The Most Obnoxious Things You Could Ever Say to a Dog Owner

Dogs are like children. They’re an undeniable part of your family, therefore, they deserve respect. But sadly, there are some folks out there who love passing judgment and giving unsolicited advice to dog owners.

Whether you’re guilty of doing so yourself or you’ve been on the receiving end of such foolish remarks, it’s time to take note. Steer clear of these 15 remarks in the future.

1. I can’t believe you got a purebred instead of adopting

There are plenty of dog people out there who have strong opinions on the matter of pet adoption. While adopting a pet is 100% admirable, it’s not for everyone.

Just think about all the dog breed clubs that exist. Would those even be a thing if there weren’t super passionate humans to start them in the first place? Definitely not. So, before you step onto that soapbox of yours, do yourself — and everyone else around you — a favor, and don’t.

Next: Rude, rude, rude

2. Dogs really can look like their owners

Yikes. That’s pretty harsh. Dogs are cute and all, but telling someone they bear resemblance to the likes of a bull mastiff isn’t exactly the nicest compliment in the world. Surely, “You’re looking so nice these days!” will do just fine.

Next: Keep your opinions to yourself. 

3. Is your dog really a service dog?

This one’s pretty sensitive, and it certainly comes with a bit of a stigma. Although it can seem like service pets are a dime a dozen these days, there’s still a real need for them. That pup got his papers for a reason, and the reason is none of your business. So, the next time you’re tempted to ask someone this, resist the urge.

Next: Know-it-all’s will always be aplenty. 

4. It’s too cold to leave your dog outside

There’s nothing worse than someone telling you how your dog is feeling. Surely, you’re the one who knows what your dog does and does not like, and being told that your dog is cold is highly irritating at best.

You know your dog, and you know just how much he loves being outside in the winter. Just because it’s cold out doesn’t mean your dog isn’t loving it.

Next: Some people actually think it’s OK to say this to parents with children, too. 

5. You should really have your dog on a leash

True, some city ordinances require dogs to be on leashes, but those laws can be a bit loose given the circumstances. For instance, if you’re hiking or trail running, it’s not unusual for a dog to be off his leash. Or, perhaps you’re just hanging out at a restaurant’s outdoor patio, and your dog is lounging by your feet. If your dog is good enough to be off-leash, there’s no reason for anyone else to tell you otherwise.

Next: Some people think they know everything. 

6. Your dog looks like he needs some water

Say what? First of all, some people need to monitor their dog’s water intake for medical reasons. Also, don’t people know that you’re fully capable of taking care of your dog? Apparently not, because this comment seems far too common.

Next: And it doesn’t just stop there.

7. Your dog looks hungry

Again, another “you don’t know how to take care of your own dog” remark. If there’s any offensive comment, it’s this. Surely, you know that your dog needs to eat, and you feed him his allotted portions each and every day. He’s never gone hungry a day in his life, has he?

Next: And on the opposite end of the spectrum …

8. Your dog is huge!

On the flip side, commenting on the large size of your dog is just as insulting. Not only is it suggesting that your dog needs to lose a few pounds, but it’s suggesting that you, the owner, don’t provide your dog with adequate exercise.

Heck, they might as well just come out and say it right to your face: “You’re super lazy and unhealthy, and your dog is, too.” Ouch.

Next:  This one really gets under people’s skin.

9. Your dog needs more training

It’s as if you’re striving for a dog that misbehaves: “Your dog needs more training.” Really? Not cool. If your dog does in fact require a little more guidance in the training department, you’d be the first to know.

Next: Quite frankly, your personal finances are none of anyone’s business. 

10. Do you really think the vet bills are worth it?

Obviously, you do. Otherwise, you wouldn’t be spending your money on them. Dogs, for most people, are like kids. And if your kid breaks his leg, there’s no question whether you would take him to the doctor to get it treated, right? Well, you’d do the same for your dog.

Next: Anyone who says this should be ashamed.

11. Sorry to hear that your dog died. When are you getting another one?

Not only is this one obnoxious, it’s highly insensitive. When a person’s dog passes away, there’s a lot of pain and suffering. And just like anyone else who loses someone they love, dog parents need to go through a certain grieving process before they’re ready to move on.

Next: Neat freak, much?

12. You shouldn’t let your dog on the furniture

Says who? Unless you bring your dog into someone else’s home and allow him to jump on the furniture, it’s not anyone’s business whether your dog can go on the furniture in your own home. You want to snuggle with your pup on the couch during your Saturday night in? You go right ahead and do it.

Next: Some people just know everything. 

13. Didn’t you do your research before deciding on a mean dog breed?

While some breeds are known to be less friendly than others, most dogs can be trained. Plus, there’s a right owner for most pups out there. Just because people may think a breed is a mean one, doesn’t make it true.

Next: Hey, we all have different tastes. 

14. Does your dog really need that argyle sweater?

Lots of folks like dressing up their dogs. If you’re not one of them, try to bite your tongue the next time you see one of these couture canines strutting down the street. It’s not hurting you, so there’s no sense in making a thing of it.

Next: Don’t be so quick to judge. 

15. Your dog won’t stop humping my leg. You need to get him neutered!

Newsflash: Dogs who’ve been fixed are still fully capable of humping. And even if the dog hasn’t been spayed or neutered, it’s not your business. Maybe the owner plans on breeding him or her, so should just learn to keep your mouth shut. However, we will say that it’s the owner’s responsibility to intervene if their dog is humping any human limbs. It’s just rude not to.

Read more: 15 of the Most Popular Dog Breeds in America

Check out The Cheat Sheet on Facebook!