dogingtonpost.com

With Valentine's Day approaching, the talk of love and dating is in the air. What are you looking for in a mate?

Well, according to the American Kennel Club, many dog owners are looking to their furry friend to determine what traits are important to them in a long-term relationship.

Whether it is someone who enjoys hanging out at home and snuggling on the couch or someone who likes to exercise and socialize with others, many believe that we choose a dog who complements our lifestyle, and therefore looking closely at your pet's personality traits can help you decide what is most important to you in a future mate.

A survey of dog owners conducted by the American Kennel Club suggests that nearly 90 percent of women found at least one quality in their dog that they'd like to see in their significant other, while 34 percent of the women questioned agreed with the statement: "If my dog was a man, he'd be my boyfriend."

But what about the guys? Well, when the question was posed to men, 33 percent said the top canine quality they wished that women had was "always being in a good mood." Fewer men -- 23 percent -- agreed with the statement: "If my dog was a woman, she'd be my girlfriend."

"We know people love dogs, but we conducted this survey to find out just how much this fixation with Fido affected even their interpersonal relationships with other people," said Gail Miller, spokeswoman for the AKC. "Dogs are so important to their owners that they can, in many instances, make or break a relationship."

Top Canine Qualities Women Look for in Men:

 Perennial good mood (25 percent)

 Always willing to spend time with you (21 percent)

 Always up for cuddling on the couch (20 percent)

 Motivates you to exercise (12 percent)

 Eagerness to eat your cooking (11 percent)

Top Canine Qualities Men Look for in Women:

 Just as happy to hang at home as go out on the town (16 percent)

 Always greeting me enthusiastically when I get home (15 percent)

 Doesn't get mad when I want to watch sports (15 percent)

 Being up for anything I want to do (11 percent)

So, the next time you swipe right, look to your dog to ensure that your date will be successful.