As a Disney fanatic, I have no shame in saying I have fallen in love with the Disney princes about a hundred times each, and they each own a little piece of my heart. They are dreamy, charming, brave, the list could go on… but do you know who brings even more to the table? If you immediately thought “Disney animals!” you are exactly right, and here’s why:

1) They are just as cute as (and maybe even cuter than) the princes.

Okay, Eric has those dreamy eyes and Eugene has that smolder, but come on. Meeko stuffing his face with food? Cuteness overload. Plus, the men aren't always photogenic...

2) They have animal instincts. They just know things.

Remember how Max knew that Vanessa (Ursula disguised as a human) was really bad news? Meanwhile, Eric went and got himself hypnotized… Pff, boys.

3.) They are always there for you, no matter what.

Pascal stayed in a tower with Rapunzel for years. Flounder helped Ariel whether she was a mermaid or human. Talk about loyalty.

4) Without them, the princes really wouldn't be able to save the day.

Sven bolted down an entire mountain with Kristoff to save Anna’s life. Same thing for Maximus: he ran across an entire kingdom and forest to take Eugene to Rapunzel. I’m pretty sure neither Kristoff or Eugene can run that fast.

5) They have the cutest personalities.

Animals are just naturally adorable and innocent. End of story. People? Eh, debatable.

6) Their innocence sometimes makes them a little naïve, and that just makes them even cuter.

Olaf just wants to experience summer… should we break the ice and tell him?

7) They are much more cuddly than a prince could ever be.

Spooning with your man is great, but cuddling with a dog or your pet tiger? Much more fuzzy and warm. Makes sense that Belle would rather be with a beast than with Gaston.

8) Some of them are magical.

The Cheshire Cat has evaporating skills and Pegasus was created from clouds… But Prince Naveen can mince mushrooms! Kinda...

9) They are the best sidekicks ever.

Abu helps Aladdin steal food to survive and Gus Gus and Jaq risk their lives to free Cinderella (not to mention walk up more stairs than I could even count).

10) Boys come and go, animals are forever. End of story.

Your heart can change paths with men (remember Pocahontas with the two Johns?), but your heart stays with your animals until the end. I mean, Meeko, Percy and Flit traveled continents just to be with Pocahontas.

Just to be clear, as I mentioned, my love for Disney princes runs very deep, but my love for Disney animals does too. I just thought it was about time we give the animals the credit they deserve and show that they can give the boys a run for their money any day.