🚨Is it dangerous to Anthropomorphize dogs?

Is it wrong to treat your dog like a small furry human?

Well... No.. but also Yes, when it compromises a dog's wellbeing.

I love my dogs. Hell, I love your dogs. I love so many dogs =) I have relatives that might talk about how I love dogs TOO much. And yes, I treat them like they are people some of the time.

Dogs are sentient beings. They have feelings and emotions similar to the ones we feel. While their minds may differ in certain ways, we all thrive on kindness, love, compassion, and the deeper value of having agency and choice.

Sometimes I do it on purpose ;)

I often intentionally anthropomorphize dogs when working with clients because hearing stories of struggle we can relate to fosters greater empathy for our dogs.

I might intentionally tell these stories to help people understand:

anxious dogs
adolescent dogs
frustrated dogs

... you get the picture!

It is absolutely ok to anthropomorphize when it benefits our dog.

When is it harmful?

Anthropomorphizing becomes a problem when it hinders our dogs from having their needs met. Often, this comes up when a dog needs space or rest time.

I commonly see people struggle with:

Leaving their dog at home rather than take them to busy places that will overwhelm them.
Separating their dog from babies, puppies, kids, or visitors. Separation does not mean isolation.
Giving their dogs rest days.

Here's a quote from a student about her dog who started guarding under the baby's highchair:

Christina advised us to use a baby gate and put him away from the action so he wasn't as worried. But I worried he was going to feel left out, and alone, and not part of the family.....when in reality, he actually is way less stressed, relaxed and happier away from us.

(On-Line) Leash Reactivity Deep Dive
Starts March 5th, 2025!

Registration is now OPEN for the LEASH REACTIVITY DEEP-DIVE, my group mentorship program in which I spend 8 weeks with a small group of people struggling with leash reactivity. Submit videos, ask questions, and meet awesome people and dogs.

You'll receive daily support and feedback on your training for 8 whole weeks. This is a fantastic way to jump start your training and to get some real progress for both your dog and yourself.

Have fun, build your dog's skills and confidence, as well as your own.

Seriously... this is so much fun. I hope you'll join us!

Click for Info on the Deep Dive!