Research by the Kennel Club to promote Discover Dogs (Earl's Court, 14th & 15th November) has found dogs help one in twenty people find love, and one in three to make new friends.

More than four in five said the mere presence of a wagging tail has provided them with the courage or excuse to talk to a stranger - possibly because two-thirds agree that people with dogs seem more friendly and approachable.

The research was carried out in October amongst a representative sample of 530 dog owners. It found that nationally,:

• 33% have made a new friend when walking their dog

• 4% have met a partner when walking their dog

• 64% of dog owners feel people with dogs seem more friendly and approachable

• 16% say that their dog is the only one that they can trust

• 40% say that their dog is their best friend

• 19% spend more time on social networking sites than they do outside socialising

• 46% rarely meet people outside of their existing social group

Caroline Kisko, Secretary of the Kennel Club, said: "This research confirms that dogs enrich our lives in so many ways and, as well as helping us to make new relationships, they still retain the title of man's best friend. At Discover Dogs we can help people to find the right dog for them and to learn how to give them the best possible life, so that we can return the favour."

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vet nurses.