07/23/2024
Puppy Trapping Your Girlfriend or Boyfriend
Introduction: Imagine this: You’re in a blossoming relationship, and everything feels perfect. You and your significant other decide to take the next step—no not a wedding ring. But something that requires a lot of food, loves to p**p, doesn't sleep at night and is absolutely adorable. No, I'm not talking about a baby!
You could get a puppy! It’s cute, it’s playful, and it seems like the perfect addition to your love story. But beneath the surface, there's a deeper, more complex motive: puppy trapping.
A Flowery Beginning: Sarah and Jake had been dating for about six months when they decided to get a puppy together. It was almost like preparing for a baby. They spent weeks researching breeds, discussing which one would fit best with their lifestyle. Sarah wanted a golden retriever for its friendly demeanor, while Jake leaned towards a husky for its adventurous spirit. Eventually, they found common ground and chose a golden retriever.
Naming the puppy was an event in itself, akin to choosing a baby’s name. They tossed around names, laughed over silly suggestions, and finally settled on Bella. She was their new family member, a symbol of their commitment to each other.
The first few weeks were magical. They imagined taking Bella on holidays, picturing her splashing in the sea or hiking with them in the mountains. They dreamed of her being a part of all their future adventures. Their social media feeds were filled with pictures of the happy trio, and their friends couldn’t stop commenting on how perfect they all looked together. It seemed like Bella was the key to their happily ever after.
The Reality Check: But as time passed, the initial excitement began to fade. Then came the breakup. The once joyous decision of getting a puppy now turned into a painful dilemma. Who would keep Bella? They had shared the costs of her care, but now splitting the bills became another point of contention.
"If I dont get the dog, I'm not paying for it." You'll hear it. Trust me.
Now what happens during the day when the new single (puppy) parent was at work? Is the dog crated for 10+ hours? Sent to Doggy Daycare? What about moving, will there even be roomates interested in living together with this new puppy? The cherry on top is the pricing for pet insurance at your new apartment that you will pay. Alone.
Here's a glimpse into the messages that I often receive when the fairytale turns into frustration:
• "My parents are telling me I either have to move out or rehome her."
• "I caught my roommate hitting Bella and she bit them. Now what?"
• "I didn't have the money to get training, and now Bella is reactive to any date I try to bring over."
• "My ex keeps trying to come over to see Bella."
Conclusion:
Admittedly, I benefit from this situation. The worse dogs are, the more stable my job is. But it saddens me to see so many people leveraging the emotional high a puppy brings to address boredom in their relationships. Puppy trapping can certainly seem like a sweet gesture to solidify a relationship, but it’s essential to recognize the underlying motives and potential consequences.
If you are a parent and you think your kids are getting puppy trapped. Please share this post.
A puppy is a significant commitment that requires mutual agreement, realistic expectations, and clear communication. If you can't answer the following questions please reconsider.
1. Who keeps the dog? Get this in writing.
2. Where will the new single owner live? Name a specific person.
3. How will they afford it? Break down all the costs from daycare to the new apartment.
Or don't, but then at least call me after so I can help you with training. If this post was helpful, interesting (or at least funny) then please like and share!
