In [[pornography]], zoosexuality is occasionally referred to as "'''farmsex'''" or or "'''dogsex'''" . The comment is "added "dogsex" to "farmsex", being the two terms commonly used in pornography)".

Separate from those whose interest is curiosity, pornography, or sexual novelty, are those for whom zoophilia might be called a lifestyle. A common reported starting age is at [[puberty]], around 9 - 11, and this seems consistent for both males and females. Those who discover an interest at an older age often trace it back to nascent form during this period or earlier. Lifestyle zoophiles often share some or all of the following common traits:Some form of social individualism. This can be either inhibitive (eg, shyness) or empowering (eg, independence of thought). Zoophiles tend not to be people who unquestioningly follow a peer group.An emotional respect for animals. Examples of human emotion towards animals in everyday society are common (google: pet memorials); in some cases this will become akin to a partnership, or become sexual. Belief that animals and humans are not so different in many ways, similar to the way that homosexuals feel the gender gap is not a major issue.A sense that humans can be deceptive and manipulative (even if only white lies), such people respect animals and their company is sought for not having this trait and for not requiring protective social barriers.

A "romantic" nature, the desire to have a bond for life, and a partner to devote oneself to fully. (Relationships of this quality are hard to depend upon with humans, as human partners often come to demand heavy compromise of the romantic relationship over time)Above average awareness of feelings ([[empathy]]). This may be cause or effect, it isn't clear which. In other words, they may be close to animals because they empathize well, or have developed empathic skills because of intimate closeness with animals. Either way, zoophiles are often described by those who do not realise their sexuality as being caring individuals aware of others feelings.Loneliness, insofar as others of like kind are hard to find.An open view on sexuality. Sex is commonly seen as "just part of life".
Zoophiles tend also to be highly accepting of bi/homosexuality, but less accepting of abusive activities.

A higher proportion than average of zoophiles appear to be engaged in supportive work for animal welfare, SPCA, conservation organisations, etc.That the ideal life would be an animal as lifelong mate, and a human as a companion (with or without the possibility of sexual relationship). Lifestyle zoophiles often experience the biggest issues of their chosen life as the inability to be open or accepted in their relationships. This is not usually [[religion]]-oriented, as many zoophiles find religion and zoophilia to be compatible. Another difficulty is the loss of loved ones, in a world that dismisses animals as secondary species.

Animals and humans differ in sexuality. For most animals, sex carries less importance, is burdened with fewer social and conceptual barriers, and is more an immediate than a conceptual experience. Therefore there are 3 trends amongst zoophiles, depending whether the human partner feels inclined to human-style relationships (human remains monogamous), animal-style relationships (both partners trusted to make own sexual choices, humans role is primarily as protector), or tries to blend the two in various ways.

Zoophiles may or may not have human partners. In some cases the human partner or family knows. As human partnerships are often seen by society as desirable and there is social pressure to be in them, both male and female zoophiles often marry and this forces many to keep their other lifestyle as a private affair.