Are Dogs Taking the Place of Children in Nations with Falling Birth Rates?

Changing Demographics: The Rise of Dog Ownership Amid Declining Birth Rates

In many Western countries, a significant demographic shift is underway. As fertility rates continue to decline in the United States, Canada, Australia, and across much of Europe, an increasing proportion of households are welcoming dogs into their lives. Current data shows that one-third to half of households in these regions now own at least one dog—a figure that’s steadily rising even as fewer families choose to have children. With population projections warning of potential declines in decades to come, researchers are asking: Are dogs becoming substitutes for babies?

The Historical Bond Between Humans and Dogs

The relationship between humans and dogs is deeply rooted in our evolutionary history and social structures. For thousands of years, dogs have served as companions, guardians, and hunting partners, their domestication tracing back to multiple origins. Initially, this bond was largely utilitarian, formed out of mutual need for food, protection, and survival. Over time, however, dogs have evolved from working partners into integral social companions—roles that continue to expand as modern cultures embrace pet ownership.

Exploring the Social and Cultural Shifts

A recent theoretical review by ethologists Laura Gillet and Enikő Kubinyi from Eötvös Loránd University, Hungary, delves into the social and cultural forces behind the increase in dog ownership amidst falling birth rates. The researchers highlight that while social media may portray dogs as child alternatives—complete with dog strollers, birthday parties, and 'puppuccinos'—most owners do not treat their pets exactly like human children. As Kubinyi explains, “Only a small minority of dog owners actually treat their pets like human children. In most cases, dog parents choose dogs because they are not like children and recognize their unique needs as animals.”

Socio-economic factors play a key role. Western societies are seeing a sharp rise in the cost of raising children. For example, in the United States, the expense of child-rearing has surged by more than 35% in just the last two years, according to leading surveys. Meanwhile, societal expectations, pressures on women in the workforce, anxieties over future environmental and social conditions, and evolving family structures are leading many young adults to postpone or forego parenthood altogether.

Dogs as Companions, Not Direct Substitutes

Gillet and Kubinyi’s review confronts the narrative that dogs are simply taking the place of human children. They argue that humans have a broad capacity for nurturing, which extends across species boundaries. For many, the decision to care for a dog—often described as 'dog parenting'—results from a balance between the emotional rewards of companionship and the practical realities of modern life. As Gillet elaborates, “Despite the high dependency and attachment of dogs to their caregivers, for many, the commitments involved in dog ownership are seen as less burdensome than those required for raising children.”

Interestingly, some households find space for both children and dogs, supporting the notion that the human inclination to nurture is not restricted to our own species. In fact, having a pet can enhance family life, teach children empathy, and alleviate feelings of loneliness, especially among the elderly or those living alone.

Implications for Society and the Family of the Future

As societies age and grapple with isolation, especially in the wake of global health and wellbeing concerns, pets like Captain Jack and Juju—stand-ins for many beloved canines—are emerging as indispensable members of the family unit. These animal companions provide emotional support, help mitigate loneliness, and offer a sense of purpose, particularly for those who may not have children or whose children have grown and left home.

According to the researchers, this trend does not mean dogs are replacing babies outright, but rather illustrates an evolving understanding of what a family can be. Nurturing another living being, whether child or dog, fulfills important psychological and social needs. As Gillet and Kubinyi note, "Dog parenting can also coexist with child parenting, enhancing the idea that humans might have evolved to care for others regardless of species."

Conclusion

The increasing popularity of dog ownership in countries with declining birth rates reflects broader socio-economic and cultural shifts. Rather than seeing dogs as replacements for children, it is more accurate to view them as vital family members who contribute to the well-being, emotional health, and social cohesion of their human caregivers. As demographic trends continue to evolve, dogs—and other companion animals—are likely to maintain, if not expand, their place within the fabric of modern society.