Lauren Wire, a public relations professional in her 30s in New York, decided to delete online dating apps. Instead, she signed up as a volunteer at a local animal shelter, borrowing rescue dogs for daily walks.

"Online dating felt like another chore on a to-do list, while time with a dog brings me peace and no judgment", Wire said, humorously admitting these animals are "less talkative and less troublesome than men".

Lauren Wire prioritizes dog walks, finding them more relaxing than dates. Photo: @Lauren Wire.

Like Wire, many single American women are replacing nights out at bars with walks alongside animals from organizations such as Animal Care Centers of NYC and Best Friends Animal Society. After more than one year of being single, Wire admits to being exhausted by the search for a partner in New York, where an abundance of choices makes people forget to appreciate the present.

Sam Kersnick, 28, from Brooklyn, also abandoned "swipe right, swipe left" apps two years ago due to a loss of faith. For her, dates that cost money and energy do not bring as much joy as the loyalty of a dog.

This trend is supported by data. A study by a US kennel club in 2/2025 showed that nearly 50% of dog owners prioritize their pets over romantic dates. Notably, 33% of those in relationships admit feeling more compatible with their dog than with their partner.

Sam Kersnick, 28, from Brooklyn, abandoned dating apps due to a loss of faith, preferring to walk her pet instead. Photo: @Sam Kersnick.

Explaining this mindset, psychologist Dr. Shamyra Howard stated that dogs provide immediate emotional value. "The consistency, authenticity, and non-judgmental nature of animals help the human mind relax completely, something fleeting dates struggle to achieve", she said.

Beyond relieving stress, this habit sometimes opens unexpected connections. Cole Reifsnider, 30, met her fiance while volunteering at a shelter. The "Adopt Me" vest on the dog's back became the perfect excuse for a natural conversation between two strangers on the street.

Viveca Chow, who initiated the "dog dating" trend on social media, believes people learn a lot from these animals. Even though she is married, she still dedicates time to rescue dogs to receive unconditional happiness.

Minh Phuong (According to NY Post)