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Think of the following scenario: You are going out with a new partner, and as every responsible pet parent, you want your dog and partner to get along. But what if your partner is not a dog person? Or what if you have a jealous dog?
For many pet parents this is their reality. They love their dog as their child but their dog and partner aren’t on the same page. We know that you want your dog to love your partner as much as you do. But, a strong bond takes time to develop. With these expert tips and some effort, we promise your dog will have a new favorite in no time.
Feeding = Bonding
Have you heard the quote “The way to a man’s heart is through the stomach”? Well, the same applies to dogs. For dogs, food triggers a survival instinct. And the person feeding them food is the one that helps them survive.
To improve the bond between the two, have your partner feed the dog exclusively. Or give your partner higher-value treats and food.
Play Games Together
When you are a solo pet parent, you can play games like fetch. Once you get another person, you can change the way you play games. For example, you can throw a ball between you and your partner, and have your dog try to catch it. Every once in a while, let your dog get the ball.
Plan games where you can include your partner and your dog.
Make it Exclusive
Help your partner find something exclusive between him/her and your furry friend. It can be any behavior, treat, game, or anything in between. Here is a good example: Have your partner be the one to scratch your dog as dogs love rubs and cuddles.
Go for a Fun Road Trip
People bond during trips and adventures. When you bring your dog on trips, you allow him to experience new places, people, or other animals. Always choose dog-friendly locations, like a lake, park, hiking trail, or anything similar.
The relationship between your partner and dog will flourish as you increase the happy times you spend together.
Give Up the Leash
Have your girlfriend/boyfriend walk your dog on a leash next time you are out. This strengthens the role of your partner as your dog’s protector and this will also show your dog that he needs to respect your partner as his guardian.
When you are out for a walk, make sure you and your partner walk in the same direction close-by. This shows your dog that there is no threat, and he is among familiar people.
Emotional Benefits
One of the biggest selling points for owning a dog is the emotional benefit. People who haven’t owned a dog before are not quite familiar with the unconditional love dogs give. Try to explain the benefits to your partner as they begin to interact with your dog.
No matter if your partner is a softy or a hard-hearted person, a dog will charm them. Dogs provide unconditional love and endless entertainment. They will cheer you up when you are down, and calm you when you are tense.
The mental health benefits of walking a dog every day are too good to ignore.
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Leave them Alone
If your dog prefers you, then they will always pick you when you are with your partner. Physically leaving your home for a time allows your dog and partner to spend some one on one time together. No matter what kind of relationship they have, they will have to try and make it work during the two or three days they are together.
If your partner loves you, he will try to find a way to work things out. Only choose this method if there isn’t risk of injury with your dog biting or attacking your partner.
Never Rush Things
If there is one thing you should avoid at all costs it is rushing things. Building a healthy relationship takes time. Yes, for some people it clicks right away, but trying to get a person who is not into dogs to love your dog, or a jealous dog to love your partner takes time.
Warn your partner to take things slow as well. A lot of people try to plunge their hands down straight to the dog’s face after the initial sniff. Do not do it. Touching a dog is a privilege, not a given right.
Allow your dog to come to your partner, not the other way around.
Final Words
What might look like a love triangle at the beginning, will surely turn into a beautiful relationship if you give it time. Continue to talk with your partner and try to explain the needs of the dog. The most important part is to create a safe and comfortable environment for all involved parties.
Here is a fun fact: Couples who own a dog have lower stress when dealing with conflict. Dogs help you calm down, and give you the strength to go through stressful and hard times together.
