6 Ways to Respond to “They’re Just a Dog.”

If you’re the kind of dog parent who would proudly own a doormat that reads, “Dogs Welcome, People Tolerated,” you’ve probably faced your share of raised eyebrows about your love for your pup. For those of us who adore our dogs, the bonds we share with them are as significant as any human connection- a unique feeling that can be hard for others to understand unless they’ve experienced it themselves.

With the holidays approaching, many pet parents are opening their dog-friendly homes to friends and family. Sometimes that can mean subjecting ourselves to hearing insensitive remarks about our furry companions. To help you handle comments like, “They’re just a dog,” we’ve put together six thoughtful (and witty) responses so you can celebrate the season with your best friend by your side, judgment-free.

If they say “They’re just a dog”, you can say… 

1. “Oh they’re way more than that. They’re actually my therapist, personal trainer, and alarm clock all in one adorable package.” 

This cheeky response will highlight the various important roles our pups play in our lives. Penny-pinching family members might even appreciate all the ways you save money by owning a dog! 

2. “Maybe to you, but they’re the reason I get up in the morning.” 

We all know the positive effects that dogs have on our mental health, and this response will emphasize it! There are countless studies that have proven that having one or more dogs has significant mood boosting benefits. 

3. “Careful! They’re standing right there and almost heard you. I haven’t told them that they are adopted yet.” 

A funny way to allude to the fact that you often consider your pup to be your biological child rather than a canine companion. Sometimes it is best to come at a silly statement with an even sillier answer.  

4. “They are a dog, but they’re also my family” 

Being “just a dog” shouldn’t be an insult, owning a dog is one of the best parts about being human! There is little that is comparable to the unique and unconditional love between a dog and their person. 

5. “Just a dog? That’s your granddaughter you’re talking about!” 

This comeback will get the point across that not only is your dog your own family, but you consider them to be a part of your extended family as well. Granddaughter can be swapped out for niece, nephew, grandson, etc! 

6. “Them being a dog is one of the least interesting things about them!” 

We know that our dogs have unique personalities that make them truly one-of-a-kind. While our friends and family may never understand our pups as deeply as we do, if they’re lucky enough to witness the sweet connection we share, they might think twice before ever calling them “just a dog” again.