Exploring the Impact of Pet Ownership on Dating Preferences
Exploring the impact of pet ownership on dating preferences. Pets, particularly cats and dogs, have long been cherished companions for many individuals. But did you know that your choice of pet can predict who you end up date and who influence who you’re attracted to? In this blog post, we delve into the intriguing realm of pet ownership and its connection to dating preferences, specifically focusing on the age-old debate between cat lovers and dog people. Another study from
Pet preference reveals personality traits?
It’s commonly believed that dog people and cat people have fundamental differences in personality traits. Research from Alba and colleagues (2015) found that dog owners tend to be more preferred on social-dominance scales and competitiveness than cat lovers. One theory is that dog lovers prefer dogs because they align with social-dominance preferences as they can be trained and tend to respect hierarchy. Another study from Guastello and colleagues (2017) found that dog lovers were higher on warmth and extraversion whereas cat lovers were higher on general intelligence and self-reliance.
Pet ownership, lifestyle and dating compatibility
Owning a pet comes with specific lifestyle considerations. Dogs require regular exercise, outdoor activities, and structured routines, making them a suitable match for individuals with an active lifestyle. On the other hand, cats are generally more low-maintenance, making them a better fit for individuals with busier schedules or a preference for a more relaxed lifestyle. These lifestyle factors can influence dating preferences, as individuals may seek partners who align with their preferred pet ownership style.
Do cat lovers/dog people care what their partner is?
Research from Gray and colleagues (2015) looked into how cat and dog owners reacted to people that dislike their preference or don’t like either. They found that women were more likely than men to discriminate based on pet preferences. If their date did not like their pet or pets in general it more significantly influenced their choices. Evolutionary theorists suggest this might be because women tend to view pet-preferences as an indication of parenting potential.
Do cats or dogs help you get a date?
Pets, particularly dogs, can serve as excellent conversation starters and icebreakers in social situations. Taking a dog for a walk in the park or attending dog-related events can provide opportunities for meeting new people and fostering connections. Similarly, shared interests and passions related to pet ownership, such as attending cat shows or volunteering at animal shelters, can create common ground and strengthen bonds between potential partners.
Allergies and practical considerations when dating
Allergies can significantly impact dating preferences when it comes to pet ownership. Some individuals may be allergic to cats or dogs, making it challenging to form relationships with someone who owns a pet that triggers their allergies. Practical considerations such as housing restrictions or lifestyle factors, such as frequent travel, can also influence dating preferences, as individuals may seek partners who align with their pet ownership limitations or preferences.
The variables of pet ownership, particularly the choice between cats and dogs, can play a fascinating role in dating preferences. Personality traits, lifestyle compatibility, emotional bonding, shared interests, and practical considerations all contribute to the complex dynamics at play. Whether you are a proud cat owner or a devoted dog lover, the important thing is finding a partner who understands and appreciates your connection with your furry friend. So, embrace the joy of pet ownership, respect different preferences, and keep an open mind as you navigate the exciting world of dating and companionship.
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Alba, Beatrice & Haslam, Nick. (2015). Dog People and Cat People Differ on Dominance-Related Traits. Anthrozoos A Multidisciplinary Journal of The Interactions of People & Animals. 28. 10.2752/089279315X14129350721858.
Gray, P.B., Volsche, S., Garcia, J.R., & Fisher, H.E. (2015). The Roles of Pet Dogs and Cats in Human Courtship and Dating. Anthrozoös, 28, 673 – 683.
Guastello, Andrea & Guastello, Denise & Guastello, Stephen. (2017). Personality Differences between Dog People and Cat People. Human-animal interaction bulletin. 2017. 10.1079/hai.2017.0003.
