Valentine’s Day has gone to the Dogs – Literally

Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching and friends, lovers, husbands, wives, significant others and dog lovers – if they haven’t already – will hit the stores to get that special something for that special someone… or special dog in their lives.

While humans will be purchasing chocolate and flowers or jewelry for their human companions, dog lovers will be buying doggie treats for their furry pals. If those pals live in California, they can expect to get a really furtastic treat.

Here’s why.

Big Heart Pet Brands conducted a survey to find out how regularly dog parents engage in loving behaviors – kisses and regular cuddle time – with their dogs. So they surveyed 3,000 dog parents and found Californians love their dogs the most, followed by New Yorkers, Washingtonians, Tennesseans followed by Floridians at Number 5. Of the top 25 States, Arkansas came in at number 25 according to their Milk-Bone Doggy Love Index.

And so many of the pet parents in these states may never sleep in the proverbial dog house, as majority feel the best way to show man’s best friend love is by giving them a special treat. Hence 73 percent of dog parents buy their dog a gift at least once a month.

Milk-Bone also wanted to know how state residents view dog parents as potential romantic partners; how dogs help enhance their daily lives and how they plan to show love to their dog on Valentine’s Day.

The results?

• 39 percent of unmarried women prefer their dog to a date on Valentine’s Day
• 18 percent of single men say having a dog helps them get more dates

What’s more?

• 79 percent of women find men who love dogs more attractive
• 67 percent of men find women who love dogs attractive

So, if you’re feeling blue this Valentine’s Day, perhaps Clifford can fill in that void. And if that’s not enough, taking him down to the park or market may help you find your sweet Valentine!

Just in case you’re wondering, the top 25 U.S. states that love dogs most are:

1. California

2. New York

3. Washington

4. Tennessee

5. Florida

6. Massachusetts

7. Texas

8. Missouri

9. Ohio

10. Arizona

11. Pennsylvania

12. Michigan

13. New Hampshire

14. Kentucky

15. Montana

16. Colorado

17. Louisiana

18. North Dakota

19. Illinois

20. Delaware

21. Kansas

22. Wisconsin

23. Alabama

24. Virginia

25. Arkansas