Skip to main content

10 reasons dogs make the perfect Valentine’s Day dates

Ah, Valentine’s Day. It’s a time to receive sweet cards, eat semi-sweet chocolates, and post completely nauseating but obligatory odes to your partner on social media — unless you’re single and in no mood to mingle (or, worse, celebrating Valentine’s Day on Zoom for the second-straight year). The lack of a date for V-Day can leave you with feelings that are anything but sugar and spice and everything nice.

However, dog parents don’t need to look far for the best date in town. Our pups actually make way better dates than anyone on Tinder. Here’s why we’re swiping right on dogs for Valentine’s Day.

shih tzu on a white table with valentine's day collar
Image used with permission by copyright holder

They don’t care what you’re wearing on the date

If yoga pants and hoodies have become your new wardrobe staples, rest assured, your dog is totally cool with it. There’s no need to dress to impress around your pup. They love you just the way you are. Besides, it’s far easier to play with them in stretchy pants than in a stuffy suit or dress.

Recommended Videos

They’ll stare into your eyes all night with looks of affection

You love looking into your pup’s big, brown eyes, and the feeling is mutual. When your dog stares at you, they’re often telling you how much they love you. They think you’re way more exciting than anything they’d find on that fifth limb known as your iPhone. You won’t have to worry about them doom scrolling (or Tinder trolling) mid-date.

You’re guaranteed to be showered in kisses

Your dog is so pumped you decided to stay in with them, and they’re going to say thanks by showing you extra love and affection. For many of our furry friends, this means tons of wet kisses. Sure, it’s a little gross, but they mean so well. It’s also better than a bad date’s feeble attempt at romance.

You know they won’t stand you up

Your pup is loyal and reliable. They’re there for you in good times and in bad, and they wouldn’t have it any other way. You won’t have to worry about a last-minute cancelation. They’re so ready for this date and wouldn’t miss it for the world.

You won’t be disappointed at the end of the night

You and your dog go together like peanut butter and jelly. That’s why you two matched up in the first place. You know what to expect from a night with your dog, so you’re bound to go to bed with a smile on your face (and a warm puppy at your feet).

a woman napping on the couch with her Yorkie
Image used with permission by copyright holder

They’re warmer for cuddles

Our furry friends are cozier than a luxe blanket, which is great because February is freezing in many parts of the country. They’re also more natural snugglers than most humans we know. There’s no need to worry about them pretending to yawn just so that they can wrap their arm around your shoulder.

They’ll have what you’re having

When you’re hangry and on a date, the last thing you want to deal with is someone who spends an hour poring over the entire menu. Your dog will have what you’re having. (Just make sure it doesn’t have anything toxic or interfere with your pup’s actual kibble.)

They won’t judge your movie choice

Want to sob through Titanic for the third time this week? Your dog will be there to lick away your tears. They also won’t fight you for the remote.

They already love you unconditionally

You are your dog’s world. They’ve seen you at your best and at your worst and love you no matter what. You can be yourself and know you’re more than enough when you’re with them.

Nightcap? Why, yes

Your pet doesn’t have work the next day, a game to watch, or another date go on. If you want to extend the evening a little longer, they’d be much obliged. They’re also fine to turn in early.

Valentine’s Day can leave you feeling a bit bitter if you don’t have plans. However, sometimes it’s better that way, especially if you have a pup. Spending time with your dog on Valentine’s Day is actually much more enjoyable than hanging out with another human. Your dog knows you and loves you just the way you are. They’re simply happy to be with you and that you’re home with them, so they won’t complain about the movie you choose or the outfit you wear. They’re cool to go to bed at 7:30 p.m. or extend the date as long as they’re with you.

Topics
BethAnn Mayer
Beth Ann's work has appeared on healthline.com and parents.com. In her spare time, you can find her running (either marathons…
Discover 200 unique dog names that aren’t overdone
You'll never hear these dog names twice
A white puppy romps in the grass

So, you're bringing home a new dog. Congratulations! There are a lot of fun and memorable times ahead of you, but first, you'll need to make a few decisions. Some choices, such as what to feed your dog and where your friend will sleep, can take some trial and error, but there are some fun decisions you'll need to make, too. Of course, this includes giving your new BFF a name!
Unique dog names can be tricky to come up with, but it's worth the extra time and thought to give your pup a name that no one else will have. And if you do hear the same name over the internet or in your local dog park, you'll immediately have a new friend! To help you get started, we've compiled a list of 200 unique dog names, including monikers for girl dogs, boy dogs, and even pairs of pups. Will you find your new dog's name?

How to choose a unique dog name

Read more
Why Labrador retrievers are the perfect family dog
Here's why labs are so popular for dog-loving families
Three Labrador retrievers of different colors sit side by side in the grass

With their friendly exuberance and unwavering loyalty, Labrador retrievers are absolutely adored. Just ask the American Kennel Club, which listed this breed as the number one most popular breed for over 20 years in a row.
So, what makes these pups so popular? Many people love Labs for their athleticism and eagerness to run, which make them the best companions for jogging or hiking. Their friendliness makes them a great choice for families, too — especially since Labradors are known to be gentle with children.
As wonderful as these traits are, there are so many more Labrador retriever characteristics that will make you fall in love with this breed. You may not have heard of them all yet, but that doesn’t make them any less true. These are five more reasons to give your heart to a Lab, whether through foster, adoption or just saying hello to a cute pup you meet (just don’t forget to ask their owner first.).

Labs are built for the water

Read more
A complete guide to the adorable teacup Chihuahua
This is what you need to know before bringing home this pint-sized pup
Wonderful teacup Chihuahua enjoys the sunshine in the garden

You may look at a Chihuahua and think it’s the tiniest dog ever, but the teacup version proves even smaller (and potentially cuter). What this buddy lacks in size, they make up for in feistiness. You will never have a boring day when you spend it with a teacup Chihuahua! Before bringing home this little guy, you need to know a bit more about their backstory and special requirements. After all, having one of the smallest dogs out there will take some extra TLC — and expertise.
What is the history of the teacup Chihuahua?

Chihuahuas originally hail from Mexico and the modern version were bred in the 1800s. Of course, their ancestors, the Techichi dog, have lived in the Americas for thousands of years and cohabitated with the Aztecs and other people in the area.

Read more