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Signs Your Dog Is Trying to Turn You Into a Dog Person (Even If You Already Are One)

By: Arlene Divina
Arlene Divina, one of the content writers at IHD, loves going on adventures with her adorable fur baby. She now creates informative content for pet parents. Read more
| September 17, 2024

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If you’ve been a dog lover for a while, you probably think you’re as “dog person” as it gets. But your dog might have other plans. Whether you already adore dogs or are still warming up to the canine lifestyle, your furry friend is working hard to pull you even deeper into the dog-loving world. From influencing your daily routines to changing your perception of what matters most, your dog may be subtly—and sometimes not so subtly—molding you into an even more dedicated dog person.

You’ve Developed a Wardrobe for Your Dog

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It starts innocently enough—a cute sweater for chilly days or a Halloween costume that seems too adorable to pass up. But soon, you find yourself browsing online shops for the latest doggy fashion trends. Before long, your dog has more outfits than you do, and you’re coordinating looks for daily walks. Whether it’s raincoats, booties, or matching holiday pajamas, your dog has successfully turned you into the kind of person who treats dog fashion as a necessity. Suddenly, your dog’s wardrobe has become an extension of your own personality, and you’re proud of it.

You Schedule Your Life Around Your Dog’s Needs

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Remember the days when you could make spontaneous plans without a second thought? Well, those days are long gone. Now, every decision you make—from weekend getaways to evening dinners—has to take your dog’s needs into account. Whether it’s booking dog-friendly accommodations or ensuring you’re home for walks and mealtimes, your dog has become the center of your schedule. And the funny part? You wouldn’t have it any other way. Your dog’s routines have woven themselves into the fabric of your life, and you’ve fully embraced the fact that your time revolves around their needs.

You’ve Become a Walking Encyclopedia of Dog Knowledge

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At first, you might have just been a casual dog enthusiast. But since welcoming your dog into your life, you’ve become a certified dog expert. You know all about different breeds, training techniques, and the best dog food brands. You’ve memorized obscure facts about dog behavior and can offer advice to new dog owners. Conversations at social gatherings inevitably turn to discussions about your dog’s latest antics, and you’re more than happy to share your wisdom. Your dog has quietly transformed you into a resource for all things canine, and you’re loving every minute of it.

You Share Your Bed Without Hesitation

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Once upon a time, you had a firm rule: no dogs in the bed. But over time, those puppy-dog eyes and adorable cuddles have worn you down. Now, not only is your dog sleeping in the bed, but they also take up more space than you do. You’ve adjusted to sleeping around them, and any discomfort is worth the joy of having your furry friend close by. What started as a boundary has evolved into an unspoken agreement—you’ll gladly share your bed for a little extra warmth and companionship, and your dog knows they’ve won.

You Have a Camera Just for Watching Your Dog

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Technology has come a long way, and dog lovers are taking full advantage of it. If you’ve invested in a doggy cam to keep an eye on your pup while you’re at work or out running errands, it’s a clear sign your dog has completely captured your heart. Whether you’re checking in to see if they’re napping or making sure they’re not chewing on furniture, you can’t help but miss them when you’re apart. You find yourself replaying clips of their cutest moments, and your day just feels brighter knowing they’re safe and sound—even if you’ve already watched those videos multiple times.

You Talk to Your Dog Like They’re a Person

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Yes, we all talk to our dogs. But there’s a difference between casually chatting with your dog and having full-blown conversations with them. If you’ve started asking your dog for their opinions or narrating your day to them, congratulations—you’ve crossed into full dog person territory. You know they can’t respond, but you swear their head tilts and tail wags are answers in their own way. Whether you’re venting about work, sharing your excitement about dinner plans, or simply telling them how much you love them for the hundredth time that day, your dog has become your best listener.

You’re More Excited About Dog Social Events Than Human Ones

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There was a time when you looked forward to brunch with friends or a fun night out. But now? Dog playdates, puppy yoga classes, and dog-friendly festivals are where it’s at. You’ve discovered a whole new social world centered around dogs, and you’re all in. Whether it’s meeting other dog owners at the park or attending dog-themed events, you find yourself looking forward to these gatherings more than anything else. Your dog has not only expanded your social circle but has also redefined what you consider a “fun” outing.

You’ve Embraced the Dog Hair

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Dog hair is everywhere—on your couch, in your car, and probably even in your morning coffee. And instead of stressing about it, you’ve learned to embrace it as part of your life. Lint rollers and vacuum cleaners are always within reach, but you no longer sweat the small stuff. You’ve accepted that a little (or a lot) of dog hair is just part of the deal when it comes to living with a dog. It’s a small price to pay for the unconditional love and joy your dog brings into your life, and you wear that stray hair with pride.

You Spend More on Dog Toys Than on Yourself

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If you’ve found yourself walking out of the pet store with an armful of new toys for your dog—and nothing for yourself—you’ve officially been converted into a full-fledged dog person. Every trip to the store includes a stop in the toy aisle, and your dog’s collection of squeaky toys, ropes, and balls is more impressive than your own hobbies. Whether it’s the joy of watching them play or the guilty feeling that they “deserve” something new, you can’t help but spoil them. Your dog has mastered the art of making you prioritize their fun, and you happily oblige.

The Paw-fect Ending to Your Dog Person Journey

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If you thought you couldn’t become more of a dog person, your furry friend likely had other plans. From adjusting your schedule to fit their needs to proudly embracing dog hair as part of your wardrobe, these subtle transformations happen before you even realize it. Your dog knows exactly how to turn you into the ultimate dog lover—whether it’s through sweet snuggles, playful antics, or charming personality. And let’s be honest: deep down, you wouldn’t have it any other way because life is better with them.