Try These Essential Strategies To Keep Your Dog If Your Partner Doesn't Want One

Wouldn't it be nice if everyone loved dogs? Owners wouldn't have to kennel them or place them in another room when they have company over. Adoption rates would skyrocket, and surrender rates would plummet. Let's face it, not everyone smiles at the sight of a fluffy puppy or feels the urge to pet a friendly golden retriever that approaches them. If you're a dog owner with plans to live with someone who isn't a canine fan, or you already live with them, it could certainly be a problem. That doesn't mean you have to get rid of your pup, though. There are several ways to keep your four-legged friend, even if your partner doesn't want one.

Maybe your partner doesn't mind being around dogs at someone else's house, but they don't want the responsibilities of one in their own home. Or perhaps they'd rather not deal with the smells and messes that sometimes come with pets. Whatever the reason, there's hope! These strategies can help your partner warm up to the idea of being a dog co-owner with you. And who knows, they just might end up falling in love with your furry friend, just like you did.

You likely see your dog as not just a pet, but as a best friend and beloved family member. Maybe you even consider it your soul pet because of your deep bond and history together. Chances are, you have equally strong feelings for your partner and want to respect their feelings, so talk it out. Have an honest, calm conversation with them about what your pet means to you, but more importantly, what your partner means to you. Assure them that you want to find a way for the three of you to live together in peace.

During the talk, give your partner the opportunity to speak their mind as well. Let them feel heard, valued, and respected. Try to understand why they feel the way they do about sharing their home with a dog to determine if there's a way you could help change their perspective. If they've never had a pup of their own, chances are they've made false assumptions about what pet parenthood actually looks like. Sure, it comes with the less-glamorous obligations, like vet bills and poop bags, but it also includes tail wags, unconditional love and companionship, and plenty of fond memories.

You may not be able to get your partner to love dogs, but hopefully, they'll be willing to compromise. Since you're asking your partner to share their living space with a pet they didn't choose, it's important to show that you're willing to make concessions, too. Together, identify which aspects of your relationship and home are non-negotiable and which ones have some wiggle room.

For example, maybe your partner has been wanting to convert the garage into an exercise area, art studio, or woodworking space, but you haven't been on board with the idea. This could be an area of compromise. You could support the garage gym or hobby idea and even help bring it to life in exchange for their openness to living with a dog.

Healthy relationships are built on mutual give-and-take anyway, so approaching this situation as a team can strengthen your bond with each other while addressing both of your wants and needs. That home gym or hobby spot that you didn't want before? That could become a hangout spot for your pup, too!

Many people who love their dogs don't allow them on beds or sofas for a number of reasons. So, you can create these same boundaries for your pet in the home you share with your partner. For example, let your partner know that your dog won't be allowed on any human furniture. Assure them that they'll be able to relax and sleep without a dog inches away, unless of course, they want the dog nearby. You could also designate a portion of your home for your dog and block its access from certain areas, such as the dining room, bedrooms, and the kitchen.

Have a dog gate installed and/or use a kennel as needed to keep these boundaries active. Or, as an alternative, consider having an invisible fence installed so your dog knows which areas are off limits. Be sure to also keep your pet's areas clean by sweeping, mopping, and/or vacuuming regularly, or more frequently than you would if you lived alone with your pup. You should also bathe and groom your dog regularly. After all, who doesn't want a dog with a soft coat that smells like oatmeal, lavender and mint, or other fragrant common dog shampoo ingredients?

Unless your partner is severely allergic to dogs, see if they'd be willing to interact with your dog in a positive way. Creating opportunities for these types of interactions can help build a connection between them over time. Start with something small and simple, and only for a few minutes at a time. See if your partner is willing to be alone with your dog for those minutes, which may also help create the bond and get your partner to warm up to your four-legged BFF.

To start, you could have them both sit next to each other while watching television. Or, go for the fun angle and have your partner play fetch with your dog in the back yard. Do you have some of the best dog treats? Give a few to your partner so they can feed them to your pup. You might also see if your partner would be willing to accompany you when you walk your dog and to take the leash for a few minutes.

Show off your dog's best side — the side that makes you smile — especially when your partner is around. Try to associate your dog with peaceful, happy, or fun moments, not stress. Remember that patience is key. Day after day, these interactions can build trust and comfort. While your partner may not ever become a "dog person," they might at least be willing to share their space with one without opposition.