Shocking number of dog owners let their pooch sit at the table, survey reveals

Nearly half of dog owners say their pet has a “meal ritual” — and some of them are extreme.That’s according to a survey of 2,000 dog owners, which found 44% said their pet performs a precise routine or behavior at mealtime.From whining or barking (21%) and jumping up and down (21%) to doing a little dance (21%) and wiggling their whole backside (19%), almost half of participants said their pet has a signature “move” when it’s time to eat.The research, conducted by Talker Research on behalf of JustFoodForDogs, also found these rituals don’t just involve the dogs.Owners admit to being part of the routine, too.Almost half of dog owners polled said they have to place food in a specific spot or in a specific bowl (48%), while 38% revealed they have to add a little extra ingredient (like fresh food) to make dogs’ meal more enticing (38%) or hand-mix food to make it more appetizing (30%).Saying a special phrase or word before feeding them (22%) was also reported, as well as giving them a little treat or snack before their main meal as a warm-up (20%), plating their meal like a gourmet dish at a restaurant (16%) and heating food to a certain temperature (15%).Fourteen percent of participants even said they go as far as setting the table for their dog and sitting down with them to eat (14%). Twelve percent said they let their dog choose their meal, and another 12% said they have to use specific utensils, like a special spoon, to serve their dog.Nearly one in 10 said they sing a little song and even do a little jig to get their dogs to eat.“From bowl placements to special toppers and even pre-meal dances, this level of dedication shows just how deeply pet parents care about their dogs’ happiness and routines,” said Carey Tischler, JustFoodForDogs President.

“It’s clear mealtime has become more than just nutrition.With many serving fresh, human-grade food, they’re feeding their pets the way they feed themselves—with love, intention, and plen...