Owners of Yorkies stated they laughed the most per day – around 10 times on average – and would describe themselves as the happiest. This is in contrast to Staffordshire Bull Terrier owners, who on average crack a smile just four times a day.

The study of 2000 pet owners by flea and tick preventative Frontline Spot On looked at the personality traits of dog owners around the UK.

To some people, money equals happiness, so if you want to get rich quick it may be worth investing in a pug, with owners of these furry friends earning the most. Households with this breed take home a healthy average wage of £85,000 a year, while Great Dane owners are at the other end of the spectrum with an average annual wage of £35,000.

However, when it comes to spending the most time and money on our four legged companions, it is two exotic breeds that take this prize. Despite their tiny size, Chihuahuas demand the most attention from their owners, who admit to spending a whopping 16 hours a day by the side of their pet. Dalmatian owners lavish the most money on their dogs, spending a sizeable £17 a week on treats and toys for them.

And for those looking for the key to a long and happy marriage, it appears the secret may be in purchasing a pug. Not only are these dogs associated with wealth, but the survey showed that their owners are in the highest proportion of those reporting themselves happily married. However, most people in a relationship – but looking to get out of it!- said they owned a quintessentially British dog breed, the Bulldog, while singletons were most likely to own a Labrador.

Christine Male, Marketing Manager for Frontline Spot On, said: “For many of the nation’s dog owners, their dog is more than just a pet but a real part of the family too! It’s interesting to note how our choice of dog can help define what sort of person we are.”

* Nielsen Data – based on value sales 2013/12