Research suggests that women are more likely to form strong emotional bonds with their dogs, often referring to them as their "fur babies." This connection is rooted in the release of oxytocin, also known as the "love hormone," which is triggered by physical touch and affection.
: For many women, caring for a dog provides a sense of purpose and belonging, while the dog receives life-long devotion. Dogs as Romantic Storyline Anchors
Modern romantic comedies often feature the "blended family" dynamic, where a couple’s compatibility is tested by how their dogs interact. It is a humorous but realistic hurdle that mirrors real-life relationship struggles. Furthermore, the tragic loss of a dog in fiction is now treated with the gravity of losing a spouse, marking a significant departure from the disposable animals of old adventure tales.