Recent searches
Search options
Sometimes I feel really bad and guilty that my dog doesn't "obey" me, but then I think about what pet ownership means to me, and it's like, the only things I need her to "obey" me for are her well-being and safety and the well-being and safety of other people and creatures around me.
I do not need a dog who always does exactly what I say at any moment no matter what, and I don't think I believe in that mentality.
I've got no issue with service dogs—it's pretty clear that those dogs can live happy and fulfilling lives. We've literally created certain breeds of dogs who generally tend to do better when they are asked to perform/given tasks, and dogs who don't thrive in those conditions wash out of the programs, but there's no need for my pet to be constantly disciplined.
Some training is necessary for safety and peace, but I think I should probably stop feeling guilty that I don't keep this animal fully under my thumb every moment of the day.
This is one of the many reasons I prefer cats as pets in general. Other than teaching them to stay off things like food-preparation surfaces and not tolerating unprovoked biting/scratching, you really just let them do their own thing, and nobody makes you feel bad about that.
Dogs can be trickier because badly-behaved dogs can be very dangerous to people and other animals (and themselves!) but I still don't think that means total control.
The thing I do NOT let my dog do, which other "better" dog owners frequently do, is bother my guests. Dog causing issues? Dog can take a nap in her crate. I don't subject people to my dog's behavior just because everyone is "supposed to" like and be good with dogs.
(I have also taken great pains to make sure that being in her crate is not punishment. She trots right in there willingly whenever I tell her to, so I don't consider it a hardship for her to have a little "box time" when it's needed)
@artemis@dice.camp my biggest hate of pet normalisation is that many people feel entitled to acceptance of their pet by others, to the point where they become offended if you don't like having their dog jump up at you or try and harass you.
@Mair
I thought I hated dogs *for years* until I realized the bigger issues was generally the fact that their *owners* didn't have respect for my boundaries and feelings.
I tend to give off nervous vibes to dogs which agitates them and/or indicates to them that they can push me around, and I just don't think it's reasonable to be expected to have to dominate or befriend one just to be able to be left in peace.
@Mair
I usually let my dog greet my guests even if I'm going to put her in her crate after, because she's a lot calmer if she knows who is in the house, but I always ask when someone is about to enter my home for the first time whether they are okay being greeted by an enthusiastic dog. Not everyone is going to want to deal with that.