The Differences Between Dog & Cat People 

I study led by Denise Guastello, an associate professor of psychology at Carroll University in Waukesha, Wisconsin suggests that “dog people” and “cat people” are quite distinct in their personalities. People who claimed to be a dog lover in the study tended to be more lively, energetic, and outgoing. Another fun fact is that the dog lover tended to follow rules closely. Cat lovers, on the other hand, were more introverted, open-minded, and sensitive. Cat people tended to be non-conformists, preferring to be questioned rather than follow the rules.

Study researching Guastello speaks more about the personality differences to the types of environments cat or dog people prefer. It makes sense that a dog person is going to be livelier, because they’re going to want to be out there, outside, talking to people, and bringing their four-legged friend around the crowd. Whereas, if you are more introverted, maybe you’re more at home reading a book, and your cat doesn’t need to go outside for a walk. Are you starting to realize the differences now?

The researchers surveyed 600 college students, asking whether they would identify themselves as dog lovers or cat lovers, and what qualities they found most attractive in their pets. Come to find out, more people said that they were dog lovers than cat lovers. About 60 percent of participants identified themselves as dog people, compared with 11 percent who said they were cat people. The rest of the population said that they liked both dogs and cats, or neither animal (how is that even possible?).

Furthermore, dog lovers found companionship to be the most attractive quality in their pet dogs, and cat people enjoyed the affection that they received from their cats. As you can see, there is a clear difference between dog and cat lovers. You should see for yourself if the pet owners that you know encompass the qualities mentioned above!