The Average American Child Asks Their Parents for a Pet 11 Times Each Month
The Average American Child Asks Their Parents for a Pet 11 Times Each Month
And since they start asking for a cat or dog at age six, that adds up to 1,584 requests by the time they turn 18!
Do you have little ones incessantly begging you to buy a pandemic puppy? Or do you recall a time when you, too, were that little one begging your parents for a new pet? As it turns out, you're not alone. According to new research, the average American child will ask their parents for a pet 1,584 times before they turn 18.
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A study conducted by OnePoll and commissioned by Spin Master surveyed 2,000 parents of school-aged children and found that 74 percent of children have asked for a pet. But not just once or twice—on average, children ask their parents for a pet 11 times per month starting at the age of six. As for their pet preference, the survey says that 78 percent of those children ask their parents for a dog.
As the holiday season approaches, parents can expect to hear the phrase "can we get a dog?" even more often. In fact, 62 percent of children double-down during November and December and will ask their parents for a dog or cat up to 18 times a month.
Related: How to Introduce Your Kids to a New Pet
"It's a dream come true for a child to receive the ultimate surprise on Christmas morning—a puppy," said Jean Gomez, Vice President of Marketing, Spin Master. "As some parents remember from their own childhood, receiving a pet for the holidays leaves a lasting impression—the ultimate surprise and moment of pure joy can be delivered during the holiday season, without the responsibility (or clean up) of a live pet."
To all the little ones, you may just be in luck. Eventually, parents give in to their children's requests. Approximately two-thirds of parents will get their children a pet after three years of hearing the same five words; 82 percent of parents who participated in the survey said they believe it's important for children to spend time with animals.
If you don't feel up for the challenge of raising a new puppy or kitten, consider getting a toy or robotic pet instead. "A toy pet can bring so much excitement and joy, while also acting as a step toward getting a real pet," said Gomez. "And while some parents may say no when asked 'can we get a puppy', an interactive pet like Present Pets that barks and paws its way out of the box can deliver that magical experience for the whole family."
