Why Does My Dog Hate My Roommate? Concerns And Solutions
Having a pet dog is like having a furry bundle of joy that never fails to brighten your day. The playful antics and the comforting companionship pet dogs offer are truly incomparable.
In return, you have to make sure your good girl is well taken care of. And a big part of that is being sure your beloved pooch feels safe and comfortable in her living environment.
It can be quite stressful for dogs to adjust to new roommates every year and it’s even worse when your dog can’t seem to settle into your new living situation.
So, what happens when your dog doesn’t get along with your roommate? Why does my dog hate my roommate? The quick and easy answer is that your dog probably hates your roommate for one of the following reasons:
- She doesn’t like strangers
- She’s being territorial
- She finds something unsettling about your roommate
- Your roommate is scared of dogs
- Your dog is still young
- Your roommate is abusive to your dog
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Why Doesn’t My Dog Like My Roommate?
Let’s take a more detailed look at each of the reasons I briefly mentioned.
Doesn’t Like Strangers
Dogs can sometimes be wary of unfamiliar people.
If your dog hasn’t spent much time with your roommate, she might see them as a stranger and be reluctant to trust them.
Being Territorial
Another reason your dog might not like your roommate could be territorial behavior.
Dogs can get protective of their space and their humans, and your roommate’s presence might be perceived as a threat.
There’s Something ‘Scary’ About Your Roommate
While ‘scary’ might not be the best word, your dog could have a particular issue with something about your roommate.
She might be uncomfortable with people wearing hats, or she might be apprehensive around men.
It’s worth noting if your roommate shares any traits with other people your dog dislikes.
Your Roommate Is Scared of Dogs
If your roommate feels anxious around dogs, your canine companion might pick up on that fear.
Your dog could interpret their stressed behavior or tone of voice as a tense situation, causing her to be cautious or defensive around your roommate.
Your Dog Is Still Young
Puppies, like humans, go through growing and learning phases.
If your dog is still young and shows no signs of disliking your roommate for any specific reason, she might simply need more time to adjust to her surroundings and understand that your roommate is not a threat.
Your Roommate Is Abusive to Your Dog
This possibility is certainly concerning, but it should be considered if other reasons don’t seem to fit.
Abuse isn’t limited to physical violence; it can also include intimidation, yelling, or aggressive body language.
Observe how your roommate interacts with your dog to determine if this could be the issue.
What Can I Do About A Roommate That Abuses My Dog?
If your roommate is abusive to your dog, you need to swiftly take action.
Talk To Your Roommate
Of course, there’s absolutely no excuse for abusing any animal.
However, some people might not understand that what they’re doing is abuse. This might especially be true if your roommate is abusing your good girl by yelling or intimidating her.
Have a friendly and open conversation with your roommate to see if you can resolve the issue.
If they don’t understand that what they’re doing is unacceptable, it’s time to immediately take other actions.
Get Your Dog Away From Your Roommate
Your dog’s safety should always be a top priority and she doesn’t have the choice or ability to leave the harmful situation.
It’s your responsibility to protect her immediately.
Consider options like boarding her at a kennel, or taking her to a trusted family member’s house.
If needed, reach out to your local humane society for additional help and support.
Check Your Local Laws
Knowing your legal rights and the protection afforded to animals in your area is important.
Most places have strict laws against animal abuse, so take the time to familiarize yourself with these laws and be ready to take appropriate action if necessary.
Find A Different Living Situation
Ultimately, either you or your roommate needs to find a new place to live.
While is probably easier said than done, it’s the best and final step in making certain that your dog is safe and happy.
When researching local laws, you may have even come across resources that could assist you in navigating this sudden change.
Just remember, your dog’s well-being is worth the effort.
How Can I Get My Dog To Like My Roommate More?
Back to a better topic. If your dog doesn’t like your roommate for some reason other than your roommate abusing her, then there is something you can do about it.
Solve The Underlying Issue
First, try to identify and address the reason why your dog isn’t fond of your roommate.
If you can figure out what’s bothering your dog, you can work together to resolve the issue.
Let Your Roommate Give Treats to Your Dog
One quick way to improve the relationship between your dog and roommate is by having your roommate offer your dog some delicious treats to your good girl.
With time, your dog will start to associate your roommate with positive experiences.
Make Sure Your Roommate Isn’t Accidentally Being Aggressive
Sometimes, people unknowingly display aggressive body language to dogs.
Looking a dog in the eyes, making sudden or quick movements, and other seemingly harmless behaviors can be perceived as threatening.
Encourage your roommate to be aware of their body language around your dog.
Let Your Dog Investigate Your Roommate
Dogs learn about people by sniffing them!
If your roommate is comfortable with this, ask them to sit or lie on the floor, keeping calm and avoiding any sudden movements or loud talking.
This will allow your dog to investigate your roommate in a safe and controlled manner.
What If Nothing Works?
If your roommate isn’t causing harm to your dog, and all attempts to make them get along have failed, you might have to keep your dog away from your roommate.
Consider crate training, creating an outdoor space (if safe), or taking your dog to work with you. It’s your responsibility to keep the peace between both your dog and your roommate.
And while it may feel like a big inconvenience, it’s all part of being a responsible dog.
Rehoming your dog could be an option, but should be a last resort.
Quick Summary: Why Does My Dog Dislike My Roommate?
Your dog may dislike your roommate due to issues like her being wary of strangers, territorial behavior, sensitivity to certain traits your roommate has, fear of dogs from your roommate, her being young and still adjusting, or even abusive behavior from your roommate.
Identifying the cause will help you take the right steps to improve their relationship.
If you suspect your dog is being abused by your roommate, start by talking to your roommate to address your concerns.
If they don’t understand or refuse to change, take steps to protect your dog immediately. Familiarize yourself with local laws related to animal abuse, and consider finding a new living situation, ensuring your dog’s safety and well-being.
To help your dog get along with your roommate, address underlying issues, have your roommate give treats, ensure your roommate is not exhibiting aggressive body language, and let your dog safely investigate your roommate.
If these methods don’t work, you should keep your dog away for the sake of peace and harmony.