Core Insights - The article discusses the increasing trend of people choosing to raise dogs instead of having children, reflecting societal changes and emotional needs [1][2][3] - It highlights the emotional bond between pet owners and their dogs, with many viewing them as family members or even children [4][5][6] Group 1: Societal Trends - Global birth rates have halved over the past 70 years, while the number of pet dogs is rapidly increasing, with projections indicating that by 2024, the number of pets in China will equal the number of children aged 0-4 [2] - In Hungary, approximately 70% of dog owners consider their pets as family members, with 16%-37% viewing them as their "children" [4] - In China, around 86% of pet owners seek emotional value from their pets, with over 70% stating that pets alleviate feelings of loneliness when family or partners are absent [4] Group 2: Emotional and Behavioral Insights - The purpose of dog ownership has shifted from utilitarian roles to emotional companionship, prompting interest from animal behaviorists and cognitive researchers [5] - A study by Professor Enikő Kubinyi suggests that while dogs cannot replace children, they can provide similar nurturing experiences with fewer demands [5][6] - The phenomenon of pet dogs being viewed as "fur babies" is fueled by social media, with a significant portion of dog owners creating dedicated social media accounts for their pets [9] Group 3: Economic Impact - The pet industry is experiencing significant growth, with the Chinese pet market projected to reach 300.2 billion RMB by 2024, and dog-related spending estimated at 155.7 billion RMB [10] - Despite economic downturns, 47% of Chinese pet owners report they will not reduce spending on their pets [10] - The commercialization of pet care is intertwined with emotional connections, as increased spending on pets reinforces the bond between owners and their dogs [10] Group 4: Cultural Shifts - The rise of "companion dog culture" reflects a shift in how relationships are formed, with many young people opting for pets as a substitute for traditional family structures [11][12] - Kubinyi's "Companion Dog Culture Escape Hypothesis" posits that people are moving away from traditional parenting responsibilities and redirecting their nurturing instincts towards pets [12] - The relationship dynamics between humans and dogs are evolving, with dogs taking on various roles throughout different life stages of their owners [21][22] Group 5: Welfare and Dependency Concerns - The article raises concerns about the well-being of dogs treated as family members, noting that this dependency can lead to behavioral issues such as separation anxiety [23] - The rapid expansion of the pet industry blurs the lines between love and consumerism, with many services catering more to owner convenience than to the actual welfare of the pets [24] - Understanding the behavioral needs and limitations of dogs is crucial in modern pet culture, as overprotection can hinder their socialization and adaptability [26]