New research released ahead of Valentine’s Day by The Kennel Club reveals that almost half of dog owners (45%) would prefer to spend time with their pet than go on a date, choosing to forego any potential romance this February, while one in three (33%) believe they are more compatible with their dog than their partner.
And with 54% also admitting they find more comfort in their dog than humans, it seems dogs hold a lot of sway for would-be suitors, with half (50%) claiming they wouldn’t be in a relationship with someone who doesn’t like dogs.
“The relationship that people have with their dog is so special,” said Bill Lambert, spokesperson for The Kennel Club, “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.
“However, like any relationship, things can go wrong – people can get swept away by love at first sight and find that the dog they chose on a whim, or because of its looks, doesn’t fit their lifestyle, and that leads to heartbreak all round.”
While the research shows two-thirds of owners (67%) believe their dog is a perfect match for their personality and lifestyle, one in five (18%) admit they wish they had spent more time researching.
One in seven say (15%) their dog doesn’t fit their lifestyle as well as they’d hoped, with a third (32%) saying they bought because of looks and 14% buying on impulse or because they saw a dog on TV, in a film or with a celebrity.
Bill added: “While there is no equivalent on the dating scene, a good first step to help you find your “paw-fect” partner is to visit Crufts, taking place at the NEC Birmingham in March. The Discover Dogs area offers a unique chance to meet more than 200 breeds, each with their own distinctive and predictable set of personality traits and characteristics, so that you can find one, perhaps that you’ve never considered, that is perfect for you.”
Crufts, run by The Kennel Club, is a unique celebration of happy, healthy dogs and of the loving relationship that they enjoy with their owners. Crufts is held from 6-9 March 2025 at the NEC Birmingham.
Viewers can follow all the action and highlights on Channel 4 and More4, and for further information and tickets visit Crufts website.