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More dog owners had an “instant connection” with their pet than with their own partners, according to a new poll.

The survey of 2,000 dog owners who are in serious relationships revealed that 87% were more likely to believe in “love at first sight” with their animals, compared to people.

80% of respondents said they had an immediate connection with their dog, compared to 69% who said the same for their partner.

Still, one in five said it took time to build a bond with their dog. A few had questioned whether they made the right decision in adopting their pet because they didn’t have an instant connection.

But the wait was worth it: 74% said the bond between them and their dog is stronger because they built it over time.

And, 76% said food is their “love language” and they take great care in feeding their dog.

Commissioned by The Honest Kitchen and conducted by Talker Research, the survey asked respondents if there was anything they wished they knew, ahead of adopting their dog.

Some respondents wished they would have known “the true investment of time” that comes with having a dog—and how “They are literally like raising children.”

“It feels like watching a child grow up, but you know you’re going to outlive them,” said one of those surveyed.

The love they have for their dogs surprised one respondent, who wished they’d had a clue about the amount of joy they bring, saying, “I would have gotten one sooner.”

In fact, despite the challenges, 83% of respondents said the pet ownership experience is even better than expected. And the same number agreed that while it’s messy and not always easy, they wouldn’t change their experience with their dog for anything.

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“There’s so much to look forward to when you have a dog, but we wouldn’t be honest if we didn’t acknowledge how hard it can be, too,” said Miki Dosen, CMO at The Honest Kitchen.

“It’s important to remember that no two pets are the same—so whether it’s your first pet or your fifth, pet parents are likely in for some surprises along the way.”

“At the end of the day it’s the full experience—both highs and lows—that make it one of the most meaningful relationships people have in their lives.”

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