03.04.23 April 03, 2023 Owning a Dog

Are The Nation’s Pets Ruining Their Sex Lives?

Adding a pet into the equation is a big step for any relationship, as this holds a whole new level of responsibility and commitment for both sides. Though parenting a pet is a highly rewarding and entertaining experience for couples, these loveable creatures require a lot of love and attention – alongside caring for both yourself and your partner too! Whether you’ve adopted a cat, a dog, or both, finding the perfect balance of caring for your significant other and your pet can prove difficult for many, and failing to set some much-needed rules and boundaries for your four-legged friend, especially when it comes to sleeping arrangements, can have a significant impact on the happiness of all involved. With this in mind, we conducted a study to find out how the sleeping habits of the nation’s beloved pets are impacting their sex lives, as well as examining how many UK adults admit to putting their love for their pet above their partner. How are the nation’s pets affecting Brits’ intimacy? Upon analysing the data, it’s clear to see that our four-legged friends can act as a hinderance when it comes to having intimate moments with a lover, as four in ten Brits stated that allowing their furry friends to sleep on the bed has affected their sex life in some way (41%). Though it seems that stubborn pets and their preferred place to snooze are not the only ones to blame, as the findings revealed that nearly one million UK adults across the nation (832,557)* admit to using their pet sleeping on the bed as an excuse not to have sex with their partner. Emotions play a big part here too, it seems, as one in nine (11%) confessed that their pet’s sleeping arrangements have affected their sex life as they feel too guilty to move their pet when they find them napping on the bed. In fact, a fifth will only actually have sex if they can actually bring themselves to move their snoozing pet (23%) from the bed. In terms of who’s more likely to move their sleepy pooch in order to make time for some much-needed intimacy, double the number of women (14%) admitted to having less sex because they feel guilty moving their sleeping pet from the bed than men (7%). Though it’s not all bad news for loved-up Brits, as six percent of those surveyed said that their pet sleeping on the bed has encouraged them to get more creative with their sex lives, exploring different places around the home rather than moving the sleeping cat or dog. Belfast residents have their sex lives affected the most by sleeping pets When examining regional-specific data, Belfast was found to have the highest percentage of residents who said their pet sleeping on their bed had affected their sex lives in some way (61%), followed by Glasgow and Manchester (both 55%). Also high up on the list of the cities were Edinburgh (48%) and London (47%), with almost half of residents within each of the cities having had their sex lives affected by their sleepy pets occupying the bed. In contrast to this, Norwich had the lowest percentage of affected residents (17%), followed by Liverpool (26%) and Southampton (28%). UK City % of residents who say their pet sleeping on their bed has affected their sex life in some way Belfast 61% Glasgow 55% Manchester 55% Edinburgh 48% London 47% Bristol 44% Leeds 41% Cardiff 40% Birmingham 33% Nottingham 33% Sheffield 32% Newcastle 30% Southampton 28% Liverpool 26% Norwich 17% We spoke with Dennis Relojo-Howell, Managing Director of Psychreg, who shared his insight as to why we feel so guilty when it comes to our pets, and why it is integral to set boundaries: “Pets hold a special place in our lives due to several reasons. First, they offer companionship and unconditional love – fulfilling our innate need for social connection. This bond can be so strong that it sometimes rivals our relationships with fellow humans. “Second, as a myriad of research has shown, pets help reduce stress and anxiety by offering a soothing presence, which can lead to the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with social bonding and trust. This creates a positive feedback loop, further strengthening our attachment to them. “Pets can also give us a sense of purpose, responsibility, and structure, contributing positively to our mental well-being. However, the deep bond with pets can sometimes affect our relationships, especially when our partners feel left out or when pets become a source of conflict. “To maintain a healthy balance, it's important to establish clear boundaries with our pets. This can include designated pet-free zones or times when pets are not allowed on furniture or in specific rooms. Ensuring that you prioritise quality time with your partner without the presence of pets is crucial as it helps maintain the emotional connection between you and your partner, reinforcing the importance of your relationship.” Brits are spending more quality time with their pet each day than their other half, study reveals We also quizzed participants on the amount of quality time spent with their pet versus that spent with their lover and found that Brits are spending an average of seven hours quality time per day with their pets, versus six hours with their partner. According to the findings, women are reserving more quality time for their pets (eight hours per day on average), than they are for their other halves (six hours). For men, it was a different story, with six hours of quality time for pets vs. seven hours for partners. It’s no secret that pets love being spoilt and fussed over, but more than half of Brits (56%) admitted to giving their pets treats more frequently than they do their spouse, and a further half are more likely to use pet names for their four-legged friends too (49%). More than a third (35%) also admitted to cuddling their beloved pet more often than they do their partner, and a further quarter (28%) even admitted to saying the words “I love you” more frequently to their furry friends! After a long day at work or on a lazy Sunday afternoon, Brits up and down the country are partial to a quick nap in order to recharge their batteries. However, according to our findings, a quarter (27%) of the nation say they do this more frequently with their pet rather than with their spouse. A further fifth (16%) say they do this equally with both. That said, 43% of UK adults say they’re more inclined to tell their pet off then they are their other half. For just a fifth (18%), it’s the other way around. Activity % of UK adults who do this more with their pet than their partner Give them treats 56% Call them pet names 49% Cuddle them 35% Tell them I love them 28% Take a nap with them 27% Kiss them 26% Buy gifts for them 25% Go out for the day together 22% Go out for food and drinks 18% Buy them clothes 15% And they called it puppy love: Women are more likely to pick their pet over their partner As part of our study, we also wanted to uncover whether Brits would be more inclined to pick either their partner or their pet if forced to do so. Interestingly, the findings revealed that the UK is a most certainly a nation of loyal pet lovers, with more than one in six UK adults having opted for their pets rather than their partners if forced to choose between the two (16%). A fifth of those surveyed admitted they’d find it hard to pick between the two (21%), whilst almost one in ten said they’d rather go it alone and opt for neither (9%). The data highlighted that women are more likely to pick their pet over their partner (18% vs.12% of men). Similarly, more women said they’d struggle to make the decision between their partner and their pet (24% vs, 17% of men). The cities of Norwich and Sheffield had the highest percentage of residents who say they’d pick their pet over their partner if asked to decide (23%), while those living in Manchester would be more likely to leave both their pet and partner behind and go it alone (24%). Edinburgh was seen to have the highest percentage of respondents who would pick their partner over their pet if asked to make the choice (67%). How to create all-important boundaries and encourage pets to sleep in their own space As much as we adore our pets, setting boundaries and sticking to them is an essential part of being a responsible pet owner. And whilst it’s natural to want to ensure your pet feels both loved and appreciated, it’s integral we’re showing our partners how much we love and cherish them too. If you are able to set clear boundaries with your pet in the bedroom, namely in regard to where your pet goes to sleep at night, this can be hugely beneficial to the relationship you have with your other half, especially when it comes to maintaining a healthy level of intimacy. Following these rules may help to encourage your pet to sleep in their own space, and hopefully stay there: Firstly, create a cosy place for them to sleep that they know belongs to them. This is followed by setting and practising clear commands such as ‘go to bed’ or ‘on your bed’ that you say each night at bedtime can help both of you to get into a good routine. When using the command, show your pet what you would like them to do and where you would like them to go. Be consistent and ensure you’re rewarding them when they do follow your lead here. And, if your dog leaves their bed during the night, ask them to get back onto their bed and offer a treat. If they wake again, do not give them a treat, simply use the command and ask them to get onto their bed.   Conclusion At Lords and Labradors, we pride ourselves on putting your pet's wellbeing first. This includes setting healthy boundaries in their home to ensure that your fluffy friends are properly trained and living the best quality of life. However, this is not to forget that your own personal relationships should not have to experience strain due to your pet’s sleeping habits. After all, a happy home is the best environment for your pooch to reside in. We hope that this study will prompt you to practice healthy boundaries with your pets, potentially by using some of the tips that are on offer in this article. Why not share some of your pet’s sleeping areas with us on Twitter? Data Sources:  Survey of 2,000 UK adults conducted in March 2023 * Almost 1million pet owners determined by - 52% of UK adults own a pet, according to PDSA data in 2022 52 % of UK adult population (53,369,083) = 27,751,923.16 3% of pet owners who said they use pet as excuse not to have sex. So 3% of 27,751,923.16 = 832,557

By Megan Willis

Adding a pet into the equation is a big step for any relationship, as this holds a whole new level of responsibility and commitment for both sides.

Though parenting a pet is a highly rewarding and entertaining experience for couples, these loveable creatures require a lot of love and attention – alongside caring for both yourself and your partner too!

Whether you’ve adopted a cat, a dog, or both, finding the perfect balance of caring for your significant other and your pet can prove difficult for many, and failing to set some much-needed rules and boundaries for your four-legged friend, especially when it comes to sleeping arrangements, can have a significant impact on the happiness of all involved.

With this in mind, we conducted a study to find out how the sleeping habits of the nation’s beloved pets are impacting their sex lives, as well as examining how many UK adults admit to putting their love for their pet above their partner.

How are the nation’s pets affecting Brits’ intimacy?

Woman sat with her arms crossed on the bed with a man laid down behind her

Upon analysing the data, it’s clear to see that our four-legged friends can act as a hinderance when it comes to having intimate moments with a lover, as four in ten Brits stated that allowing their furry friends to sleep on the bed has affected their sex life in some way (41%).

Though it seems that stubborn pets and their preferred place to snooze are not the only ones to blame, as the findings revealed that nearly one million UK adults across the nation (832,557)* admit to using their pet sleeping on the bed as an excuse not to have sex with their partner.

Emotions play a big part here too, it seems, as one in nine (11%) confessed that their pet’s sleeping arrangements have affected their sex life as they feel too guilty to move their pet when they find them napping on the bed. In fact, a fifth will only actually have sex if they can actually bring themselves to move their snoozing pet (23%) from the bed.

In terms of who’s more likely to move their sleepy pooch in order to make time for some much-needed intimacy, double the number of women (14%) admitted to having less sex because they feel guilty moving their sleeping pet from the bed than men (7%).

Though it’s not all bad news for loved-up Brits, as six percent of those surveyed said that their pet sleeping on the bed has encouraged them to get more creative with their sex lives, exploring different places around the home rather than moving the sleeping cat or dog.

Belfast residents have their sex lives affected the most by sleeping pets

Golden retriever laid on the bed with a grey blanket over its head, sticking its tongue out

When examining regional-specific data, Belfast was found to have the highest percentage of residents who said their pet sleeping on their bed had affected their sex lives in some way (61%), followed by Glasgow and Manchester (both 55%).

Also high up on the list of the cities were Edinburgh (48%) and London (47%), with almost half of residents within each of the cities having had their sex lives affected by their sleepy pets occupying the bed.

In contrast to this, Norwich had the lowest percentage of affected residents (17%), followed by Liverpool (26%) and Southampton (28%).

UK City	% of residents who say their pet sleeping on their bed has affected their sex life in some way
Belfast	61%
Glasgow	55%
Manchester	55%
Edinburgh	48%
London	47%
Bristol	44%
Leeds	41%
Cardiff	40%
Birmingham	33%
Nottingham	33%
Sheffield	32%
Newcastle	30%
Southampton	28%
Liverpool	26%
Norwich	17%

We spoke with Dennis Relojo-Howell, Managing Director of Psychreg, who shared his insight as to why we feel so guilty when it comes to our pets, and why it is integral to set boundaries:

“Pets hold a special place in our lives due to several reasons. First, they offer companionship and unconditional love – fulfilling our innate need for social connection. This bond can be so strong that it sometimes rivals our relationships with fellow humans.

“Second, as a myriad of research has shown, pets help reduce stress and anxiety by offering a soothing presence, which can lead to the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with social bonding and trust. This creates a positive feedback loop, further strengthening our attachment to them.

“Pets can also give us a sense of purpose, responsibility, and structure, contributing positively to our mental well-being. However, the deep bond with pets can sometimes affect our relationships, especially when our partners feel left out or when pets become a source of conflict.

“To maintain a healthy balance, it's important to establish clear boundaries with our pets. This can include designated pet-free zones or times when pets are not allowed on furniture or in specific rooms. Ensuring that you prioritise quality time with your partner without the presence of pets is crucial as it helps maintain the emotional connection between you and your partner, reinforcing the importance of your relationship.”

Brits are spending more quality time with their pet each day than their other half, study reveals

We also quizzed participants on the amount of quality time spent with their pet versus that spent with their lover and found that Brits are spending an average of seven hours quality time per day with their pets, versus six hours with their partner.

According to the findings, women are reserving more quality time for their pets (eight hours per day on average), than they are for their other halves (six hours). For men, it was a different story, with six hours of quality time for pets vs. seven hours for partners.

It’s no secret that pets love being spoilt and fussed over, but more than half of Brits (56%) admitted to giving their pets treats more frequently than they do their spouse, and a further half are more likely to use pet names for their four-legged friends too (49%).

More than a third (35%) also admitted to cuddling their beloved pet more often than they do their partner, and a further quarter (28%) even admitted to saying the words “I love you” more frequently to their furry friends!

After a long day at work or on a lazy Sunday afternoon, Brits up and down the country are partial to a quick nap in order to recharge their batteries. However, according to our findings, a quarter (27%) of the nation say they do this more frequently with their pet rather than with their spouse. A further fifth (16%) say they do this equally with both.

That said, 43% of UK adults say they’re more inclined to tell their pet off then they are their other half. For just a fifth (18%), it’s the other way around.

Activity	% of UK adults who do this more with their pet than their partner
Give them treats	56%
Call them pet names	49%
Cuddle them	35%
Tell them I love them	28%
Take a nap with them	27%
Kiss them	26%
Buy gifts for them	25%
Go out for the day together	22%
Go out for food and drinks	18%
Buy them clothes	15%

And they called it puppy love: Women are more likely to pick their pet over their partner

Woman and a brown dog sleeping together on a bed

As part of our study, we also wanted to uncover whether Brits would be more inclined to pick either their partner or their pet if forced to do so.

Interestingly, the findings revealed that the UK is a most certainly a nation of loyal pet lovers, with more than one in six UK adults having opted for their pets rather than their partners if forced to choose between the two (16%).

A fifth of those surveyed admitted they’d find it hard to pick between the two (21%), whilst almost one in ten said they’d rather go it alone and opt for neither (9%).

The data highlighted that women are more likely to pick their pet over their partner (18% vs.12% of men). Similarly, more women said they’d struggle to make the decision between their partner and their pet (24% vs, 17% of men).

The cities of Norwich and Sheffield had the highest percentage of residents who say they’d pick their pet over their partner if asked to decide (23%), while those living in Manchester would be more likely to leave both their pet and partner behind and go it alone (24%). Edinburgh was seen to have the highest percentage of respondents who would pick their partner over their pet if asked to make the choice (67%).

How to create all-important boundaries and encourage pets to sleep in their own space

Brown dog laid on a grey bed with striped bedding

As much as we adore our pets, setting boundaries and sticking to them is an essential part of being a responsible pet owner. And whilst it’s natural to want to ensure your pet feels both loved and appreciated, it’s integral we’re showing our partners how much we love and cherish them too.

If you are able to set clear boundaries with your pet in the bedroom, namely in regard to where your pet goes to sleep at night, this can be hugely beneficial to the relationship you have with your other half, especially when it comes to maintaining a healthy level of intimacy.

Following these rules may help to encourage your pet to sleep in their own space, and hopefully stay there:

Firstly, create a cosy place for them to sleep that they know belongs to them.
This is followed by setting and practising clear commands such as ‘go to bed’ or ‘on your bed’ that you say each night at bedtime can help both of you to get into a good routine.
When using the command, show your pet what you would like them to do and where you would like them to go.
Be consistent and ensure you’re rewarding them when they do follow your lead here.
And, if your dog leaves their bed during the night, ask them to get back onto their bed and offer a treat.
If they wake again, do not give them a treat, simply use the command and ask them to get onto their bed.

Conclusion

At Lords and Labradors, we pride ourselves on putting your pet's wellbeing first. This includes setting healthy boundaries in their home to ensure that your fluffy friends are properly trained and living the best quality of life.

However, this is not to forget that your own personal relationships should not have to experience strain due to your pet’s sleeping habits. After all, a happy home is the best environment for your pooch to reside in.

We hope that this study will prompt you to practice healthy boundaries with your pets, potentially by using some of the tips that are on offer in this article. Why not share some of your pet’s sleeping areas with us on Twitter?

Data Sources: 

Survey of 2,000 UK adults conducted in March 2023
* Almost 1million pet owners determined by -
52% of UK adults own a pet, according to PDSA data in 2022
52 % of UK adult population (53,369,083) = 27,751,923.16
3% of pet owners who said they use pet as excuse not to have sex. So 3% of 27,751,923.16 = 832,557

Schnauzer in a beige dog bed that says Teddy

FAQs

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14.04.25 April 14, 2025 FAQs

Most Popular Dog Names

Choosing the perfect name for your new dog is an exciting milestone. A dog’s name becomes a part of their identity, something you’ll use every day for training, cuddles, and fun adventures. If you’re a new dog owner looking for inspiration, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve compiled a list of the most popular dog names, along with some tips for choosing the perfect name for your furry companion. Plus, discover how you can make their name truly special with personalised dog beds from Lords & Labradors. Most Popular Dog Names Here’s a list of top dog names to inspire you, divided by categories to suit every pup: Popular Male Dog Names If you’re searching for good names for a male puppy, these timeless choices are crowd favourites: Teddy Charlie Cooper Buddy Henry Milo Bear Duke Finn Max These names are not only easy to say but are also some of the most common puppy names for male dogs. They’re perfect for any breed or size. Popular Female Dog Names The most popular female dog names often reflect elegance and charm. Here are the top picks: Bella Poppy Daisy Lucy Luna Molly Lola Rosie Roxy Coco These names are ideal for female dogs of all breeds and sizes, from tiny Chihuahuas to large Labradors. Cool Names for Male Dogs If you want something unique and stylish, these cool names for male dogs might be just what you’re looking for: Ghost Jax Ryder Blaze Titan Maverick Hunter Thor Apollo Diesel These good male dog names exude confidence and personality, perfect for pups with a bold attitude. Unique Female Dog Names For a female dog with a distinctive personality, consider these less common options: Nova Freya Willow Maple Indie Nala Sage Lyra Skye Stella These names are perfect for owners who want their dog to stand out in the crowd. Tips for Nicknaming Your Dog Once you’ve chosen your dog’s name, nicknames often come naturally. For instance, "Cooper" might become "Coop," and "Luna" might turn into "Lu-Lu." These nicknames can add a playful, personal touch to your bond with your pet. Top Tips for Choosing a Dog Name Picking the right name for your dog isn’t just about creativity; there are practical considerations, too. Here are some tips to keep in mind: Keep it Short and Sweet: Dogs respond better to short names, ideally one or two syllables. Names like "Max" or "Luna" are easier for dogs to recognise. Avoid Confusion: Choose a name that doesn’t sound like common commands. For example, "Kit" might be confused with "sit." Make it Personal: Think about your dog’s personality, breed, or unique traits. A playful pup might suit a name like "Buddy," while a regal dog could shine with "Duchess." Consider Longevity: Choose a name that you’ll love for years to come. Trendy names can be fun, but classic choices often stand the test of time. Test it Out: Say the name aloud to see how it feels. Does it roll off the tongue easily? Does your dog respond to it? Celebrate Their Name with a Personalised Dog Bed Once you’ve picked the perfect name, why not make it official with a personalised dog bed from Lords & Labradors? Our luxury dog beds are available in a range of styles, colours, and sizes, making them the perfect addition to your home. Personalising your dog’s bed with their name not only makes it unique but also adds a charming touch to their sleeping space. A personalised bed can also help new dogs settle into their environment, creating a cosy and familiar spot for them to relax. Explore our range of personalised dog beds here. Final Thoughts Choosing a name for your dog is a special moment that helps build a lifelong bond. Whether you’re drawn to popular dog names, cool names for male dogs, or unique female dog names, the most important thing is finding one that suits your pup’s unique personality. So, what will you name your new best friend? Let us know over on our socials!

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How to Train Your Dog to Use a Dog Flap

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Automatic dog flaps: Convenient for hands-free operation. Choosing the right pet door is crucial. For instance, a dog door for sliding doors is great for patio spaces, while a door with a dog door flap built-in is a seamless solution for standard doors. Preparing Your Dog for the Dog Flap Before you begin training, it’s essential to ensure your dog feels comfortable and safe around the new addition to your home. Here are some preparatory steps: Introduce the Dog Flap: Place your dog near the flap and let them sniff and inspect it. Praise them for showing interest and reward them with treats. Secure the Flap Open: Initially, prop the flap open so your dog can see through to the other side. This reduces any fear of the unknown and helps them understand its purpose. Use Familiar Scents: Rub your dog’s bedding or a favourite toy on the flap. This makes the flap smell familiar and less intimidating. Step-by-Step Guide to Training Your Dog to Use a Dog Flap Create Positive Associations: Start by encouraging your dog to approach the flap. Use treats, toys, or praise to create a positive association with the area. Make sure your dog is relaxed and in a good mood before beginning training sessions. Stock up on treats to praise your dog with here. Encourage Exploration: With the flap propped open, stand on the other side and call your dog. Use a cheerful tone and show them a treat or toy as motivation. Once they pass through, reward them generously. Repeat this step several times to build their confidence. Introduce the Flap Motion: Once your dog is comfortable walking through the propped-open flap, let it down slightly. Use your hand to hold it partially open and encourage your dog to push it with their nose or paw. Reward any attempt to move the flap. Practice Fully Closed Flap: Gradually work towards having the flap completely closed. Encourage your dog to push through the flap using their nose or body. You can use a favourite toy or treat to entice them on the other side. Build Consistency: Practice several times a day in short sessions. Consistency and patience are key to success. Over time, your dog will become confident using the flap independently. Troubleshooting Common Issues Fear of the Flap: If your dog seems scared, take a step back and focus on creating positive associations. Avoid forcing them through the flap, as this can increase anxiety. Reluctance to Push the Flap: Some dogs may be hesitant to push the flap open. Try using a lighter flap or temporarily securing it open to encourage movement. Confusion with Electronic or Automatic Dog Doors: For an electronic dog door, ensure your dog is wearing the sensor or collar required to activate it. Practice with the door in manual mode before introducing the automatic function. 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Signs of Affection in This Behaviour: Sitting or lying near you while you work or relax. Checking on you in different rooms of the house. Why It Matters: Your dog’s desire to stay close shows they find comfort in your presence and value your companionship. 7. Licking — The Canine Kiss Licking is one of the most common dog signs of affection. Whether they’re licking your face, hands, or feet, it’s their way of saying “I love you.” Other Reasons Dogs Lick: To show submission. To groom or soothe you. If you’re not a fan of licks, redirect their attention with a tasty chew treat or interactive toy. Why Do Dogs Love Humans? The bond between dogs and humans has evolved over thousands of years. Dogs are hardwired to form close relationships with their owners, and their affection stems from: Mutual Dependence: Dogs rely on humans for care, while humans benefit from their loyalty and companionship. Emotional Connection: Dogs are incredibly perceptive to human emotions and often mirror our feelings. Instincts: As pack animals, dogs naturally seek to form deep bonds with those they consider family. Understanding why dogs love humans can deepen your appreciation for your pet’s loyalty and affection. How to Strengthen Your Bond If you’re wondering, “How do I know if my dog likes me?” or “How to tell if my dog loves me?” the following tips can help reinforce your relationship: 1. Quality Time: Spend time playing games like fetch or tug-of-war. Go for regular walks to explore new environments together. 2. Positive Reinforcement: Use treats to reward good behaviour and show appreciation. Training sessions are a great way to build trust and communication. 3. Comfortable Spaces: Provide a dedicated area for relaxation, like a plush dog bed or soft blanket. 4. Grooming and Care: Regular grooming sessions help you bond and keep your dog healthy. Indulge with PetPlex for your dog’s next bath time, with 4 wonderful ranges to pick from there’s something for every pup. 5. Tasty Treats: Show your love by offering tasty treats to win your dog's affection You can really get their tails wagging with our range of natural Wild Deli dog treats, these will really appeal to their animal instincts. Do Dogs Feel Loved? Yes, dogs do feel loved! Their brains produce oxytocin when they interact with their owners, just like humans do. By recognising and responding to their affectionate behaviours, you’re not only validating their emotions but also strengthening the bond you share. Dogs express their love in countless ways, from wagging tails to following you around the house. By paying attention to these behaviours, you can see just how much your dog loves and trusts you. To make your bond even stronger, invest in quality products that enhance your dog’s comfort and happiness — like the luxurious essentials available at Lords & Labradors. Cherish these signs of affection and take the time to nurture your relationship. After all, the love between you and your dog is truly one of life’s greatest joys!

By Megan Willis
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24.03.25 March 24, 2025 Owning a Dog

How to Make a Cake for Your Dog

Celebrating your dog's birthday or a special milestone is a joyous occasion. What better way to include your furry friend in the festivities than with a homemade dog birthday cake? Baking a cake for dogs is not only a fun activity but also ensures your pet enjoys a treat that's both delicious and safe. In this guide, we'll walk you through a dog-friendly birthday cake recipe and provide tips on creating cakes that dogs can eat. Why Not Share Your Cake with Your Dog? You might wonder, "Can a dog eat cake meant for humans?" While it might be tempting to give your dog a slice of your own birthday cake, it's important to resist. Regular cakes often contain ingredients like sugar, chocolate, and artificial sweeteners, which can be harmful to dogs. To keep your pet healthy and happy, it's best to opt for a dog-safe cake recipe. Essential Ingredients for a Dog Cake When preparing a cake recipe for dogs, it's crucial to use ingredients that are safe and beneficial for them. Here are some dog-friendly ingredients to consider: Whole Wheat Flour: A healthier alternative to white flour, providing more nutrients. Peanut Butter: A favourite among dogs; ensure it's free from xylitol, an artificial sweetener toxic to dogs. Applesauce or Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture and flavour; make sure it's unsweetened and free from additives. Eggs: A good source of protein. Honey: In small amounts, it can add sweetness without the risks associated with sugar. Dog Birthday Cake Recipe Let's dive into a simple yet tasty dog cake recipe that your pet will love. Ingredients: 1 cup whole wheat flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (xylitol-free) 1/4 cup honey 1 egg 1/2 cup grated carrots (optional for added texture and nutrition) Instructions: Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a small cake pan. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and baking powder. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the applesauce, peanut butter, honey, and egg until well blended. Blend Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots if using. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean. Cool Down: Allow the cake to cool completely before serving it to your dog. Optional Frosting: Mix plain Greek yogurt with a small amount of peanut butter for a dog-friendly frosting. Spread it over the cooled cake. Tips for Making the Perfect Dog Cake Portion Control: Even though it's a special treat, remember to serve appropriate portions to avoid overfeeding. Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze portions for later use. Customisation: Feel free to substitute ingredients based on your dog's preferences and dietary needs. For example, use pumpkin puree instead of applesauce or add blueberries for an antioxidant boost. Alternative Cakes That Dogs Can Eat If you're looking for other cakes that dogs can eat, consider these variations: Banana Oat Cake: Combine mashed bananas, oat flour, and eggs for a simple, wholesome cake. Meatloaf Cake: For dogs who prefer savoury treats, create a meatloaf using ground turkey, vegetables, and eggs, baked in a cake pan. Sweet Potato Pupcakes: Use mashed sweet potatoes and rice flour to make cupcake-sized treats. Do Dogs Eat Cake? Yes, dogs can eat cake, but only if it's made with dog-safe ingredients. Avoid giving your dog regular cake intended for humans due to harmful components like sugar and chocolate. Can a Dog Eat Cake Safely? A dog can safely enjoy cake if it's specifically made for them using a dog-safe cake recipe. Always ensure that all ingredients are non-toxic and suitable for canine consumption. Celebrating with a Dog-Friendly Birthday Cake Creating a dog birthday cake is a wonderful way to show your pet how much they mean to you. Not only does it make the celebration special, but it also allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring your dog's health and happiness. Remember, the key to a successful dog cake is using wholesome, safe ingredients and serving it in moderation. Baking not your thing? We sell a range of dog friendly cakes from Barking Bakery which all the office dogs can confirm are super tasty! Final Thoughts Baking a cake for your dog is a delightful experience that brings joy to both you and your furry friend. By following this guide on how to make a dog cake for dogs, you're sure to create a memorable treat that celebrates your pet in the best way possible. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a cake that will have your dog's tail wagging with delight. Make your pups birthday extra special by treating them to some birthday presents from our dog birthday collection.

By Megan Willis
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