Make your partner fully aware of your intended commitment. Tell them you’ll bear the brunt of the responsibility. Or, better yet, treat it as a bonding experience and walk the dog together. Remember, actions speak louder than words though. Pull together a proposed walking schedule and prove your commitment by sticking to it yourself for a few weeks. Take on more responsibility in other ways too, like around the house. Keep the plants watered, remember to take out the bins, start meal prepping lunches in advance. Trust us, they’ll notice.
So, you’ve communicated the benefits and prepped your rebuttal…now what? Now, it’s time to present your case. Here’s a handy, totally unbiased presentation the team at Pedigree Parenting have prepared – it’s thoroughly researched and backed by science*. Below is a wee snippet of the comprehensive research Pedigree has put into pleading your case for a four-legged friend.
For those more gung-ho about getting a dog than their partner, we’ve compiled the ultimate guide to shifting their perspective. The only condition? Send us ALL the cute dog snaps.
It’s actually quite the opposite! There’s a reason dogs are go-to support pets – they’re ‘man’s best friend’. Not only do canines consistently demonstrate unconditional loyalty (arguably even more so than kids!), they’re also proven to reduce stress. Spending just a few minutes with a pet can lower anxiety and blood pressure, as well as increase levels of serotonin and dopamine. Plus, dogs are so excited to see you when you get home, that all your day’s stresses will be left at the door.
Most of the time, it’s a case of getting your partner from camp B to A, which can be a drawn-out process – but you get there overtime. However, it’s made a lot easier if you’re prepared and offer up a solid case.
Will a Second Dog Help with Separation Anxiety?
While two dogs will keep each other company, it’s unlikely a second dog would help with separation anxiety. If your current dog tends to freak out when you leave the house, I would recommend working with a dog behaviorist or trainer to work on those behaviors before bringing home a second dog.
Signs of separation anxiety in your dog may include barking, whining, panting, pacing or even destroying things. I’ve talked to several dog training and behavior experts on my podcast about this.
Certified trainer and dog behavior consultant, Mikkel Becker recommends creating a goodbye routine that you repeat every time you leave the house to build trust and a reliable routine with your anxious dog. Learn more about her recommendations on Wear Wag Repeat Podcast Episode 129.
On the podcast, I also talked to Certified Professional Dog Trainer Louise Daigle of Red Pointy Dog Training in New Hampshire. Louise recommends being proactive about separation anxiety, especially after spending so much time with your dog during quarantine in 2020. You can listen to Louise’s recommendations (and learn about her dog training online course) on Wear Wag Repeat Podcast Episode 115.
How do I persuade my husband to get a dog?
SIX STEPS TO CONVINCE YOUR HUSBAND YOU NEED A PUPPY.