Dog owners across the South West are walking the dog – to get some peace and quiet, a study has found.

As well as exercising their pooch, 66 per cent believe this space is a vital de-stressing tool in the hustle and bustle of life, while time spent with mans’ best friend gives over three quarters of owners valuable thinking time.

The study done by OnePoll of 2,000 dog owners also revealed 66 per cent in the South West see it as a chance to escape from the stresses of everyday life.

Almost six in ten claim the daily dog walk is the only point in the day they are guaranteed some peace and quiet, with almost half saying getting some regular ‘me time’ is the best part of their walk.

It also emerged almost 15 per cent of dog owners have made a major life decision while out walking their pet, allowing them space to ‘mull over’ any problems or dilemmas they may be facing and finding a solution.

The study found the average dog owner in the South West heads out on eight walks with their pet during the week, with each one lasting around 30 minutes, effectively providing four hours of thinking time per week for the walker.