Dog person vs. Non-Dog person
My bf and I have been in a relationship for about 2 years. We have been living together for about 1 year. He has a beautiful large breed dog. But she is causing me so much stress! She is well behaved but is just so constant and I never intended on ever being a dog owner. Don't get me wrong, I love animals, but I like OTHER peoples dogs. She is loud, everything smells like dog, there is hair everywhere, and I feel constrained by her. We always have to follow the dogs schedule. I just do not enjoy her company the way my bf does. I see her as more of a burden than a loving companion. But this is the exact opposite of how my bf feels about the dog. I get so stressed by her that there are days I will spend the entire day in our bedroom just to have peace, quiet, and calm. My bf understands this and never pushes, but I feel like this is going to become a huge strain on our relationship, which I do not want to happen. We are great together! The only things we have ever argued about in two years is the dog. What can I do?
@pandora10
Hi Pandora,
I've just written on another topic about the need for chemistry in a relationship, and it's obvious to me that you and the dog have developed a negative chemistry!
I wonder why that is? You say you love dogs, but that this dog is an imposition on your relationship, an obstruction, for you.
I suspect that it may be that you feel that your bf is putting you second in this relationship. Is that a possibility?
@DavidEss
I don't believe that is it. I myself love pets. I've always had them growing up, so I understand the dynamic of having one. And I do not feel jealous of the dog. It's not the interaction between her and my bf that I'm struggling with. She just isn't the type of pet I ever intended on having.
@pandora10
Fair enough. Thanks for answering.
It sounds like you have a good relationship.
@DavidEss We do have a wonderful relationship. That is why this has been bothering me and why I've come to 7 cups to hopefully receive some input. And I truly appreciate yours. I am able to talk to my bf about the struggles I have with the dog. I just wish to find a way to better deal with my struggles.