Dog owners make the best managers, according to a new report. The study by Fourward Thinking, a management consultancy found that dog owners were rated more effective leaders by their staff.

The study found eight out of 10 dog owners were judged to be better managers than those without dogs. Yorkshire Terrier owners were found to be the best managers of all, followed by labradors. Poodle owners came out worst of all dog owners, with only two of 10 employees saying they good at their job. However, fish and reptile owners came out worst of all. with fewer than one in 10 workers rating them as ‘highly effective’.

Commenting on the survey, a spokesman for the Fourward Thinking Management Consultancy said: "Our research shows that dog owners make particularly effective managers because they are used to controlling, and if necessary disciplining. They must also look after their dog’s welfare. There are important parallels here with the workplace."