What to Do When Your Spouse and Your Dog Don’t Get Along

In this article you will know the answer to the query “What to Do When Your Spouse and Your Dog Don’t Get Along“.

There is no doubt that marriage can be stressful.

Having a dog in your life means that you must make sacrifices especially when you’re living with another person.

You need to keep in mind that even if you are a die-hard dog lover the charm of a four-legged friend may not be enough to sweep your spouse off their feet.

Do you have any advice on how to coexist with your spouse and dog when they simply can not get along?

The problem is common in many households which is surprising.

However finding solutions to your dog-related tensions can be difficult if you do not know where to start.

I’ll cover a few things you should consider when dealing with a spouse who does not like your dog.

Communicate the Issues Effectively

If you’re in a relationship be sure to discuss your values with your dog.

You could get into trouble if your partner does not share your values for example if you want an indoor dog to sleep in your bed.

As an alternative if you are able to address the issue early on and reach an acceptable compromise your dog will feel more at home with your partner.

Address the Specific Problem

If the behavior of your husband toward the dog is causing conflict between you and your partner consider how the dog behaves.

Does there seem to be a pattern of behavior that triggers or escalates issues?

For example Rottweilers can be intimidating dogs generally so if your husband is afraid of them consider getting training or working with a trainer to teach them some obedience commands.

Alternatively you could try separation training which teaches the dog to stay in a specific area and ignore distractions until the owner calls or signals.

Be Aware of Physical Issues

Is either of you uncomfortable around the dog?

What does it do when you hold it in your lap or when it barks at you?

Dogs that are overly excited around people can be problematic in certain situations.

Ask the trainer about basic obedience training so the dog responds to commands and you both feel more comfortable.

Another issue that can cause conflict is the size of the dog.

If your spouse feels threatened or intimidated by your small dog it will not be at ease no matter how well-meaning or well-trained they are.

It may be unwittingly intimidating to have a big dog who is protecting the home.

Talk to your partner about this and figure out the level of security you are both comfortable with.

Be Aware of Environmental Issues

Both of you might be bothered by the smell if one of you has allergies to your dog.

If possible you could have the dog bathed more often or schedule grooming more frequently to alleviate the effects of allergies.

You may be able to minimize the dog smell in your home with grooming or environmental solutions.

Supply Alternatives for Your Dog

It is possible for dogs to act out of boredom or tension.

Make sure that your dog has plenty to do to occupy their time and that you do not encourage unwanted behaviors by giving them attention when they’re misbehaving.

Consider hiring someone to help you walk and exercise your dog if boredom or pent-up energy is causing him to act out in a way that upsets your spouse.

You might want to find a place that offers professional training if your schedule is busy or if you’re not comfortable dealing with your dogs energy.

Don’t Confuse Love with Loyalty

Some dogs are especially loyal and prefer spending time with one person over another.

You should understand that if your dog seems to be choosing you it does not mean the dog loves you or your partner more.

In actuality you are considered the alpha authority in the family pack which makes you the packs leader even over your partner.

If you do not want to be the leader of the pack in this way you should work with a trainer or behaviorist who can help you accept that position.

Your Dog Should Never Make You Behave Unreasonably

There are some owners who have difficulty saying no to their dogs.

It is time to give your dog some tough love if they are causing you to act out in an unreasonable way or if they seem to be manipulating you into doing things that are not healthy for the dog or the marriage.

A professional trainer can help you address these issues teach you how to assert yourself as a leader while still allowing you to enjoy your dogs company.

Foster an Open Communication Policy

You may not agree on every issue regarding your dog but set ground rules for communication.

How do you feel about talking to each other about the dog?

Is it okay to ridicule or criticize someone?

Whats the maximum number of times you can bring up a particular topic before its considered “brought up” and you agree to drop it?

Approach the Problem from a Positive Angle

You both need to feel good about how things are going with your dog if you want your relationship to be successful.

Consider ways to improve everyones mood by working together on training and pet care issues.

When getting out frequently during the day is difficult consider getting a dog walker to come by several times a week or bringing the dog to a doggy daycare center during the hours you’re not home.

Accept the Differences

There is no need to agree on everything with your husband and that is fine.

Donot let your dog cause conflict in aspects of the marriage where you should not have to argue. Keep the lines of communication open and discuss any issues.

Look for compromises that will make everyone happier instead.

Find a third party who can act as a mediator if you are not able to come to an agreement.

For instance ask your veterinarian or a friend who loves animals for advice.

When you’re having trouble discussing a particular behavior together speak with a professional to mediate the discussion.

Make Your Choice Based on What’s Best for Everyone Involved

Dogs and cats can sometimes live harmoniously together but not always.

Your responsibility as a dog owner is to do what is best for everyone in the household. You will have to find the right compromise if someone in your family does not want a dog.

Its usually best for someone who is allergic to have their own space in the house.

Dogs can be around many people with allergies.

Some families however may not be able to afford this.

It’s Not Just About Avoiding Arguments

Other situations occur without an allergy or child yet they’re still seems to be conflict.

Keeping everyone in the house happy all the time might seem impossible.

However you can work toward giving each individual in your house what they want by making room for your dog to have more than one place to stay.

It’s All About Training and Patience

It could just be a case of a lack of training if everyone in your family isnot getting along.

Everyone will know how to behave if they have a designated place and clear rules. In this situation patience is essential.

Your dog might feel punished if hes relocated from his spot in the living room when family comes over (even if its for safety reasons).

Investing time in training will help your dog improve with time.

Dogs need time to learn the rules and how they should behave in certain situations.

When everyone is clear about what they want from the beginning then its easier for your pet to learn when he has to go somewhere else.

As long as you can all agree that everyone in the house deserves a little space then your dog will also be able to enjoy his own place.

As far as the dog is concerned hes a member of the family.

He should be treated as any other member of your family.

As long as you continue to work toward an amicable solution everyone in your family will be happy healthy and content.

Final Thoughts About What to Do If Your Husband and Dog Don’t Get Along

You should take action if your husband does not want to be around your dog.

There are many ways in which a pet can improve your life and make you happier in general but if they make someone else unhappy there needs to be some compromise on both sides.

We have outlined some steps below on how to approach mans best friend with more peace even when he is averse to them!

Follow these tips for success to make your household a happier place to live.

Amanda (Author)

With over a decade of experience, Amanda is a distinguished dog trainer. Her expertise in canine behavior has transformed countless lives, fostering harmonious human-canine connections. Through compassionate and personalized approaches, she empowers owners to understand and connect with their furry companions, creating a legacy of joyful tails and transformed lives.

Osvaldo Maciel (Content Reviewer)

Osvaldo Maciel, a stalwart in the field with 14 years of experience, is a revered dog trainer. His journey is defined by a profound understanding of canine behavior, shaping unbreakable human-canine bonds. Osvaldo guides owners to connect with their beloved pets, leaving an indelible mark of happiness and transformation. His legacy shines through the countless lives he has touched.