Dating sites match up people, pooches

On these dating sites, a passion for pets will help you find more than just puppy love.

Sites like PetsDating.com and You MustLoveDogsDating.com have found a new niche as singles flock to computers and smartphones to find relationships, connecting dog owners to potential mates who enjoy long walks in the dog park and slobbery canine kisses as much as they do. Many of the sites encourage users to bring their dogs on first dates to break the ice or size up canine chemistry.

Many dating sites cater to religious, cultural and political preferences, but won't focus as heavily on interests like pets, music or travel, says Karen North, a professor of social media at the University of Southern California's Annenberg School of Journalism.