Dating app users beware of the new 'dogfishing' trend

Is there anything more cruel in life than thinking a person has a dog only to realise that it’s in fact their friend’s dog? Probably, but as a dog lover it’s still pretty annoying.

We’re drawn into the cute faces of the dogs these people pose with, only to discover upon opening up the conversation that the dog belongs to somebody else.

Welcome to the world of dogfishing, a craze gaining momentum thanks to our penchant for our furry friends.

It’s a kind of deceit we just don’t need in our lives. Especially in cuffing season, when we have visions of walking your dog in a big warm coat, our new boots crunching over freshly fallen leaves. You’re there too, somewhere.

READ MORE: H&M is selling matching knitwear for you and your dog

You see, people are really quite savvy on dating apps nowadays. Research has found that stroking a cat or dog can reduce stress.

We also know that men feel emotionally closer to their dogs than other human beings. Armed with this knowledge, it’s no wonder we’re posing with them as if they were our own.

One particular study even found that women were more likely to give their number to men with dogs.

There’s a catch though; you actually have to have a dog.

READ MORE: Bride walks down the aisle with her eight rescue dogs

We make assumptions about people who have dogs. Perhaps we find them more nurturing or caring. Research has also shown that dog ownership increases the level of attractiveness of the dog owner.

Again, and we can’t stress this enough, you do need to actually own the dog.

We have to admit, it’s almost impossible to swipe left on a cute picture of a dog but next time you do, take a moment to pause and think about whether that dog belongs to the person, or to Maud and John down the road.

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