Redditor Seeks Advice On Handling Boyfriend's Fear Of Something Happening To Their Dog If Taken Out

"He said he sees no point in the dog needing to go elsewhere besides our yard. "

Damjan

• Published in Interesting
• February 12, 2024

In the life of a pet owner, few dilemmas strike as deeply as finding the right balance between protecting our furry companions and granting them the freedom to thrive. This story, emerging from the heart of such a quandary, shines a light on the struggles of a couple torn over the care of their herding breed dog.

At the heart of their contention is a fundamental disagreement on whether to shelter the dog from the world or allow him the freedom to explore it. OP is caught in a baffling situation where her boyfriend insists that their small to medium-sized dog should never leave the house, citing fears of injury or attack by other animals.

This overprotective stance clashes with the dog's inherent need for exercise and socialization, especially given its herding breed's characteristics. Despite the dog's successful outings and interactions with other dogs, a couple of incidents—a minor attack in their yard and a subsequent limp after a hike—have led her boyfriend to double down on his restrictive stance.

OP is at her wit's end, trying to advocate for a more balanced approach that allows their dog to engage with the world beyond their backyard. The friction between the couple highlights a deeper issue: the pet care decisions in the face of fear, anxiety, or past traumas.

The boyfriend's reaction, possibly rooted in a genuine concern for the dog's well-being, veers into irrationality by denying the dog the very experiences that enrich its life. The OP's efforts to introduce moderation and reason into the equation reflect a common struggle many pet owners face—how to protect without overly sheltering.

OP's boyfriend thinks it's too risky to take their small-medium-sized dog out of the house, he's concerned about potential accidents or harm from other animals or people.

Her boyfriend was furious when he found out that she took him for a walk with another dog.

Their dog was once attacked in their yard, with no serious harm, but her boyfriend is fearful of other dogs and avoids them.

OP took the dog hiking a few months ago and he came back limping her boyfriend's blamed her for the limping.

OP disagrees with her boyfriend about sheltering their dog, she believes the dog should experience more than just the house and yard, while the boyfriend thinks otherwise.

Despite their dog having fun on various outings, her boyfriend is fixated on past incidents like limping and minor attacks.

OP appreciates the supportive advice and empathy.

At the next vet visit, OP should discuss the dog's outdoor needs with the vet.

The boyfriend needs help with anxiety.

OP's boyfriend seems to be struggling with severe anxiety, and it's important to urge him to seek help.

This dog requires regular exercise and mental stimulation.

Despite precautions, accidents can happen, but dogs still deserve a fulfilling life.

Every dog needs fresh air, sunlight, and exercise.

OP should avoid potential risks at dog parks, particularly for small dogs, but prioritize walks and sniffing outings.

When OP takes their dog to the vet next time, they should talk about how much the dog needs to go outside and play. Also, OP's partner is really worried all the time, which is why he is so protective of the dog. It's important to encourage him to get help for his anxiety.

Even though accidents can happen, dogs still need to have fun and explore the world around them. They need fresh air, sunlight, and exercise just like we do.

OP should be careful, especially at places like dog parks, but they should still take their dog for walks and let them sniff around outside. By finding a balance between keeping the dog safe and letting them enjoy life, OP can make sure their furry friend stays happy and healthy.

Damjan