【May 13 "Dog Day" Survey】"Our Dog is Family" Becomes the Norm. Signs of Change in Life with Dogs, Realities Revealed

Sanko Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Kainan City, Wakayama Prefecture; Representative Director: Taiki Kadoya), which provides integrated development, manufacturing, and sales of lifestyle support products focusing on cleaning, disaster prevention, and pet supplies, conducted a "Survey on Life with Dogs and the Living Environment" through its pet care brand "SankoPet" in conjunction with "Dog Day" (established by the Japan Kennel Club) on May 13. The results revealed that over 80% of people consider their dogs "family-like beings," and while active consideration is given to leg and hip health, the existence of daily risks was also highlighted, with 66.9% experiencing slipping indoors.

Survey Outline on Life with Dogs and the Living Environment

Survey Method: Questionnaire survey conducted among participants at pet-related exhibitions Valid Responses: 493 people Survey Period: April 3, 2026 – April 5, 2026

Summary of Survey on Life with Dogs and the Living Environment

* Over 80% recognize their dogs as "family-like beings" * Approximately 99% prioritize their dogs in their lives and expenditures * 66.9% (about 70%) have experienced their dogs slipping indoors * 80.5% are implementing measures for their dogs' leg and hip health

Detailed Survey Results on Life with Dogs and the Living Environment

Q1. What kind of being is your dog to you? (Select the closest one)

In addition to "Like a child" (50.3%) and "A member of the family" (27.1%), responses such as "Partner/Companion" were also seen, revealing that over 80% perceive their dogs as "family-like beings." This result indicates that the positioning of pets is increasingly being seen as "a family member living together." It suggests that dogs are not just a source of comfort but are perceived as beings with whom life is shared.

Q2. Do you prioritize your dog in your life or expenditures?

Approximately 99% of respondents answered "Yes, I prioritize," indicating that almost all pet owners prioritize their dogs in their daily lives and decision-making. From this result, it can be inferred that the awareness of dogs as family is reflected in daily actions, and consideration is given in various aspects of clothing, food, and housing, such as diet, health management, and living space improvements.

Q3. Have you had any alarming experiences in your indoor life? (Multiple selections allowed)

It was revealed that about 70% of pet owners have experienced their dogs slipping indoors. This result shows that slipping is not an isolated case but a high-frequency phenomenon in many households. While it is generally assumed that indoors is safe, the reality is that flooring environments like wooden floors can be a burden for dogs. Additionally, in addition to slipping, comments were also heard about alarming experiences indoors such as "jumping off sofas or stairs," suggesting that risks are lurking in various aspects of daily life. As these actions are repeated daily, the accumulation of minor burdens could potentially lead to effects on leg and hip joints.

Q4. Are you currently taking any measures for your dog's leg and hip health? (Multiple selections allowed)

"Installation of anti-slip mats/carpets" was the most common at 80.5%, revealing that measures for flooring environments are widely implemented as a consideration for dogs' leg and hip health. In addition, measures such as "nail trimming and cutting hair on paw pads" (25.6%), "installing slopes for steps" (17%), and "taking supplements" (17%) were also observed, indicating care is being provided from both daily life and health aspects. A characteristic feature is that many owners take these measures not only after problems occur but also as a preventative measure, regardless of prior experience. As pet humanization and increased longevity progress, there is a clear trend of actively implementing measures for dogs' leg and hip health.

From this survey, it was revealed that the awareness of cherishing dogs as family is widely permeated, and care including consideration for leg and hip health is actively being provided. On the other hand, since about 70% have experienced slipping indoors, elements that can still be a burden exist in daily life. As dogs become more integrated into families and live longer, the importance of reviewing daily living environments for a more comfortable life for dogs is increasing. Precisely because we live together as "family," small considerations in daily life lead to peace of mind.

"Sanko Pet" focuses on these hidden burdens in daily life and aims to create a living environment where dogs and people can live together safely in the same space. We will continue to meet these expectations by developing products that support a comfortable life for dogs as "family members."

About Sanko Pet

"Sanko Pet" is a pet care brand that accompanies the lifestyles and life cycles of pets and their families, delivering comfortable living. Based on the real voices of customers.