Over three-quarters (78%) of pet parents admit they would break off a relationship if their furry friend didn’t give their partner the stamp of approval, according to a new survey by TrustedHousesitters.
The study of pet owners uncovered that domestic disputes aren’t just limited to the two-legged variety. In fact, 17% of pet owners confessed they’ve already called it quits on a romance because their pet was giving their partner the cold shoulder.
To help owners determine whether their partner is a great match or a potential cat-astrophy, TrustedHousesitters has partnered with vets to identify the telltale signs of pet disapproval and offer advice for fostering healthy relationships for all involved. They’re also sharing personal stories that demonstrate just how powerful a pet’s opinion can be.
A vet’s tail: When my dog rejected my girlfriend
Vet Dr Alex Crow of PetHealthGuru has witnessed firsthand the impact that pets can have on their owners’ love lives. “In my personal experience, my dog Maggie made it clear she wasn’t fond of my then-girlfriend,” he shares.
“Maggie was usually a friendly and outgoing Labrador Retriever, but whenever my partner came over, her behaviour changed drastically,” Crow explains. “She would bark incessantly, growl, and even snap at my girlfriend when she tried to approach me. Maggie would position herself between my partner and me, as if protecting me from a perceived threat. She would often refuse to eat or play when my girlfriend was around, which was highly unusual for her as a Labrador.”
The impact on their relationship was significant. Crow explains, “I found myself constantly trying to mediate between my partner and Maggie, which only led to more tension and stress. Maggie’s apparent disapproval of my girlfriend put a strain on our relationship.”
Despite his efforts with desensitisation and counter-conditioning techniques, Crow says Maggie’s behaviour towards his partner never fully recovered, and the strain remained. “Ultimately, we decided to part ways for various reasons, but Maggie’s disapproval was certainly a contributing factor.”
“As a veterinary surgeon and animal lover, I firmly believe that if a potential partner doesn’t like my pets or pets in general, it would definitely impact the chances of a long-term relationship,” Crow says. “Animals are a crucial part of my life, and I need a partner who not only accepts them but also embraces them as part of our family.”
Crow concludes, “While it’s not always easy to balance the needs of our animals with the demands of a romantic relationship, I believe it’s essential to prioritise the wellbeing of our pets. If a partner can’t appreciate and respect the bond we share with our pets, it may be a sign that they’re not the right fit for us in the long run.”
While Dr Crow’s experience highlights how pets’ opinions can impact relationships, the good news is that owners can take steps to encourage a positive relationship between their romantic partner and their furry friend.
Veterinary expert Rebecca MacMillan (BVetMed BSAVA PGCertSAM MRCVS) explains: “The first step is not to take it personally. With pets that are prone to stress or anxiety, any new person spending increasing amounts of time on their territory could cause upset. However, it is important not to ignore your pet’s behaviour. You should take steps early on to improve the situation otherwise things could spiral.”
Here are four signs your pet doesn’t approve of your partner:
Excessive marking or soiling indoors
MacMillan explains that pets may mark or urinate around a partner to establish their territory or show displeasure. “Never punish your pet for their behaviour,” she says. “Instead, reward all positive interactions.”
Body language
When a pet tucks or lowers its tail, it may be a sign of fear or discomfort. If your pet’s ears are consistently pinned back when your partner is around or if they have a hunched posture, it can also be a sign of unease.
Aggressive or avoidance behaviours
If a pet displays aggressive behaviour or consistently avoids a partner, this could signal they are not happy with the relationship. “Some pets may attack your partner if they get too close, and some may attack if your partner is too close to you. The latter indicates a protective or guarding-type behaviour that should be taken seriously and managed carefully,” says MacMillan.
Stress-related health issues
Stress-related health issues, such as excessive grooming, vomiting or diarrhoea could indicate that a pet isn’t comfortable with the relationship. “Forcing your pet to interact could make the situation worse, increasing their anxiety levels and reinforcing a negative perception of your new partner,” says MacMillan. “Instead, interactions should be on their terms, keeping things short and positive to begin with.”
To encourage a healthy relationship between your pet and new partner, experts recommend you:
- Introduce them gradually, allowing your pet and partner to meet in a calm and controlled environment.
- Encourage your partner to engage in activities that your pet enjoys, such as playing with toys, going for walks or cuddling.
- Encourage your partner to participate in daily pet care tasks, such as feeding, to help your pet see your partner as a caregiver and increase their bond.
- Reinforce good behaviour by rewarding your pet with treats after positive interactions.
For more information on ensuring an enjoyable environment for your pet, visit the TrustedHousesitters blog. To learn more about the TrustedHousesitters platform, visit https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/
