Dogs have been mankind’s best friend for thousands of years. As pets, service animals, herders, hunters, and more, dogs contribute greatly to human society. However, not all cultures and countries treat dogs with the same level of respect and care. When examining how different nations view and treat dogs, some clear leaders emerge as being particularly dog-friendly.
Methodology
To determine which countries respect dogs the most, we can look at several factors:
- Laws protecting dog welfare
- Access to veterinary care
- Dog ownership rates
- Use of dogs for work/roles in society
- General cultural attitudes towards dogs
By analyzing research on these areas, we can rank countries on their overall level of positive treatment, care, and respect for dogs.
Countries with Strong Dog Protection Laws
One of the clearest indicators of respect for dogs is whether a country has enacted and enforces laws prohibiting animal cruelty and establishing standards for humane dog treatment. Some of the nations that have been legislative leaders in this area include:
United Kingdom
Animal welfare laws in the UK date back to the early 19th century. Today, the UK has comprehensive regulations covering animal abuse, neglect, breeding practices, microchipping, and more. There are also specific legal requirements for pet shops and kennels. Maximum prison sentences for animal cruelty were recently increased from 6 months to 5 years.
Austria
In Austria, an animal welfare law prohibits inflicting physical or mental suffering on animals. Dogs cannot be separated from their mothers before 8 weeks of age, tail docking and ear cropping is banned, and dogs cannot be permanently chained/tethered under law.
Germany
Germany’s extensive animal protection legislation includes bans on tail docking, ear cropping, and debarking surgery for dogs. Standards for humane training and care of working dogs are strict. Germans can also go to court over perceived violations of animal cruelty laws.
Switzerland
Swiss federal law makes neglect, maltreatment, and all forms of animal abuse illegal. Regulations cover housing conditions, socialization, exercise, training methods, and more for dogs and other pets. Switzerland also partners with animal welfare organizations to further education and enforcement.
Netherlands
The Netherlands was the first country to enact specific legislation protecting pet animals. Animal abuse penalties include fines up to 16,750 euros and 3 years imprisonment. Tail docking and debarking are prohibited except for medical reasons.
Best Countries for Veterinary Care Access
Measuring the availability and affordability of veterinary services can also indicate how much infrastructure a country has invested in caring for its dog population. Some top nations in this metric include:
United States
The US has one of the highest rates of pet dog ownership and spends more money on veterinary care than any other country. There are around 110,000 veterinarians practicing across the country. Average veterinary costs for dogs are affordable for most families at $235-$550 per year.
France
France has excellent access to high-quality veterinary medicine for dogs and other pets. There are about 18,000 private veterinary practices, and costs are subsidized by the government making care very affordable. French veterinarians must complete at least 7 years of training.
United Kingdom
There are over 18,000 registered veterinarians in the UK, making pet care highly accessible. Average annual veterinary expenses for dogs are between £350-£500. Extensive vaccination requirements also keep the UK dog population healthy.
Germany
With around 23,000 practicing vets, Germany has one of the highest proportional rates in Europe. Veterinary costs are subsidized for low-income families. Extensive pet insurance coverage also promotes regular preventative care for dogs.
Australia & New Zealand
These countries have excellent veterinary infrastructure to serve their large populations of pet dogs. Both countries have veterinary schools training new professionals. Australia has about 10,000 vets for 5+ million dogs while New Zealand has over 2,000 vets.
Countries with the Most Dog Owners Per Capita
Looking at dog ownership rates shows where dogs are an integrated and beloved part of family and community life. Some of the top dog-loving nations by ownership percentage include:
Country | Dog Ownership % |
---|---|
New Zealand | 68% |
Australia | 63% |
Switzerland | 52% |
France | 46% |
Italy | 46% |
High rates of dog ownership and bonding contribute to positive attitudes and treatment in these dog-loving cultures.
Countries that Rely on Dogs for Work
Another sign of respect for dogs is their widespread use and valued roles in society. Certain nations have a long tradition of dogs helping with important work. Examples include:
Germany
Germans have relied on “working dogs” to guard property, assist the military, aid the disabled, and more for over a century. Rigorous breeding and training programs are maintained for German shepherds, Rottweilers, Doberman pinschers, and other popular working breeds.
Russia
The Russian military has long utilized dogs for sentry, tracking, and detects The Russian space program has also extensively researched using dogs in space missions, collecting medical data on their tolerance of weightlessness and other conditions.
Greenland
Sled dogs are an iconic part of Greenland’s history and culture. They were essential for winter transportation and hauling supplies before snowmobiles arrived. Dog sledding remains an important tradition today during the annual Arctic Circle Sled Dog Race and for tourism.
Mongolia
For thousands of years, nomadic herders in Mongolia have depended on livestock guardian dogs to protect sheep, goats, cattle, and campsites from predators and thieves. Several native breeds, such as Mongolian Bankhar and Marmot Hunter Dogs remain prevalent today.
Belgium & the Netherlands
Belgium and the Netherlands have a strong tradition of using dogs for police and military applications. Mechelen in Belgium was the site of one of the first dedicated police dog training programs dating back to 1899.
Cultures with Innate Dog Appreciation
While not always reflected in statistics, some cultures seem to have an innate affection and appreciation for dogs bred from tradition and history. A few examples include:
Ireland
Dogs play a prominent role in Irish legend, literature, and history. Wolfhounds, terriers, and collies are often depicted as loyal companions. Today, Irish bred dogs like Irish setters and Irish water spaniels are beloved for their good nature and versatility.
Thailand
Soi dogs, often street or village dogs, are an integral part of the culture in Thailand, with many Thais feeling an obligation to feed and care for them. Relaxed Buddhist attitudes and a lack of religious taboos contribute to this affection for dogs.
Morocco
Sloughis, a Moroccan bred sighthound, is a national symbol and featured on Moroccan currency, stamps, and artwork. Dogs are welcomed parts of family life, often allowed indoors and treated warmly.
Philippines
Many Philippine culture groups have a long tradition of dogs as companions and allies. Pet ownership is rising, and dogs are often included in family activities and given affectionate nicknames.
Mexico
Small dogs, like Chihuahuas, are especially popular family pets across Mexico. Dogs frequently accompany owners in cafes, shops, markets, and on public transportation in dog-loving cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Oaxaca.
Surprising Cases of Dogs Held in Low Regard
While many countries treat dogs with great kindness, some cultures do not share this perspective. Dogs face significant mistreatment, restrictions, or religious taboos in:
Iran
Owning dog pets was banned in Iran after the 1979 Islamic revolution. Dogs are considered ritually unclean in the Shia Muslim tradition. Iran still has few anti-cruelty protections for stray dogs.
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has no legal protections against animal abuse. Among conservative Sunni Muslims, dogs are seen as impure. As a result, there is little pet dog ownership or breeding infrastructure present.
China
Although growing among younger generations, dog ownership was historically rare in China. Some areas still have bans on keeping dogs as pets. Animal cruelty laws are limited, and inhumane dog meat and fur trades persist.
Indonesia
Majority-Muslim Indonesia has little dog ownership outside of urban centers. An estimated 80% of Indonesia’s dogs are street dogs in very poor condition. However, sentiment is improving with animal welfare education efforts.
Conclusion
Reviewing different cultural perspectives and legal protections for dogs globally shows which countries are leading in canine care and respect. While rising incomes and public awareness are improving conditions worldwide, Europe, English-speaking Western countries, and select Asian nations stand out for their humane treatment of man’s best friend.
The UK, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands have been pioneers in enacting animal welfare laws. France, Australia, New Zealand, and the US also provide strong veterinary infrastructure. High dog ownership rates in societies like New Zealand and Switzerland reflect dogs valued status. Some nations like Russia, Thailand, and Ireland seem to have innate cultural dog appreciation. However, challenges remain in other areas like Iran, Saudi Arabia, and parts of China.
Continuing advocacy, education, and growing recognition of dogs’ sentience and emotional needs will further improve their lives worldwide. But nations with the most openness, affection, and respect for dogs are leading the pack in securing dogs’ wellbeing and standing in human society.