Millennials are known for a variety of things: lovers of avocados; killers of the housing market (along with diamonds, napkins, and American cheese); seekers of instant gratification; addicts to social media; and unfazed by laziness.

In fact, Millennials have been labeled so consistently and, quite often, negatively, that many try to reject the Millennial label completely.

While many of these labels are unfair (perhaps “lazy” is really just not a “workaholic”) or downright inaccurate (is it really possible to “kill” American cheese?), the most recent label to have been slapped across the foreheads of Millennials is one to wear with pride.

Who owns the most pets?

According to APPA’s generational report, Millennials have officially overtaken Baby Boomers just in time to snag the title for the generation who owns the most pets!

Not only do Millennials own the most pets, but additional studies have shown that they care for the pets they own in such a way that it influences the way they lead their own lives.

A poll by Trupanion highlights just how far Millennials are willing to go to prioritize their pets (or, as 43% refer to them as, “fur babies”).

Pets reign with millennials

Millennials are more than willing to let their pet determine where they live (40% have moved to ensure a more pet-friendly environment), where they eat (30% admit to selecting their local bar or restaurant based on whether or not they allow pets), and how they spend their money (more Millennials than ever are choosing to cook for their pets or purchase high-tech accessories for them).

Seeing how many important aspects of life are influenced by their adorable animals, it shouldn’t come as a surprise to hear that pets are changing the way Millennials approach relationships as well.

A pivotal part of dating successfully is pursuing relationships with people that have common values, priorities, and passions. For many Millennials, those values, priorities, and passions are very intertwined with their furry (or scaly or fluffy) friends.

Love me, love my pet

Successful relationships demand effort and acceptance, and animal-loving Millennials expect that effort and acceptance to extend toward their pets as well. If not? They aren’t afraid to walk away and keep searching for that, with studies showing that 12% of Millennials have reported ending a romantic relationship because of their pet.

Although dating has already been revolutionized by Millennials in many ways with the invention and increased popularity of mobile dating apps, the way their pets have further revolutionized dating sheds new light on what their priorities really are.

Connection and commonality matter to millennials

Animal lovers are known to be more patient, compassionate, nurturing, and generally happier people. Read more in Five Reasons Why Animal Lovers Make Better Partners.

With the growing popularity of niche, pet-focused dating apps (FetchaDate included), it’s becoming more apparent that Millennials aren’t flocking to dating apps fueled by the desire for convenience and instant gratification, but by a desire to connect with like-minded people who they can truly share a life with.

FASCINATING