Do Pets Make Their Owners Happy? New Study Says They Do Not
Psychology Today
by Sebastian Ocklenburg, Ph.D.February 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A new study challenges long-held beliefs about the positive impact of pet ownership on mental health. While many assume that pets bring happiness and reduce loneliness, research published in *Applied Research Quality Life* reveals a surprising conclusion: owning a pet does not significantly affect life satisfaction, mental health, or general well-being. Conducted over 20 years with data from thousands of Australian pet owners, the study found that the benefits and drawbacks of pet ownership cancel each other out on average. While some individuals experience great joy from their pets, others face stress, anxiety, or financial strain due to pet-related challenges like aggressive behavior, illness, or high veterinary costs.
The study's unique design strengthens its findings. Unlike previous research, it used a longitudinal approach, comparing data between groups in Victoria, where renting with pets became legal, and other states without such policies. This allowed scientists to analyze the causal relationship more effectively. The large sample size of 495 pet owners, including those with cats, dogs, birds, horses, or fish, provided diverse perspectives on how pets influence well-being. Despite the varied experiences, the overall results showed no significant positive or negative impact on mental health across participants.
While this may seem counterintuitive to many pet lovers who believe their furry friends bring them happiness, the study highlights the complexity of human-pet dynamics. For some, pets are a source of unconditional love and companionship, while others struggle with the challenges of pet ownership. The findings emphasize that mental health outcomes vary widely among individuals, suggesting that pet ownership is not a universal solution for improving well-being. Instead, it may simply reflect broader life circumstances and personality traits.
This research matters to anyone interested in understanding the true impact of pets on mental health. Previous studies often relied on small samples or self-selected participants, which could skew results toward positive outcomes. By using a more rigorous methodology, this study provides a more balanced view of pet ownership's effects. It also underscores the importance of considering individual differences when evaluating the benefits—or potential drawbacks—of having a pet. For those who love their pets, this doesn't mean they should abandon them; rather, it highlights that happiness comes from within and is shaped by personal experiences and coping mechanisms.
Ultimately, while pets may not be the key to universal happiness, they do play a unique role in people's lives. Some find
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Originally published on Psychology Today on 2/21/2026