Ask The Hairy Dogfathers: Opinions Breed Ignorance

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

Everyone has an opinion, but when they’re uninformed, they’re a pain in the butt! The Hairy Dogfathers weigh in on what to do when people comment on your dog’s size.

Dear Hairy Dogfathers,

Six months ago I adopted Mars from the pound. They estimate him to be about 16 months old, and he is such an awesome dog!

Mars has a lot of energy. I take him to the dog park before work, play fetch when I get home, and we jog together every evening after dinner. Mars enjoys all this as much as I do! The shelter said he was part boxer, and that he would be high energy. We meet each other’s needs and make each other so happy.

But there is just one thing that I wish I could change. I am simply sick and tired of people commenting on my dog’s weight! Due to our active lifestyle, Mars has a lean, athletic build. It seems that no matter where I go, friends, family, and even complete strangers feel they can make comments about my dog’s weight. Some are innocent, some are accusatory. Mars has seen the vet, and I was told that he is a happy, healthy, athletic dog. How do I stop these comments… other than bringing a signed note from my vet everywhere we go?

Signed, I’ve had it up to here!

Related:Ask The Hairy Dogfathers: Dog Don’t Got Game

You and Mars sound like quite the team, it’s great to hear how you work together to meet each other’s needs. The reality is that many dogs have trouble keeping weight on, especially when they are young and active. If your vet says that Mars is healthy, then you have nothing to worry about. Unfortunately there is no hiding Mars athletic build with a boxer-like coat and you can’t change the perception of others. What you can change is how you interpret the comments you hear, and I’m guessing that many of those comments are coming from owners of overweight dogs. Be proud that you are able to meet your dog’s needs and that you and Mars are happy and healthy.

Keep up the great teamwork!

Related:How To Tell If Your Dog Is Overweight

I am so happy to hear that your dog isn’t overweight and at risk of developing further health problems. Obesity, in pets and humans, is at an all-time high, as evidenced that people can’t appreciate a lean, healthy dog when they see one. These nosey-nellies are popping up everywhere! You can’t stop them from saying dumb things, but you can give them something to talk about! When it’s a stranger, tell them he’s training for the Olympics, smile, and then just walk away.

For your family, be firm and stand your ground. Start a conversation about pet obesity, and the dangers that pet parents are putting their dogs and cats in by over-feeding and under-exercising. Be that guy! Be that guy who talks about the risks of overweight pets – make education your best defence. Soon enough they’ll understand what you are talking about and stop telling you to feed your dog more!

Good luck and keep up the good work!

And if all else fails, remember that if the negative-nellies start to bring you down … you can easily outrun them!

Kevin

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

DIY Decorative Dog Dish Towels

Here are step-by-step instructions on how to make your own dog dish towels. They do more than just dry dishes - they also make a fashion statement!
Best Beds for Small Dogs

The right bed should offer good quality of sleep, keep pets warm, and be a safe place. Check out beds for small dogs that meet those standards- and more!
Texas Heeler

An excellent watch and herding dog, the Texas Heeler is a hybrid breed resulting from the crossing an Australian Cattle Dog and Australian Shepherd Dog.
Best Dog Crate End Tables

Dog crate end tables offer all the functionality of regular crates with the added appeal of looking like stylish pieces of furniture.
Top 10 Dog Workout Products for Workout Woofs

Your dog wants to be active, because it means more fun and more time with you! Check out these woofing workout products that''ll condition your canine.
Best Harnesses For Morkies

Your Morkie has a delicate neck. It''s important that the harness you use to keep her safe is comfy, so here our best 10 harnesses for Morkies.
Bourke’s Parakeet

Bourke''s Parakeet has gentle, cute looks that reflect their equally temperate behavior- which is perfect if you want a minimum hassle, affectionate pet.
Best Cool Holiday Gifts For Dogs

Make a list, check it twice. Who''s been naughty or nice? Our pooches always make it onto the ""Nice"" list, so put these cool gifts for dogs under the tree.
Top 7 Luxe Pet Friendly Hotels Where Posh Pooches Can Get Away From It

It’s a dog’s life! To get away from the stress of the dog park, canines can check in for an ultimate hotel experience You want to get away fro…
Freshwater Gobies

Freshwater gobies are generally peaceful community fish that can be kept with other community species. They belong to the family Gobiidae group of Goby.
Austrian Black and Tan Hound

Known for his keen sense of smell, strong work ethic and his agreeable temperament, the Austrian Black and Tan Hound is a hunter''s dream.
Casper’s New Luxury Mattress Lets Napping Dogs Lie

You know you''re a pet parent when the dog has a nicer bed than you! The mattress company best-known for making human beds turns it''s attention pups.
Great Dane

The Great Dane could be considered one of the noblest breeds and its general loyalty and friendliness also contribute to making these Danes great.
Scottish Deerhound

Heralded as the ""Royal Dog of Scotland"", the Scottish Deerhound is elegant, graceful and regal. He is a true gentleman and is a calm and polite dog.
9 Fun Things To Do With Your Dog This Summer

Ah summer - it''s the perfect time to get outside with your dog and enjoy the weather. We''ve come up with a 7 fun things to do with your dog this summer.