Swipe right for the dog? Inside India’s growing ‘pet-fishing’ trend

Indian daters are increasingly turning to an unexpected wingman to boost their romantic chances online, their pets. From playful huskies to grumpy Persians, animals are becoming strategic profile accessories as more singles try to stand out in a crowded swipe culture. 

A new survey by dating app Happn reveals that 19% of Indian singles have either posted photos with pets or thought about doing so to gain attention and spark conversations, a trend now popularly labelled “pet-fishing.”

While the practice may sound light-hearted, it underscores a wider shift in India’s dating landscape as people seek more genuine, low-pressure ways to connect.

What is pet-fishing?

Pet-fishing refers to the growing habit of prominently displaying pets, or posing with someone else’s, in dating profiles to appear friendlier, warmer and more approachable.

The images act as subtle character cues. They signal qualities like empathy, responsibility and emotional softness, often prompting potential matches to start conversations about the animals rather than personal details.

Why pet-fishing is gaining momentum

Pets have become emotional facilitators for modern daters. According to the survey, 21% of respondents consider them the best conversation starter, especially for first interactions that can otherwise feel forced or awkward.

A picture with a pet helps set an inviting tone. Twenty-six per cent of users say it makes someone look kinder, while 22% view it as an immediate green flag.

Younger daters, particularly those under 30, respond most strongly to pet imagery, seeing it as a sign of sensitivity. Older singles appreciate the gesture as well, though they tend to place greater emphasis on compatibility beyond shared fondness for animals.

Pet-friendly dating spaces are growing

Shifts in behaviour are shaping how and where people meet. While 33% still prefer traditional pet-free coffee dates, a rising number choose more relaxed outings involving animals.

About 25% opt for dog-walk meet-ups, favouring easygoing strolls in places like Lodhi Gardens in Delhi or Marina Beach in Chennai, where conversation can unfold naturally. Another 20% enjoy chatting over chai while bonding over pets, blending casual interaction with emotional comfort.

Cultural shift behind the trend

Pet-fishing reflects a broader evolution in India’s dating culture, one that prioritises emotional ease and openness. Small, sincere signals are replacing elaborate self-presentation as people lean into authenticity over performance.

While pets can help break the ice, they do not replace deeper compatibility. Instead, they offer a social bridge that makes early exchanges less daunting and more genuine.