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In recent months, it has been difficult to scroll on TikTok without coming across a reference to the black cat and golden retriever dating theory. This cute, pet-based dating theory has its roots in the age-old concept of yin and yang, i.e. opposites attract. In a black cat and golden retriever couple, the introverted, brooding black cat is contrasted and complemented by the extroverted, fun-loving golden retriever.

While the black cat and golden retriever stereotypes are just that (stereotypes), most people do seem to find that they identify more strongly with the characteristics of one or the other. Curious? Check out this gallery to learn more.

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If you have been on TikTok recently, you may have noticed thousands of couples posting about their black cat and golden retriever couple dynamic.

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This dating theory, which has recently exploded on the social media platform, takes its name from common stereotypes associated with each of these beloved pets.

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The golden retriever represents an extroverted, loyal, and happy-go-lucky partner, while the black cat represents a more brooding, independent, and enigmatic partner.

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The basic theory as to why this dynamic works is the age-old premise that opposites attract; the qualities of each of these personalities supposedly complements the qualities of the other.

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While neither the black cat nor the golden retriever persona is concrete, most people find that they associate more strongly with one or the other. Let's look at some of the defining characteristics.

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Black cats tend to be more independent and enjoy time alone. Often, they need a long time to recharge their social batteries after spending time around others.

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Since new interactions can be exhausting for black cats, they often prefer to spend a quiet night at home, getting stuck in a good book or catching up on their favorite TV show.

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Another common characteristic of black cats is that they hate small talk. For people with this personality type, there is nothing worse than talking about the weather.

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Black cats enjoy deep, meaningful conversations. If there is none of that on offer, they would prefer to be at home minding their own business.

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Part of the reasons that black cats need so much time alone is that they usually have a wide range of quite niche interests to pursue.

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Whether it is a new hobby, or even just a new topic they would like to understand, a black cat’s interests are important to them; they provide them with a sense of security and comfort.

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People often use adjectives like "intimidating" or "mysterious" to describe black cats upon first meeting them. Indeed, black cats are discerning about whom they let enter their world.

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That does not mean to say that black cats are cold, however. In fact, once you befriend a black cat, they will make an incredibly warm and loyal companion.

▲The final key characteristic of a black cat is their remarkable ability to remain calm and collected. Indeed, black cats are often the grounding force in their relationships.

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Much of the time, golden retriever partners rely on their black cats to provide a sense of security, particularly in times of instability or chaos.

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Golden retrievers, by contrast, thrive on new social interactions. Meeting new people charges their batteries, rather than draining them.

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These people tend to have a charismatic energy that radiates through any room they enter. Often, they are referred to as the life of the party.

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People often use adjectives such as "warm" or "bubbly" to describe golden retrievers. This is because they make connections more easily than black cats.

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Golden retrievers normally wear their hearts on their sleeves, and they are not afraid to open up about their feelings. This helps others feel confident to do the same.

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Another key characteristic of golden retrievers is spontaneity. Since they love being out in the world, there is hardly any plan that this personality type will say no to.

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Whether it's a spontaneous trip with friends, or even just dinner and drinks that turns into a big night out, golden retrievers are always game, since they feel best when they are around the people they love.

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People with this personality type also find that they need a challenge. They are quick-witted, with great minds, and they love to tackle big ideas.

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This can mean that golden retrievers feel down or even depressed when they are stagnant. They need a little challenge in their lives to get them fired up.

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Finally, golden retrievers make the best cheerleaders. They have an innate understanding of what their partner needs emotionally and are the first to offer their support.

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If you support your partner by giving them a big hug and a pep talk after they have had a bad day, you are most likely a golden retriever.

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When it comes to being in a black cat and golden retriever relationship, there are both benefits and challenges. On the one hand, we can learn a lot from having a partner with different strengths than ours.

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For example, a golden retriever can teach a black cat how to be more open to making new connections, while a black cat can teach a golden retriever how to hold space for others.

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Done right, this can lead to a strong connection between the two partners and a mutual respect and understanding of each other’s differences.

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However, this dynamic can also be challenging if the two partners are unable to effectively communicate their needs.

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Indeed, conflict can arise when different levels of socialization are needed for each partner to feel stimulated and content.

Sources: (Verywell Mind) (PureWow)