Where do we stand on...

pooch presents?

We all know that dogs are man’s best friend and, as the festive period dawns, there’s no better time of year to reward their loyal companionship.

How to do so, however, is rather more up for debate. Namely, do you owe your canine overlords more gratitude than you’ve ever bestowed on your actual (human) family?

A new survey suggests so – and that the infantilisation of the nation’s mutts is now complete.

In fact, pooch presents have become so commonplace under our Christmas trees that in the recent poll of 1,000 dog owners, almost a third of respondents said they would spend more on gifts for their dog than they would for their beloved.

And men are the most likely culprits. Cheers, chaps.

From blinged-up bowls to adorable knitted woollen jumpers, the season looks set to be a fruitful one for our four-legged friends. But a fifth of those surveyed also admitted that they’ll be cooking their pampered pup a special Christmas meal. What’s dogspeak for “completely crackers”? Millennials are (surprise!) the worst offenders of all, with those aged 25-34 most willing to fork out big bucks on their fur babies.

But perhaps we should forgive the endless #dogmums of Instagram. Most likely, they’re trying to satisfy their nesting urges however they can, while stuck in rented abodes up and down the country.

Because if having a child itself isn’t feasible right now, then dressing up the next best thing may just bridge the gap.