Why More People Are Choosing Dogs Over Kids

If you're childfree by choice, you’re not alone. In fact, it seems more and more people are opting out of parenthood, and it's not just because of career goals or personal freedom. One of the biggest key factors at play: money. When the cost of living just keeps skyrocketing, the decision to forgo having children and instead adopt a dog seems more rational, and more attractive, than ever.

A recent survey has unveiled some interesting trends among those who’ve decided not to have children. Nearly 74% of respondents, with an overwhelming 98% of Gen Z and young millennials, cited the high cost of raising a child as a significant reason they chose a dog over a baby. It’s not hard to see why... The financial burden of having a child is, well, massive. Between diapers, daycare, healthcare, education, and the basic necessities of life, the price tag on raising a child can easily reach hundreds of thousands of dollars. And that's before you even think about extracurricular activities, school supplies, or the dreaded college tuition.

Sure, dog ownership still costs money, but it’s not even close to the financial burden of raising a child. And let's be honest, dogs come with their own rewards, but without the nightmare of saving for a college fund.

Dogs Offer The Perks of Parenthood Without the Stress

According to the same survey, more than 80% of people who decided against parenthood also said that caring for a dog seems easier than raising a child. And it’s easy to see why. A dog provides the kind of companionship and emotional connection that many seek from parenthood, but without the sleepless nights filled with endless feeding, tantrums, or the pressure of shaping a future adult. Dogs are simple, and that’s part of the appeal. They need food, walks, love, and attention, and that’s about it. No one is asking you for a 10-page essay on their feelings about your parenting style or why you didn’t pick them up from soccer practice.

In fact, if you need a little space to recharge, no one is going to guilt-trip you about needing some alone time. Dogs understand the importance of a good nap. They’re there when you need them, but they’re also content to just chill out when you need your own time to relax. And the best part? They don’t demand Instagram-worthy birthday parties with 30 of their closest friends.

Financial Freedom: The New Family Lifestyle

Financial freedom has become a massive priority for many, especially in today’s economy. With the current housing market, rising rent costs, and student loan debt haunting every generation, the choice to stay childfree is a practical one. Add to that the ever-increasing costs of healthcare and the pressure to provide your child with every opportunity to succeed, and suddenly, a dog looks like the much better deal. The financial strain of parenthood is one of the leading reasons people are turning to dogs instead.

And let’s not forget the flexibility. Owning a dog means you can go on spontaneous trips, not have to worry about after-school care, and live your life on your own terms without the constant worry of how to stretch your budget even further. While you’ll still have to budget for vet bills, food, and maybe a cute dog sweater here and there, the overall financial commitment is far less than that of raising a child.

Are Dogs the Future of Parenthood?

When we look at the data, it's clear that dogs are stepping into the role of “family member” for many people who are opting out of traditional parenthood. For some, this shift in lifestyle is empowering. You get all the joy and companionship of being a "parent" without the burden of being responsible for a human life for 18+ years. Plus, with all the perks of a furry friend—unconditional love, loyalty, and no judgment when you eat an entire pizza by yourself—it’s easy to see why so many people are choosing dogs as their family.

So what does the future look like for those who choose the childfree path? Perhaps it’s not about the classic “nuclear family” at all. Instead, maybe we’re entering a world where pets become the new children. With so many benefits, less financial strain, fewer responsibilities, and less drama, it's no surprise that dogs are the new “child” for an increasing number of people.

Whether you’re cuddling up on the couch with your pup or taking them on a walk, you’re still getting all the companionship and joy without the expense and complexity of raising a child.

The Bottom Line?

At the end of the day, the choice to get a dog (or any pet, really) instead of having children is one that’s increasingly gaining traction, especially among the younger generations. It’s a practical, financial, and emotional decision for many people who want the perks of parenthood but without the financial drain and heavy responsibility of raising a human.

And for those who have embraced the childfree life, it’s just more proof that we can create fulfilling, meaningful lives on our own terms, without the need for traditional parenthood.

So, for anyone on the fence about parenthood, maybe a dog is the answer. It’s companionship, love, and responsibility, all wrapped up in one cute, four-legged package. Who needs kids when you’ve got a dog?