Couples admit affection – and intimacy – is taking a back seat
London, February 2025: New research from Rover.com reveals that Britain’s most unexpected relationship “spoiler” isn’t an ex, an overbearing in-law or a hectic job – it’s the dog. Thirty-eight percent (38%) of Brits say their four-legged friend has turned them into a third wheel in their own relationship.
The competition for love is fierce. Over half (53%) of couples say their dog now receives more daily affection than their partner. In fact, nearly two thirds (63%) say their pet demands attention whenever affection is shown to their other half, so much so that 39% say they now consciously manage or even ration affection to avoid sparking canine jealousy.
Even homecomings have become a test of loyalty – 40% say the dog is the first to be greeted at the door, proving that tails often trump romance, while almost a quarter (24%) admit their pet gets the full welcome routine – treats, cuddles and praise – before their partner even gets a hello.
Many dogs have even picked a “favourite”, with 60% of couples saying their pet is noticeably pawsessive over one person, showing behaviours such as following them from room to room (67%), insisting on sitting next to them on the sofa (44%) and even lying next to them at night (36%).
In fact, dogs are the biggest bedroom blockers, with 45% saying they have interrupted moments of intimacy, including cuddling (74%), kissing (67%) and even more amorous affairs (50%).
And once in the bedroom, the dog isn’t leaving quietly. Over a third (36%) say their dog insists on sleeping on the bed, while 43% admit their dog often stares at them when they’re trying to be romantic. As a result, 42% end up locking their four-legged friend out during more private moments – only to be left feeling guilty, with 28% admitting those moments are accompanied by the soundtrack of whining or scratching at the door.
However, puppy love runs deep – 37% of dog owners admit their dog is really their one true love, with the same number (37%) opting to stay in and curl up with their four-legged friend this Valentine’s Day.
Top 10 ways dogs refuse to be left out
- Always sits between you on the sofa (37%)
- Physically nudges their way into personal space (35%)
- Follows one partner everywhere (34%)
- Inserts themselves into hugs (33%)
- Claims the middle of the bed (29%)
- Climbs onto laps whenever the mood gets cosy (23%)
- Acts unsettled or annoyed when they’re not getting attention (20%)
- Refuses to respect closed doors (18%)
- Positions themselves between you during conversations (17%)
- Stares intensely during intimate moments (15%)
Adem Fehmi, Rover’s Canine Behaviourist comments: “Dogs have a remarkable way of becoming the centre of our world, so it’s no surprise they sometimes make themselves part of moments we’d rather keep private. They’re deeply social animals who form strong emotional bonds and simply want to be close to the people they love – even if that closeness can occasionally feel a little too close.
“For many owners, their dog really is their greatest love, soaking up attention, affection and time – and most of us are more than happy with that trade-off. That said, helping dogs feel comfortable with gentle boundaries is an important part of caring for them. Clear routines and reassurance can help dogs feel secure and relaxed, even when they’re not involved in everything, supporting a happy relationship for everyone.”
For couples ready to reclaim date night without leaving puppy dog eyes at the door, Rover gives you peace of mind that your four-legged friend is getting personalised care when you can’t be there.
ENDS
Notes to Editors
A Rover survey of 1,000 UK dog owners who are in a relationship conducted via Pollfish in January 2026.
*For the purpose of this press release, Brits refers to dog owners only
About Rover:
Founded in 2011 and operating in 18 countries, Rover® is the world’s largest online marketplace for loving pet care. Rover connects dog and cat owners with loving pet care whenever they need it. Millions of services have been booked on Rover, including pet sitting, dog walking, in-home boarding, drop-in visits, and doggy day care. To learn more about Rover, please visit https://www.rover.com/uk/ or see our press room here: https://www.rover.com/uk/blog/press/
For more information, please contact: Rover@brands2life.com