I don’t think “everyone should have a dog” actually

I love dogs. All dogs. I adore puppies and seniors and hounds in their prime. Our long history of coevolution amazes me. Man’s best friend deserves better from us.

And this love for dogs is precisely why I do not believe everyone who likes the idea of a canine companion should go get one. (It’s not uncommon for Sean or I to say something like “wouldn’t this be nicer with fewer dogs around?” while out in a busy environment.)

Hear me out: Could life be better, for people and pets alike, if fewer of us were responsible for dogs full time? Or if we at least asked ourselves more critical questions before bringing home a new family member? I know this can be a pretty controversial take… so I’ve spent some more time pondering.

Here are a few reflections.