Dogs in Newcastle and London were the most pampered pets over Valentine’s Day this year, according to new research.

Twice as many pet owners in the North East and London gave their pet a Valentine’s Day gift this year than the rest of the UK.

And the most pampered pets were dogs, with owners spending an average of £95 on them compared to £30 for cat owners, according to the research from Vets4Pets.

The research also revealed buying a Valentine’s gift for our pets may be more of a recent trend, with one in ten 18-34 year olds admitting to buying their pet a Valentine’s present compared to 1 per cent of 55+ year olds.

Dr Huw Stacey, vet and director of clinical services at Vets4Pets, said: “We are known for being a nation of animal lovers in the UK, but our research clearly demonstrates just how much we really care for our pets.

“While many UK pet owners often buy gifts for their pet, it’s important to note that gift giving does not directly lead to a happier or healthier pet.

“There are a lot of other important factors contributing to our pet’s mental and physical wellbeing, including exercise and diet.”

Vets4Pets’ research also revealed that large numbers of owners admitted to buying their pets presents on their birthdays, at Easter, Christmas and even Halloween.

Dogs benefit the most on their birthday, with 50 per cent of dog owners admitting to buying a present for their dog’s ‘special day’, compared to 29 per cent of cat owners.

And 46 per cent of pet owners admitted that they would spend more on their pet’s birthday present than on a close family member’s gift.

Rabbit owners are apparently the pet owners willing to spend the most on their pet’s birthday present, spending £47 on average on the gift, in comparison to £27 for dog owners.