In the world of Internet relationships, it seems the beloved Golden Retriever boyfriend is on the outs as the dominant Doberman boyfriend takes his spot as top dog.
In 2024, the idea of just being called a “boyfriend” is in the distant past. Now, apps like TikTok and Instagram are pushing forward animal-related titles relating to an individual’s personality.
What is a Golden Retriever boyfriend?
Golden Retriever boyfriends were the must-have item in 2023, much like the recent Stanley Cup or Trader Joe’s tote bag. Though exact definitions tend to differ between people, the hashtag has racked up thousands of clips on TikTok.
“A significant other that is easygoing and makes it fairly simple to maintain a happy and fulfilling relationship,” one definition in Urban Dictionary read.
Another suggested: “A soft, stupid, but overtly friendly boy. A term used by a female to describe a male companion who, like the average Golden Retriever dog, has at least 5 generations of parents who are siblings. His personality reflects this as he is oblivious, slow, but persistently happy.”
Golden Retriever boyfriends are more fun-loving and often have a “dopey” look about them, according to one TikTok.
Enter, the Doberman boyfriend
In contrast, a Doberman boyfriend is typically depicted as someone more physically intimidating with a hidden softer side. Think of pop culture’s typical “bad boy.”
“A male significant other that is bigger, and more physically capable to protect his companion, yet is loyal, accommodating, and submissive to his significant other,” Urban Dictionary said.
2024 is definitely the year of the Doberman boyfriend, as demonstrated by the tonnes of thirsty posts on apps like Twitter.
One user confessed: “Where’s my big scary Doberman boyfriend like I was promised?!”
“Why have a golden retriever boyfriend when you could have a Doberman boyfriend instead? I won tbh anyway Happy late v day,” another person wrote.
There is also the Rottweiler boyfriend and German Shepherd boyfriend, though those terms are not as popular. At least, not yet.
