• Six in ten (62%) Brits said people’s relationships with their pets can be more rewarding than with their significant other
• Over a quarter (30%) of Brits are more likely to match with someone on a dating app if that person’s profile featured a picture with a dog or a cat
• More than half (62%) said the way someone treats a dog or cat would influence their opinion on whether they would want to date them
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, many are looking forward to spending time with their special someone, however new research from Battersea reveals six in ten (62%) Brits believe their relationship with their pets can be more rewarding than with their significant other. Women feel this particularly strongly, with 57% agreeing, noticeably higher than the 49% of men who said the same.
Pets also play a starring role in modern dating decisions, with almost two thirds (62%) of respondents saying the way someone treats a dog or cat would influence their opinion on whether they would want to date them at all. When it comes to dating apps, furry companions are proving to be the ultimate wingmen, with nearly a third (30%) of Brits saying they are more likely to match with someone online if their profile features a dog or cat. This trend is particularly prevalent among younger generations, where the figure jumps to over half (52%) among 25–34‑year‑olds and close to half (44%) for 18–24-year-olds. Brits most commonly associate pet owners with positive character traits such as being caring, responsible and trustworthy; the top three traits linked to both dog and cat owners in the research.
Rebecca MacIver, Centre Manager at Battersea London, said: “This research highlights what we already know at Battersea, that the relationship people have with their pets is one of the most rewarding and important bonds in their lives. Our expert teams go all in for every dog and cat that comes through our doors, getting to know them as individuals so we can give them exactly what they need, whether that’s specialist care or simply time, patience and affection. With 64% of Londoners saying the way someone treats a dog or cat would influence whether they’d want to date them, it’s clear that pets are playing a bigger role than ever in how people connect, from first impressions to choosing a partner.”
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Methodology:
The research was conducted by Opinion Matters, among a sample of 2,000 UK Nat Rep Respondents (18+). The data was collected between 04.02.2026-06.02.2026. Opinion Matters abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Opinion Matters is also a member of the British Polling Council.
For further information about this story, images or interviews please contact press@battersea.org.uk.
Notes to editors
• At Battersea we offer our love and expert care to dogs and cats who need us by rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals at our centres, and by sharing our knowledge and resources with rescue organisations around the world. We do this because we want to help every dog and cat, everywhere.
• In 2024 Battersea directly cared for 2,766 dogs and 2,454 cats at our three centres. We also helped thousands more through campaigning work, supporting other rescues and animal welfare advocates, and sharing knowledge and advice with pet owners.
• In addition to the site in South West London, Battersea also has two other centres based at Old Windsor, Berkshire and Brands Hatch, Kent.
• To find out more visit Battersea’s website or follow Battersea on Instagram @battersea or facebook.com/Battersea and TikTok @battersea