Some of us cannot live without our dog(s). Singles are so attached to their pets, they visit dating sites like www.doglovers.biz that match people up who have dogs. Dog groomers love animals and understand how we consider our dogs to be part of the family. I went to pick up my dog at the grooming parlor last month. Most of the time their closing hour is before I finish working, so one of my friends picks her up. But this time, I was free. When I asked for my dog, one of the groomers, whom I had not seen before asked, “Are you Raji’s mother?” “Yes, I am,” I answered. She said, seriously, “Are you her REAL mother?” Looking harried and a bit of a mess, I said, “Yes…I’m afraid I am.”
According to www.animalattraction.com it is estimated that over 40 million adult singles in the U.S. own dogs. But that leaves over 60 million single adults who do not own dogs, and if you are dating one of them, how will you handle introducing him to your pet? Are there actions you can take that will help your date accept your furry side of the clan?
If some of your family members are wonderful cuddly creatures and you want to introduce your puppy love to your human love, be sure that your dog is well mannered. People who don’t have a pet usually do not appreciate dogs that jump on them, lick them, growl at them, or incessantly bark. If your dog does these things, consider taking a dog obedience class together.
I have a friend with an adorable teacup poodle. His size and his expression make him so cute, he has escaped learning all the discipline he needs. In spite of his willful ways, she takes him everywhere she goes, including her office. Problem is, he climbs on her clients, barks if they don’t pay attention to him, and chews on their shoes and their pant legs. Some people don’t think that’s cute.
Here are some “dog dates” that can promote a friendship between your new squeeze and your dog:
Walk the dog together.
An enjoyable date is to take the dog for a walk. This gives everyone exercise as well as calming your dog. Let your date hold the leash (unless you have a difficult dog to walk) so your pet can build a bond with your heart’s desire. This type of date has been known to promote great conversations. However, be sure you know the route of your dog walk date. Walking in new places may attract new dogs to your heels and you don’t want to literally scare your admirer away.
Research information about dogs.
If the non-furry object of your affection shows some interest in knowing more about dogs, check out some dog web sites. You can read up on the different characteristics and temperaments of each breed. These sites can also teach your date about the care and feeding of dogs so that when your dog acts in certain ways it will not be a mystery—or an annoyance.
Visit local dog breeders.
Your date may become more interested in seeing other dogs once you do some research. But even if she doesn’t, visiting a reputable dog breeder to see the puppies and to listen to the owner describe their dogs can create a deeper understanding of the characteristics of each breed.
Visit animal shelters.
Everyone needs to visit an animal shelter at least once in his or her life. Who knows? You and your date may find your calling in volunteer services there. Dogs need to be given a bath, petted, talked to, and fed. There aren’t enough personnel to get all these jobs done. Dogs that are bathed have a much better chance of being adopted.
Observe a dog obedience class together.
For people who do not have a dog, watching dogs being trained is important, interesting, and educational. They need to see the methods that are used to achieve the necessary discipline that a pet must have to feel safe and secure. Your dog should be a joy to have in your family, not an annoyance that causes anger and stress. If it misbehaves, you and your date need to know the proper way to teach it good manners. You might never forgive someone if they hit your dog. Visit an obedience class before that ever becomes a problem so that you both are on the same page about what constitutes an appropriate reaction to bad behavior.
The teacup poodle that belongs to my friend no longer climbs on people or bites their ankles. She took him to obedience school. Smart little fellow that he is, he graduated valedictorian of his class.
If you want your special someone to fall in a lasting puppy love with you and your dog, think about the above. This is what you face as a — dating dog lover.
Tonja Evetts Weimer, M.A., is a Master Certified Single’s Coach and Life Coach. To receive her free singles newsletter or to contact her, E-mail tonja@tonjaweimer.com.
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