Most Single Women Would Choose Their Dog Over a Man, Study Finds

Love is in the air this week, thanks to Valentine’s Day — at least if our dogs approve of whomever we’re dating. A study by Burns Pet Nutrition reported on by The Daily Mail surveyed over 2,000 pet parents about their dating preferences, and they found that it’s super important for a new beau to vibe with a pup. According to their results, nearly 60 percent of single women would choose to stick with their dog over their date (ahem, particularly their male date).

Many men prioritize their pups, too, though their numbers are a little lower; 41 percent of the male respondents would also choose their dog over a potential partner. In other words, about half of all people would rather spend time chilling with their dog than a romantic companion. It makes sense: Fifty percent of the survey respondents agree that their pup is a good judge of character. 

Millennials were the generation that felt most strongly pro-pup — 54 percent of 25 to 34-year-olds and 53 percent of 35 to 44-year-olds would ditch someone who was anti-dog.

New research by The Kennel Club backs these figures up. Their survey went a step further, asking participants whether they would choose to spend time with their pet or go on a date for Valentine’s Day — and 45 percent of pet parents opted to enjoy the holiday with their pup. As if that didn’t say enough, 33 percent of respondents actually said they believe they’re more compatible with their dog than their partner, and 54 percent admit they’re more comfortable with their pup than their sweetheart. Gender aside, pets are pulling ahead of humans.

“The relationship that people have with their dog is so special,” Bill Lambert, a spokesperson for The Kennel Club, said in a statement. “And if Valentine’s Day is all about celebrating love, there is — for many people — no love greater than the one they share with their dog.”

Laura Crotch Harvey, a nutrition manager at Burns, is suggesting a way forward for those who do want a human companion by their side: A dating app filter that weeds out pet lovers from non–pet lovers. Seventy-one percent of 18 to 24-year-old respondents agreed they would like this filter on their preferred dating app.

“Some people are dog lovers, some like cats and some prefer no pets at all — I don’t trust those people. But one thing is for sure: If you’re looking for a life-long partner, you want someone who will love your pet as much as you do — or has no desire for a furry companion just like you,” Harvey told The Daily Mail. “The dating world is hard enough as it is, and it seems that someone who doesn’t love pets is clearly something dog owners won’t compromise on — and why should they?”

In the meantime, while we wait on technology to advance, a word of advice to guys trying to find love: Make a good first impression with her pup. And don’t make her choose between the two of you… because she’s probably gonna stick with her one true love.