A new study is out that says for many dog lovers, showing love to our pups is easier than showing it to our partners. Which could be bad this Valentine’s Day.
We all know how devoted we can be to our dogs, from wanting to spend as much time with them as possible, considering them our best friends, and even the many gifts and treats we shower our pups with. But a new study finds that dog lovers might actually find their love of dogs eclipsing their desire for romantic time with their partners this Valentine’s Day.
In a study put together by Rover, the people behind dog walking and sitting services, they determined that for dog lovers who are truly devoted to their canine companions, even relationships come second to their pups. In fact, 53 percent of the people who took part in the study admitted that they would consider ending a relationship if their partner had an issue or was allergic to their dog.
The study specifically focused on people who were already in relationships, or actively dating as dog owners. And it turns out that our love really is going to the dogs, and not our partners, which could spell trouble for those romantic Valentine’s Day plans.
Based on what the study was able to put together, 24 percent of people are more likely to take pictures of and with their dogs over their significant others, as well as family and friends. And another 25 percent of people are actually spending more money on their pups than their partners (sorry guys).
Another interesting thing the study determined was that about a third of the people who responded actually plan their weekends and time off around their dogs. This includes finding activities they can do with their pups.
On the romantic end of the spectrum, dog lovers are more likely to cuddle with their dogs than their partners, and they are even more willing to gaze lovingly into their pups eyes over their partner (yikes!). Perhaps the real kicker is the fact that almost 50 percent of the people who took part in this study have actually planned their Valentine’s Day celebration with their dog in mind, and not their actual partner.
And sure, the study had some good news for those of us who love our dogs, as it found that approximately 69 percent of the people would be more interested in dating a fellow dog lover. But on the whole, it seems as if Valentine’s day, at least in the world of dog lovers, is all about the dogs this year.
As a dog lover, I understand where many of these people are coming from. But, I have to admit, I was certainly surprised to learn that most people would rather celebrate Valentine’s Day with their dog than their partner. Romance may not be dead, but it certainly seems to be evolving in very weird ways.
What do you think of this new trend towards giving more of our love to our dogs than our partner? Do you think this is a new thing or something that has been happening for a long time? And would you rather spend Valentine’s Day with your dog or on a romantic date? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.