sensory pleasure. While some theories suggest it was a survival tactic for wild predators, masking their scent, others believe it may be about social bonding, sharing scents within a pack, or even personal enjoyment similar to how humans use perfumes. Research has shown wolves and other canids selectively roll in certain scents, indicating a more complex social or communication role. Despite these theories, the exact reasons remain a mystery, leaving us to speculate on this smelly behavior.

5. United States (Newsweek) Most Popular Dog Breeds With Gen Z, X, Millennials and Baby Boomers

   In Brief: A new survey reveals that America's favorite dog breeds vary significantly across generations. Conducted by Pollfish for Rover, the study polled 1,000 U.S. pet parents and found distinct preferences among Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z. Baby Boomers prefer Chihuahuas, appreciating the small size suitable for urban living and the companionship akin to nurturing a child. Gen X favors Labrador Retrievers, drawn to their versatile, affectionate nature which aligns with this generation's values of flexibility and resilience through personal upheavals. Millennials lean towards German Shepherds, valuing their intelligence, loyalty, and protective traits, reflecting a generation faced with numerous societal challenges. Lastly, Gen Z shows a preference for Golden Retrievers, likely influenced by their consistent high ranking in online searches and their reputation for being friendly and easy to train. The survey highlights how lifestyle, living environments, and generational experiences influence pet preferences, showcasing a fascinating intersection of socio-demographics and pet ownership trends.