Some people don’t like dogs.
While others may only hate certain ones.
Now, if the shoe fits and you must live with one…
It’ll be a hard and uncomfortable experience.
But there are ways to make it more bearable.
How?
Continue reading to learn:
- 9 simple strategies to live with a dog you hate.
- 2 easy ways to establish boundaries with the dog.
- When to consider getting help from a professional.
- And so much more..
Table of contents
How to live with a dog you hate – 9 simple tips
#1: Understand your feelings
Everyone in a situation like yours has their reasons for feeling that way.
What’s yours?
Before acting on the problem…
You must fully understand your emotions first.
This will help you think of a way to handle the issue.
Also, you’ll be able to explain your feelings clearly when needed.
What to do?
You may have already thought about this before.
But ask yourself again why you dislike the dog.
Then list them down.
Is it their behavior?
Is it the Fido’s breed, or do you generally have a bad image of dogs?
How about allergies, fear, or past trauma?
Whatever your reasons are, jot them down.
And then…
#2: Talk about your situation
This only applies if the dog’s someone else’s.
You’ll live with them and the Fido, so be honest about your feelings.
But make sure to do it calmly.
Also, avoid sounding accusatory.
What to do?
Find the right timing
Discuss the issue when you and the dog’s parent are relaxed.
Do this to avoid starting with an argument.
Also, so that both of you can process things well and make better decisions.
For example, talk with them during a calm afternoon or evening.
Avoid bringing it up right after waking up or coming home from work.
Once you find the correct timing…
Explain your feelings about their dog
Be extra mindful of your words.
Remain calm as much as possible. And avoid sounding like you’re pointing your finger at someone.
Come up with a solution that works for everyone
For example, if you hate the dog for being destructive…
Suggest training them further or limiting their areas in the house.
If the reason’s a lack of bonding, agree with a time when you and your partner can be alone – without Fido.
#3: Decide the dog’s zones
Next, establish areas in the house where the Fido can and can’t go.
This is a must, even in other households, as it teaches dogs rules and good manners.
But in your case, this also lessens your chances of interacting with the dog you hate.
Thus, it’ll make life less stressful for both of you.
Plus, you’ll have fewer worries with the Fido indoor – especially if they destroy things.
What to do?
Set physical boundaries.
Designate specific areas in your house where the dog’s off-limits.
Somewhere you don’t feel comfortable being around them, like your bedroom.
If it’s a shared space, install physical boundaries.
For example, a baby gate or dog fence.
The rules must be consistent to avoid confusing the dog.
So, ensure everyone living in the house knows about the off-limit zones.
#4: Try teaching them self-control
Now, in your situation…
Is it impossible to avoid interactions?
If so, are you willing to put up with it until the dog’s behavior gets better?
Sometimes, all Fido needs is the right combo of:
- Training.
- Exercise.
- Positive reinforcement.
The latter means using rewards to make dogs repeat a behavior you want. And ignoring any unwanted ones.
So if you hate the dog for jumping at you and invading your space…
Here’s a simple trick.
Once the dog starts getting too jumpy, even if they’re exercised enough, do the following:
- Ignore them.
- Stand up or leave the room.
- Return and give them attention only when the dog stops and settles down.
The Fido will get tired eventually or get distracted by something else.
So wait for it (even for a second).
Then reward the dog generously for being calm and to reinforce the behavior.
And to teach them they don’t always have to be in your face to earn a goodie.
Note: Training needs a lot of patience, as correction doesn’t happen overnight. So you may do this or tell this to the other people you live with.
You might also like: 13 Best Self-Control Games For Dogs & 27 Common Dog Training Mistakes + Fixes
#5: Redistribute workload
If you can’t care for the dog or have no time, mental and emotional capacity to do so…
Discuss it with the other people in the house.
“Okay. I can live with the furry pal.
But please understand my boundaries – both physical and emotional.”
Then you may agree on the following:
Choose someone in charge of the dog’s care.
Or divide the job among everyone in the house.
Taking care of a dog’s not easy.
It’s a huge responsibility.
And not everyone’s up for it – this might include you.
Some people even resent their family or partner’s dogs because they’re the only 1 doing all the hard tasks.
They may not initially hate Fido, or they’re not a dog person, to begin with.
But over time, the job gets overwhelming.
Plus, they have other things to do as well.
So caring for the dog becomes a tedious chore instead of an enjoyable task.
This won’t also be good for the furry friend.
“Why’s that?”
Studies prove that dogs can sense stress and human emotions.
Thus, come up with a decision where everyone will be content living under 1 roof.
#6: Practice regular self-care
You can’t force yourself to like something you don’t want in a blink of an eye.
Sometimes, it’s impossible.
But if not, it’ll take time.
So in the process…
Don’t forget to take care of yourself as well.
Research says that self-care lowers stress.
And this could be in any form, like:
- Meditation.
- Journaling.
- Sightseeing.
- Exercising daily.
- Getting a massage.
- Doing a favorite activity.
- Hanging out with friends.
Now, if you find it hard to begin doing self-care…
Start easy.
Do small tasks like eating the food you crave most.
Or taking warm, long showers.
Did you know that in Japan, bathing in hot water and drinking tea linked to:
- Better sleep quality.
- Good health status.
- Low levels of stress.
Also, de-stressing can help reduce any negative feelings about the dog you hate.
Okay. Doing this won’t make them the perfect Fido you want them to be.
But now that your mind’s less stressed…
You’ll have a healthier response to them.
Who knows, you might see the dog in a better light too.
#7: Focus on the good side
I know. This could be easier said than done.
But there’s no harm in trying.
First, recall all the things you dislike about the dog.
Then try to focus on their good qualities.
It doesn’t matter how small it is. Just list down everything you can think of.
For example, Fido’s extremely noisy and destroys everything they see.
But they’re loving and alert everyone when a stranger’s around.
Also, the dog pees and poops everywhere.
However, they make the people in the house laugh with their crazy antics.
Now, you don’t have to love the dog as much as everyone does after this.
It would be great if you consider it.
But focusing on the positive can help make being around them more bearable as you live together.
Reading tip: 7 Real Reasons Why Dogs Are So Nice (#3 Will Surprise You)
#8: Find a support system
Aside from writing down your thoughts…
It’ll also help if you can vent on people you trust.
As I said earlier, discuss this with your family or close friends.
But if this isn’t an option, you can look for forums or groups.
You might know someone who was in the same situation as you.
It’s nice to have people who are willing to listen to you.
And it’s important that you also feel safe while doing it.
Plus, you’ll gain some insights too on how other people deal with the same issue.
#9: Get an expert’s help
Is the dog’s behavior the reason for your dislike?
If yes, consider seeking help from a dog or animal expert.
First, rule out any health conditions by seeing a vet.
Then if Fido’s healthy…
Ask for recommendations for a certified dog trainer or behaviorist.
There are 7 known types of dog training. And the method you use at home might not suit the furry friend.
Also, dogs aren’t born with good manners.
Yes, some of them are mellow and gentle by nature.
But like a kid, you must guide them to know the do’s and dont’s.
Not only that, but some Fidos may have trauma. And it causes them to act aggressive or aloof.
That’s why dog training’s important.
However, it’ll be a long, bumpy ride.
But trust me.
Once it’s over, you’ll have to live with a new Fido.
Someone who listens well and is less stressful to be around.
Learn more: 27 Best Dog Trainers In The World & 37 Quick Dog Training Tips For Beginners
#BONUS: Consider rehoming
Lastly, if you’ve grown to hate your dog for some reason.
And you’ve tried everything but still can’t live with Fido…
Your final resort is to rehome them.
I repeat, this must be the last step – not the first option in this problem.
This is if you always find your dog a ‘sensory nightmare.’
You can’t take their barking noises, distinct smell, and reactive behavior.
There’s no shame in owning and trying to fix your mistake.
But understand that this will also be hard for your dog.
They’re not toys you can surrender once you don’t like them anymore.
Moving houses and adjusting isn’t their thing too.
However, if being in a more loving family can make them happier, then consider it.
Not only for your own sake but also for the dog.
Fido will get all the love and care they need.
Meanwhile, you’ll be more at ease at home.
Note: Do this with the help of a trusted dog or animal rescue group or shelter.