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30 Hilarious Yet Petty Reasons People Won’t Date Someone, As Shared By Folks Online
In many cultures, in the old days, traditions dictated that the bride and groom could only see each other for the first time at the wedding - and in fact, they had very few options. Especially considering that divorces in ancient times were not welcomed, or were generally prohibited per se.
Today the situation is completely different - and each of us, when choosing a partner to date, is guided by some of our own criteria regarding appearance, behavior or everyday habits. Criteria, or prejudices - depending on how you look at it. And so, in this viral thread in the AskWomen community, women (and, I guess, men as well) answer the question: “What is the pettiest reason you won’t date anyone?”
More info: Reddit
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#1
They have to be an animal lover. I can tell when someone doesn’t like animals and I couldn’t see myself with someone who doesn’t tolerate animals
Happy to be a wallflower 2 years ago
Yes because if we start living together you will have to tolerate my obsession with my animals
RELATED:
#2
Deeply religious people. Nope.
Captain McSmoot 2 years ago
You shouldn't date someone who has deeply held beliefs that don't jive with your own. Religion has little to do with it. There are people of the same religion who don't date because other deeply held beliefs don't align. They may both be deeply Muslim, but one is Republican and one is Democrat or because one is more of a homebody and the other is social. The aged "blame religion first" is a shallow excuse to throw shade on people who believe in something.
#3
I won’t date someone who wants me to watch them play video games. They want to play video games while I read or do something else in the same room, that’s great. They want me to sit there while they play video games and I have to actually pay attention to their Fortnite kills or whatever, absolutely f*****g not. It gives strong “Mommy look at me!” energy that I find a complete turnoff from an adult man.
If you look at the statistics of responses, you can perhaps divide them all into two categories: sincere and superficial. Because, for example, how can you recognize a bad person literally on the first date, or even before it? Of course, there are many verbal and non-verbal signs, but still, only an incredibly insightful person can correctly assess someone after talking with them for just an hour or a couple of hours.
#4
Any run of the mill average Joe who thinks all women are golddiggers coming to take their $45,000 annual salary ... 😆
Reeks of him watching too many podcasts from other dudes who also can't get laid.
Happy to be a wallflower 2 years ago
fr, alpha males always seem to assume that women are making less than them and going after their money even if they don't make that much
#5
when a guy treats their mom or their sister(s) like s**t. i’m looking at our future boy, and you aint it.
#6
I’ve had people give me s**t for this before, but picky eaters. And I don’t mean people who have allergies or other food issues. I can understand that. I mean grown a*s adults whose main course is chicken nuggets and French fries. Or make faces, or refuse to even taste a new dish. I have friends like that, but I don’t think I could date anyone long term.
Sonja 2 years ago
I am with you OP. I fully accept if someone doesn't like something. But extremely picky eaters who have no issues that explain it are difficult to be around and very exhausting. If all they ever eat are the same three dishes I'm out. It's different if they were autistic and have sensory issues, but even then I'm not sure I'd be strong enough to have a relationship with them.
You can also divide all the answers into the categories "Appearance" and "Social Rating", let's call it that. After all, nobody's perfect, and many of us initially judge people by purely physical attractiveness, which can completely overshadow even a person's negative social role. Just remember what Britney Spears once sang: "And this type of love isn't rational, it's physical..."
#7
Using "your" when they should use "you're". That really bothers me.
#8
If they're really hard into social media. I know it's much more of a girl type of thing, but guys can be clout chasers too. Or just really into their phone in general. Put the f*****g thing down and genuinely talk to someone.
Luke Branwen 2 years ago
Also men who are chronically on Reddit/4Chan are likely to have bigger issues than just social media addiction.
#9
If they don't use sheets or pillow cases on their bed. It's just gross. If I walk into a dudes room and all I see is a yellow stained mattress and a s****y blanket with no "it's laundry day" explanation, I'm out
“There is nothing strange about this, because a person is, first of all, a living being, and we perceive people around us not only with a cold mind,” says Irina Matveeva, a psychologist and certified NLP specialist, whom Bored Panda asked for a comment here. “Despite centuries and millennia of development of our civilization, there is still a lot of primitive stuff in our bodies. And often this only hinders us.”
“After all, those personal traits that would have been very valuable in the era of ancient people, and which still resonate in our subconscious, today can carry an obvious negative and sometimes even criminal connotation. And then, after we enter relationships, we sometimes ask ourselves: 'What were we thinking?' However, mistakes are inevitable - it’s important to simply learn from them, both from our own and from others,” Irina summarizes.
#10
People who breathe or chew or drink loudly give me the biggest ick. I have severe misophonia.
#11
I refuse to date anyone that says I’m cute when I’m mad. They always play with my emotions for entertainment.
#12
A beard that isn’t well-groomed. I need to see evidence that the edges are tended to, trimming is happening, whatever. Nothing turns me off like a pube-y beard.
Tabitha 2 years ago (edited)
Goes along with general hygiene. Beards and mustaches, as well as longer hair, all require extra effort to groom, if the goal is looking neat, clean, and presentable. Trim the beard and mustache, and ffs, keep them CLEAN! Same goes for the hair on your head—-well, anywhere, tbh. Shower regularly, and I don’t mean every month. Wash your junk and your asscrack while you’re at it. Do the laundry so you’re wearing clean clothes. Make your bed when you get up and change your sheets every week. Pick up your towels and hang them to dry after you have used them, and change your towels every week. Buy more than one set of sheets and towels, ffs. Clean your house every week, and pick up after yourself every day—-wash your dishes after eating and wipe down your counters in the kitchen and bathroom after you’ve used them. You want a woman to like you enough to spend time with you? Then make the damned effort to be presentable to her! This isn’t rocket science, ffs.
By the way, regarding learning from other people's mistakes - from this point of view, it is especially useful and interesting to read what other people consider a dealbreaker for a possible date and, who knows - maybe someone else's experience will really come in handy? So please feel free to scroll this list to the very end, and maybe add your own pettiest reasons to not start dating someone in the comments below. After all, exchanging experiences is no less great, isn't it?
#13
I don’t think I could date someone with a peanut allergy, I love peanut butter and don’t think I would want to live a peanut free life for anyone
#14
Someone who is over the age of 28 and uses the phrase “ Saturday is for the boys”
#15
As an adult, I seriously dated THREE guys named Dave. Someone named Dave would have to be an 11/10 for me to go this route again.
Angrykitten 2 years ago
A friend of my mind has dated 6 or 7 Amanda's. After the last breakup I suggested he move down the alphabet for the next attempt
#16
I have synesthesia (letters/words/numbers have colors) and I had a hard time dating anyone whose first and last name didn’t look synesthetically aesthetic. Happily married to someone whose name has colors that harmonize lol.
#17
Omg I feel bad for men reading these posts but of course I have my own. I get really disappointed when men have a purebred dog they bought from a breeder. Tells me they have no compassion for animals, want to boast wealth/status, and they waste money on stupid s**t. This perception is particularly heightened for having brachiocephalic breeds like bulldogs.
I am very aware I might be taking it too far on the meaning of it but my brain works in mysterious ways. Please don’t hate me.
Rocky Horror Panda 2 years ago (edited)
You do make a good point, Austin. However, buying from a breeder is supporting a horrible industry that treats animals in some of the most horrific ways. If you're not seeing a problem with this, you seriously need to open a web page showing you just how bad it is. You wouldn't be making a comment like that if you had any level of awareness. Sad.
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Happy to be a wallflower 2 years ago
I don't think buying from a breeder is a problem if there wasn't a shelter or if they wanted something specific for the dog to do (like herding, hunting, show dog, etc)
Sarah SH 2 years ago
I tried to adopt a dog and it didn’t go well. She was nice at the shelter, but seemed to instantly turn mean when I brought her home. I did everything the shelter told me to do, but had to bring her back. Kids upset. Then I went to a breeder.
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Littlebunnyfufu 2 years ago
Many people get certain breeds because they love animals but want one that's more hypoallergenic or need a dog that's good with other animals in the home or kids. We looked for a rescue but every single one had a note that the animal was bad with cats or bad with kids. This person is perhaps missing out on a gem. Oh well, OP has a right to have preferences.
Deborah B 2 years ago
Anyone who has a badly trained/untrained dog, that they aren't actively working on training. It doesn't need to be doing tricks, but if your dog is lunging at other dogs and/or people, jumping up on people, or not house trained, then you're a bad pet-parent. I'll also assume you're either lazy, irresponsible, or uncaring.
Shaunn Munn 2 years ago
So all living purebred animals should be shunned because they're just status symbols? Those animals already exist, and you don't think men (people in general) should give them homes? How do you know if those dogs aren't rescues from pet mills? So, the only animals who rate adoptions are mixed breeds? Did you read your message before posting? Do you want shelters to fill up with purebreds because you think they're too posh?
The Starsong Princess 2 years ago (edited)
I agree on brachiocephalic breeds, unless it’s a rescue. Breeding those dogs is wrong.
Lyoness 2 years ago
I have no idea why this was downvoted when the OP is just saying what they don't want in a partner. It's OK to disagree but don't downvote opinions, it's literally the point of the thread.
Ken Beattie 2 years ago
I assume it's being downvoted because it's a ridiculous opinion and it's unfair on a lot of people. It's petty but it's certainly not hilarious.
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I heart Boo-BI-es 2 years ago
I have had more rescue animals from shelters, than I have from breeders and I'm ok with someone that has been in either situation or both. As long as the animal is treated and cared for properly, and is living its best life, I generally don't have a preference. Many breeders are doing it for the love of the breed and to add joy to people's lives by providing the same kind of companionship that they have found. At my local MSPCA it costs $600 to rescue a dog 1 year or younger and $400 for a kitten a year or younger. If it costs this much to adopt a pet nowadays, many ppl will look into spending a little more possibly, but get an accurate past history and health records about the parents.
MisGra 2 years ago
Holy hell. Our shelter is like $100 for a puppy $40 when it's not a puppy. $30 cat. $50 kitten. With that price the animal is fixed, microchipped, has all their shots, etc.
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Fox with a Dragon Tattoo 2 years ago
This poster needs to be educated on reasona to have a pure breed or go to a breeder. They seem nice but ignorant on legit reasons. Not saying its always the case, most of my animals were shelter ones but wow
Bryn 2 years ago
Not only that, I want to know where my dog came from and how it's raised. I can't get that with a shelter dog.
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Pheline 2 years ago
I have specific dog breed requirements because of allergies so I need a certain type of dog. If a reputable breeder can get me that and the local (expensive ) shelters can’t I'm going to a breeder. As for cats- i’ve adopted 2 declawed adults (plus several other adults) and the declawed were each a lifetime of work. My next cat will be a kitten of a breed of my choosing… unless a cat adopts me first.
Janet Graham 2 years ago
The only way to improve a breed or keep it healthy is through good breeders with high standards. If there were no breeders, there would be no breeds.
bookbuddy 2 years ago
It makes me sad to think of a life with no happy golden retrievers, no fluffy bichon frise, no silly weimeraners--just a bunch of mid-sized brown dogs. I only get dogs from reputable breeders that are working to create healthy, gorgeous dogs. I also like a purebred so I know what I'm getting--I don't want a super active dog in my small home, it would be bad for them. I am a compassionate, not wealthy, not money-wasting dog lover.
A. Starhawk Hunt 2 years ago (edited)
We are all different. I’ve no problem with a purebred, my family was heavily into both dog and cat shows/breeding. But, they were ethical breeders good enough to have the #2 dog in their main breed in the world in the 80s. We never had short faced breeds except one random pug, but it was an apple headed breed, Long and Short Haired Chihuahuas. Carefully bred to get the look but not snaggle toothed or wheezy, or bulgy eyed. Do they love the animal, just have a thing the breed. As long as the animal is lived and properly cared for, from an ethical breeder, fine. Rescue is the best breed. I get whatever random mutt that looks at me right! Some folks like corvettes, but give me a Fiat Spider and I’m happy! Well, as long as it’s a ragtop.
Hester 2 years ago
Hmmm... where I am the adoption centres for dogs don't seem that busy any more. And some of the dogs up for adoption are pure anyway. I don't have so much of an issue with dogs from breeders (although the brachiocephalic breeds I am with you ALL the way). Cats on the other hand... There are a few breeds I would LOVE to bring home, but on those occasions when I have been looking to add a furry member to my home, I always feel too guilty about all the cats up for adoption to look for breeders. If I were in the market for man, then I agree, if they don't think adopting from a shelter was more important that getting the right designer kitten then that would be a no from me.
Midnight (she/her) 2 years ago
To be fair, it depends on the reasons for buying from a breeder. If it's just to show off money, then yeah, I get that. But it can be for a good reason too. My family used to rescue until me and my sister were born, and one of the rescues bit me pretty significantly, he was paranoid from past trauma and not very good with kids. We found a family to relocate him to without kids. Around the same time, our other dog died of old age complications. So my parents wanted a dog that would be good with kids, and they wanted a puppy. My mom did a lot of research into it and decided on a golden doodle (golden retriever and poodle mix) and the breeder picked out Sadie for us based on personality- she and one of her other siblings were both being considered for emotional support dogs- and she is the best. She doesn't shed, she's really sweet and playful, and she's always looking for love. Best dog we could ever have.
Jaime Borris 2 years ago
i grew up with shelter/abused dogs. there is no way in hell ill ever own one of my own. purebred from a good breeder is my choice always. im not saying shelter animals are bad but i have been bitten, had houses destroyed, been unable to feed animals because they wont allow me to feed them. i much rather look for a puppy that i trained from start to finish. im a giant breed dog kind of person even though i am small -i need to be able to control my dog. personally id ask them why they choose breeder over shelter there may be a good reason. sometimes its a show of wealth but sometimes its a choice based on their history.
Sven Horlemann 2 years ago
All good if they REALLY love their animals. And you can tell, quickly.
gary thompson 2 years ago
Children are animals. Children mine Cobalt for your phone battery. Hypocrisy is a turn off?
Hugh Crawford 2 years ago
I get where you're coming from, but for example, I'd love to have a great Dane. They're purebred but at the same time as the comment below me points out. They are a very over bread species so I wouldn't actually get one because of that but I'd like to.
Ashley Miller 2 years ago
As a mom of a special needs kiddo, a pediatric nurse, and a daughter(and granddaughter) of people who showed dogs, I think your ignorant because it's not that cut and dry. You could fall in love with someone who has border collies as part of the family business. Purebred and papered dogs that are exceptional! And you would throw that person away because they don't have rescue dogs... Also some purebred dogs have only blood work done. It's not cut and dry. Step outside the box.
Nikki Sevven 2 years ago
Also when the dog they've selected doesn't fit where they live, like Husky in Florida or a Chihuahua in Alaska.
pineapple87 2 years ago
There are reasons to get a purebred others already mentioned. In my case, I would never have imagined getting one, until it actually came to deciding that I want to take a dog. I looked into rescues, but where I live, they're basically all imported from other countries and therefore at least 6 months old by the time they come here, so you miss out on the most important window for socializing and getting them used to new things. Because I've never had a dog before, I came to the conclusion that I don't have the resources to deal with a dog that has potentially experienced trauma and might have behavioural issues. So, I decided to get a purebred puppy, so I know somewhat what to expect and can get the experience of training a dog. Perhaps later in life, I will then be equipped to take in a rescue.
Perfumista Perfumista 2 years ago
I don't have a problem with buying from a responsible breeder. My mom used to breed and show Dandie Dinmonts. No problem with adopting either. I have an issue with his buying a puppy from a store.
Scott Rackley 2 years ago
I've only had working dogs that were purebreds. Good luck getting a shelter dog to herd as well as a collie or aus shepherd
Allie Herz 2 years ago
That’s not entirely fair. My mom for example is a huge animal lover, with a heart of gold and fully supports the rescuing of bunnies I’ve done. That being said she has horrible allergies. When we got a family dog we had to get a purebred from a breeder so that we could be 100% sure it was hypoallergenic.
Duuuuuuude 2 years ago
I think it depends. Some people will get a purebred to try and keep health issues more predictable, and hopefully more manageable. Some go through a breeder to get a purebred as a puppy so there is no traumatic past they don't know about that could suddenly trigger around their kids.
Flora Porter 2 years ago
I understand wanting to prioritise rescue dogs (if that's what the OP prefers), but otherwise this is going a bit far. It's not irresponsible to go for a knowledgeable, licensed breeder.
ginshun 2 years ago
This one is really pretty petty. I totally understand wanting to know what you are getting when you get a dog. We have one purebred English Setter, along with an adopted mutt and adopted cat. I like rescuing as well, but totally understand somebody who gets a purebred. Especially if they are actually plan on training and hunting with the dog, or if you are getting the dog for a specific purpose - whatever it may be.
Justanotherpanda 2 years ago
I (F) chose mine specifically for the activities I want to do with her. I go for hikes, I need a dog that can hike. I bought from a breeder because they actually know what they are doing, minimise chances of deseases and hereditary problems. So please tell me what is wrong with buying a purebread bought from a licensed breeder?
Mark Bayliss 2 years ago
Really??? Because they have a purebred dog? I think some men have dodged a bullet with you!!
Natalia Girotti 2 years ago
I judge everybody that buys animals.... I don´t care, I rescue and care for a lot of animals, they are all perfect and can adjust to almost anything, if cared for. That bulls#@! about how breeds behave in a way or about size, don´t fly! If u love them and care for them, adopt, NEVER BUY!
Ruthanne Leonard 2 years ago
My purebred corgi cost less to adopt than one from the shelter....
#18
I wouldn’t date someone who smokes pot or vapes 🤷🏼♀️ or anyone super into astrology
Sara 2 years ago
There's absolutely nothing wrong with smoking pot, but of course it's fine to say you wouldn't date someone who does, personal choice. But weed is not the enemy and not everyone who smokes is a deadbeat. I have smoked practically every day for the past 30 years and I have a master's degree, make well over $100k/year, and have a solid family and social life. Don't judge us stoners 😊
#19
Anyone who listens to Jordan Peterson
Luke Branwen 2 years ago
This is so far the most reasonable one. Someone who takes the Misogyny Personified seriously can never be a good partner.
#20
If their ideal home temperature is lower than 70 degrees. I’m very cold natured and have lived with someone hot natured.
I can’t do it again. I refuse to live under a blanket in my own house or argue because they lowered the thermostat and thought I wouldn’t notice. It just makes us incompatible because it’s too big a deal to me.
#22
If we don’t have similar tastes in food. I once stopped seeing a guy because he didn’t like cheese.
#23
If they spell my name wrong in the initial messages on the dating app. It’s right there. Immediate unmatch
#25
Socks with sandals is my pettiest, but most strictly enforced, dealbreaker. I simply can’t be seen with you.
Marcellus II 2 years ago
I remember people trying to convince me of this in high school. Also that white socks outside of sports are a total 100% no-no. What reasons, grounds, justifications? Absolutely none beyond parroting others that said the same --- if you wear that, you're out of the herd. No other reason. So yes, I will go out of my way to wear socks in my sandals and if that steers me clear of you we both win.
#26
There’s a local bar that gives out smiley face stickers. Yeah idk it’s a thing I live in the middle of no where. Anyway, A lot of guys are covered them on their dating app profiles. Instant no. I don’t like party boys.
Also, if you have a “type” and I clearly don’t fit it it’s not happening.
#27
When I was single many years ago, I learned not to date anyone who was new to my city. I wasn’t interested in becoming someone’s personal tour guide, who would then use all the fun things I showed them to eventually woo another person.
#28
Anyone with a solo mustache (no beard) is an immediate no. You look like such a goober, sorry.
#29
If they're not a cat person
I don't necessarily dislike dogs, but the people who have them are most often very dominant and selfish in my experience
#30
As a native of Cleveland Ohio usa, I don't think I could ever date a Pittsburgh Steelers fan.
#31
Lips too thin
Completely hairless body
Massive football fan
Certain jobs- police officer, army, teacher
#32
I absolutely refuse to date anyone who has the same name as any of my exes. For the most part, they’re all common names, so not ideal. I’m in a relationship though so hopefully won’t be an issue again 😂
Sabina Cragg 2 years ago
I am Gen X and the name Michael is very prevalent among men my age. My ex is a Michael and one day, I was at the bank for work and this cutie with an Irish accent came in and went to the teller beside me. He was there for business and the teller asked him his name and he said "Mike". Nope.
#33
Omg. I have a list. But here are my top ones. He has Bad hygiene. He has never lived alone and his parents do everything for him. He is controlling or he has to be right on everything. He is vegetarian or a vegan. Specially a vegan. He refers to himself as alpha. He is a mommas boy. Smokes or is an alcoholic. Has cats and that’s mostly because I’m allergic.
#34
This list includes people who I won’t swipe on on dating apps but for me it’s:
-Lawyers. Naturally argumentative and I feel like they’d have a leg up if we got married and divorced.
-Guys who have fish or golf photos. The fish people know why, guys with golf photos have historically been too full of themselves for me.
-If their instagram handle is on their profile. I don’t have one and have no interest in just giving you more followers.
-Dog owners. Too much time needs to be dedicated to their dogs. Can never sleep at my house. etc. I’ve done it in the past and it was majorly inconvenient and annoying. I’m also just not a dog person and don’t want them all over me.
-Family member names
-Smokes pot/cigs. I don’t and people make it their personality. I also HATE the smell
hitex 2 years ago
😂 Lawyer here (& divorce lawyer no less) - I can honestly say from speaking w my colleagues, (1) we prefer to not argue at home, even to extent of letting our spouses win every disagreement bc its not worth it to argue & (2) we tend to roll over & settle own own divorces by giving our spouse way more than deserved, just so they go away & get it over - while there are exceptions, the non lawyer spouse gets a sweet a*s deal in arguing & divorces
What do you think ?
Ken Beattie 2 years ago
I think those ones match the title "petty and hilarious". It's the ones with serious reasons that don't belong on this list.
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Michelle Forbes 2 years ago
Most of these complaints from people would turn me off them tbh. Shallow and stupid reasons...tells me what I'd need know about them lol although..if you don't like animals...something wrong!
gary thompson 2 years ago (edited)
When I was 4 years old my dad threw some coin down the hall at a shopping center and we watched as everyone chased after it. That's when I learned contempt for everyone.
Dan St John 2 years ago
Many of these seem like fairly petty reasons to check someone off of your list. That will change, as you get older and more desperate.
Octavia Hansen 2 years ago
There's nothing wrong with having a dating preference. Usually saves a lot of time. And if someone you think is really worth it, things can change. Been my experience that if you have to ignore something that's big to you, it will come back and bite you. Having a list is not a bad thing. And don't belittle people who know what they want, or don't want. Dating is for learning . . . take the lessons with you.
Ian Reynolds 2 years ago
I just can't date people who have a one trait personality. Such as "I am a cat person" or dog person or vegan or exercise nut. I have no problem with that being part of them but not how if they use this to describe themselves when you meet them.
Ken Beattie 2 years ago
I think those ones match the title "petty and hilarious". It's the ones with serious reasons that don't belong on this list.
Load More Replies... Michelle Forbes 2 years ago
Most of these complaints from people would turn me off them tbh. Shallow and stupid reasons...tells me what I'd need know about them lol although..if you don't like animals...something wrong!
gary thompson 2 years ago (edited)
When I was 4 years old my dad threw some coin down the hall at a shopping center and we watched as everyone chased after it. That's when I learned contempt for everyone.
Dan St John 2 years ago
Many of these seem like fairly petty reasons to check someone off of your list. That will change, as you get older and more desperate.
Octavia Hansen 2 years ago
There's nothing wrong with having a dating preference. Usually saves a lot of time. And if someone you think is really worth it, things can change. Been my experience that if you have to ignore something that's big to you, it will come back and bite you. Having a list is not a bad thing. And don't belittle people who know what they want, or don't want. Dating is for learning . . . take the lessons with you.
Ian Reynolds 2 years ago
I just can't date people who have a one trait personality. Such as "I am a cat person" or dog person or vegan or exercise nut. I have no problem with that being part of them but not how if they use this to describe themselves when you meet them.
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