Singles Turn to Pet-Powered Matchmaking in Search of True Connection

For anyone who’s ever swiped right only to find out the other person “isn’t really a dog person,” it’s hard to come back from that. Dogs aren’t just pets — they’re family, routine, comfort, and joy all rolled into one wagging tail. And when it comes to dating, for many of us, that shared understanding can mean everything.

That’s where Frolly comes in.

A Fresh Take on Modern Dating

Launched in Charlotte, North Carolina, Frolly is a new dating app created specifically for “dog people.” Its name — a blend of frolic and jolly — hints at its purpose: to bring the fun (and maybe a little magic) back to dating.

The idea was born when founder and philanthropist Cindy Himmel noticed a pattern. Her daughter ended a budding relationship when she realized the man she’d met “wasn’t that into dogs.” Himmel saw something universal in that moment — a truth shared by millions of dog owners: compatibility sometimes starts at the end of a leash.

“She had met somebody at a bar,” Himmel told The Washington Post. “When I asked what happened, she said, ‘He wasn’t that into dogs,’ and I thought — that’s it. That’s the dealbreaker.”

Frolly officially launched in late October 2025, with plans to expand nationally in the coming months. For now, it’s free to join, but Himmel intends to introduce a modest subscription model — one that also gives back. A portion of proceeds from each city will go to a local animal rescue. In Charlotte, that partnership is with Forgotten, Now Family Rescue.

Himmel hopes that Frolly will help people rediscover the joy of connection — both human and canine. “When you meet someone walking their dog, it’s instant,” she said. “You already have something to talk about, and you light up.”

Why “Dog People” Connect Differently

Dog lovers have a shared rhythm to their lives. There’s the early morning routine, the weekend walks, the muddy car seats, the way conversations pause mid-sentence when a good boy walks by. Those daily rituals shape us — into people who are patient, responsible, and empathetic.

As Himmel puts it, “The characteristics of dog owners — trustworthy, honest, responsible — are the same ones we look for in a partner.”

It’s not just about finding someone who tolerates your dog. It’s about finding someone who gets it. Someone who knows that your dog’s happiness is non-negotiable, that plans might revolve around their comfort, and that love sometimes looks like letting the dog sleep diagonally across the bed.

Frolly vs. The Pack – How It Compares

TinDog
Originally a playful twist on Tinder, TinDog was created to help dog owners meet — whether for friendship, dating, or even setting up puppy playdates. Though its initial buzz was about the novelty, it showed the potential for merging social connections and dog companionship into one space.

FetchaDate
Billing itself as “the app where animal lovers meet,” FetchaDate takes a unique approach — users first create profiles for their pets (or future pets) and let those furry matchmakers do the introductions. The app’s lighthearted concept emphasizes that pet compatibility can often lead to human connection.

PetMeet
A newer entry to the pack, PetMeet is focused less on dating and more on social connection — linking pet owners for friendship, networking, and shared activities. But many users have reported relationships growing from casual meetups and shared dog park adventures.

What sets Frolly apart is its emotional core. It’s not just about convenience or novelty — it’s about authenticity. Himmel’s decision to build philanthropy into the business model reflects the kind of people she wants to bring together: kind-hearted, compassionate, and community-minded.

How It Fits in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is quickly becoming one of the best dog-friendly cities in the country, making it a natural fit for something like Frolly. Between the dog-friendly patios, growing list of pup-welcoming apartments, and the constant stream of outdoor events, it’s easy to imagine a Las Vegas launch thriving.

Imagine meeting for the first time at a rescue adoption event, a “Yappy Hour” at a local brewery, or a weekend stroll through one of the incredible parks. These are the kinds of organic, lighthearted moments that dog lovers cherish — and that Frolly hopes to encourage.

And beyond romance, apps like this foster something bigger: a sense of belonging. Whether you meet your match or just find new dog-loving friends, it’s all about connection rooted in compassion.

Love, Loyalty, and Leashes

Maybe love really is going to the dogs — in the best possible way.

Frolly and its fellow apps are tapping into a truth most dog lovers already know: when you open your heart to a dog, you open it to more joy, patience, and care than you ever imagined. And those qualities make for better relationships — with people, too.

Because when someone understands that your dog is family, they’re already halfway to understanding you.