Puppy love true test of devotion
By Dr. Rolan Tripp
Knight Ridder News Service
A recent survey by the American Kennel Club revealed new trends in the American dating scene.
Many modern women seem to be applying the Dog Test to prospective suitors. Almost 90 percent said there was at least one quality in their dog that they would like to see in their boyfriend. Surprisingly, 34 percent agreed with the statement, "If my dog was a man, he'd be my boyfriend."
Spotting any man with a puppy was enough to open a conversation with 46 percent of women. Sixty-six percent of both sexes reported they would not date someone who didn't like their dog. On the other hand, 14 percent said they would continue dating someone they didn't like that much, just to spend time with a dog they liked.
A third of all men polled agreed on the one canine quality they wished was also true for their girlfriend, "In a good mood all the time." At least 15 percent of men also choose one of the following:
A fourth of all men said, "If my dog was a woman, she'd be my girlfriend."
Like magnets, dogs also have a reverse side that can repel. One in seven of the participants reported their significant other had become jealous of their canine relationship. Some reasons why included, "Because I dedicate so much time to my pet" (43 percent), or "I prefer to cuddle with my dog rather than my mate at night." (12 percent)
And if better comes to worse, 60 percent of dog owners said that in a divorce, they would want the dog. Many (11 percent) reported they would sue if necessary for custody of the very dog that might have brought them together in the first place.
Dr. Rolan Tripp is a veterinarian and animal-behavior specialist. You may view his work at www.AnimalBehavior.Net.
