New research shows dogs can up owners’ dating game in Wales

PUPPY LOVE: NEW RESEARCH SHOWS DOGS CAN UP OWNERS’ DATING GAME IN WALES

And illustrates just how deep relationships are between two-legged and four-legged partners

• Two in five of dog owners in Wales would be more likely to go on a date with someone if they have a four-legged friend, and half wouldn’t date someone their dog didn’t like
• One in ten of Welsh dog-owners admit choosing internet dates based on whether a dog features in a profile picture
• And three in five wouldn’t be in a relationship with someone who didn’t like dogs
• Over a quarter of owners in Wales prefer their dog to their partner
• Meanwhile, two in three say their dog is their best friend
• While love is in the air, The Kennel Club is urging prospective puppy buyers to take their time and meet all 222 prospective four-legged partners in search for ‘the one’

New research released ahead of Valentine’s Day by The Kennel Club suggests that owning a furry companion can help two-legged singletons find a soulmate, and even increase their ‘swipe right’ success rate on dating apps. Two in five (40 per cent) dog owners in Wales admit they would be more likely to date someone if they have a four-legged friend, with one in ten (11 per cent) admitting they ‘swipe right’ if a dog appears in an online dating profile picture.

The research not only shows that dogs can considerably affect their owner’s dating game, but also underlines the unbreakable bond humans and dogs have shared for centuries. More than two in three (69 per cent) owners in Wales agree that their dog is their best friend and many admit relying on their dog’s instincts when looking for a human partner – with half (50 per cent) saying they wouldn’t date someone their dog didn’t like and three in five (59 per cent) confessing they wouldn’t be in a relationship with someone who didn’t like dogs full stop.

And it appears we are a true nation of dog-lovers, whose canine companions come first, as over a quarter (26 per cent) of Welsh dog-owners confess they prefer their dog to their partner, and nearly half (45 per cent) admit they would rather have a night in with their four-legged friend than to go on a date.

Bill Lambert, spokesperson for The Kennel Club, said: “Clearly there are many benefits of dog ownership, from being an ice-breaker when meeting new people, to providing love and companionship, but of course it isn’t for everybody.

“It’s worth remembering the similarities to human relationships; a canine counterpart is also looking for long-term commitment, which comes with compromises and changes to your life. And there are 222 different dog breeds in the UK with varying needs and traits, as well as distinct, individual personalities, so finding ‘the one’ takes time.

“A good first step to help find your perfect match is meeting prospective four-legged partners at Crufts, taking place at the NEC in Birmingham in a few weeks’ time. The Discover Dogs area with hundreds of breeds underneath one roof, alongside experts to help you to decide if you’re ready for the commitment that comes with a dog, and which four-legged friend you might be most compatible with, is the perfect preparation for a lifetime of love!”

More information on finding your ‘pawfect’ match can be found at thekennelclub.org.uk/getting-a-dog and tickets for Crufts, where you can meet all 222 potential four-legged partners from 10-13 March at the NEC Birmingham, are available at crufts.org.uk