Dating And Dogs

Photo by Ron Chapple

Recently, I went out on a date with a guy with whom I had some great conversations. We had a very nice date, except for the fact that at the end of the night, he said nothing about being in touch. Well, it turned out that I never heard from him since.

Understanding the Dating/Dog Dynamic

Many times, men (and women) will say they like dogs. However, that may mean they like them from a distance or like the novelty. To truly appreciate dogs, you have to be willing to accept that they're a part of that person's life. In retrospect, when the guy I was dating said "Must love Dogs huh?", I was surprised but had quickly interjected that it should be "must tolerate". He had said that comment with no smile or in a joking manner, but more in an annoyed way.
So, I guess my point is that many people will say it, but when push comes to shove, they don't stand behind it.

Seeing The Positive

While it's disappointing to think that I won't meet another because they won't be tolerant of dogs, I just can't look at the situation that way. Instead, I look at my dogs as a detector of true dog lovers and posers. This guy turned out to be a poser. After the initial disappointment lifted, I'm better off without this person in the long run. Each person you meet that doesn't work out, brings you closer to the one person who does.

Let's Discuss!

Have you encountered a dog-loving poser in your dating trials and tribulations?

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When Dating and Dogs Don't Mix

Photo Source: iStockphoto

We all hope to meet someone who makes us feel like one of the people in the picture above. Lately, I've met men who have never been raised around dogs and view them as an animal that belongs outdoors. I've always seen my dogs as members of our household. Both views are realistic, yet as I get older, I'm finding that I've become less tolerant of men who view dogs as a nuisance.

Many times, dogs are a non-issue when you meet someone special. In the beginning of a relationship, it's about discovering one another and enjoying time together. Many people are willing to put the little things like whether or not they like pets aside when they first start dating and then a short while later, their true feelings come out. If one person loves animals and the other would rather be without them, this can be a huge source of contention for the relationship.

I remember watching Keeping Up With The Kardashians one time and there was a scene where Kim's fiance Kris introduced her to his dogs. He was very sure she would warm up to them and then you see her saying to the camera "I love dogs but love them from a distance". When I saw that, the first thing that went off in my head was "RED FLAG". I was hoping that it was something they would overcome. Well, you know the rest.

Knowing your limits

Many couples find a way to compromise on the pet situation to make their relationship flourish. It's important to have honest and clear communication from the beginning. Like everything in a relationship, it should be made clear that there are some things you'll tolerate and other things that are non-negotiable. Since everyone is different, everyone has different opinions on this topic. They are neither right or wrong. One can only hope that the differences balance out.

Let's Discuss!

How do you feel about dating someone who isn't accepting of your pet?

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