More than two fifths (41 per cent) of Brits admitted to having more conversation with their four-legged friend than their beloved, while 40 per cent said they would be more likely to share their deepest secrets with their pooch than anyone else.

The study also found the average dog owner spends 47 minutes talking to their canine companion each day.

Brits even love their dogs so much they pose for more photos with them than with partners, friends and children combined, with the average owner taking six snaps of their pet a week.

And four in five (81 per cent) of animal lovers questioned said they felt happier after a chat with their furry sidekick, with 65 per cent admitting their dog is their best friend in the world.

The findings by tails.com, a new company which delivers tailor-made dog food, were released to mark the start of the Crufts Dog Show.

Dr Samantha Ware, tails.com`s lead nutritionist said: `We are a nation of dog lovers and clearly value the individuality, companionship and friendship that our own dogs provide.

`This week there are over 22,000 dogs competing at Crufts, examples of every Kennel Club recognised breed in the peak of health and condition all hoping to take home the "Best in Show" award for their owner.

`Whether they`re a prize winner or not, at tails.com we recognise that every dog is different and provide each dog with their own freshly blended tailor-made food that is as individual as they are.`

More than eight in ten (86 per cent) of respondents said their dog is always there for them when they need someone.

Almost every owner questioned (96 per cent) said their dog was a part of their family, not just a pet.

Nearly as many (94 per cent) said their dog cheers them up when they`re feeling down.

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