AITAH for Choosing My Dog Over My Girlfriend?
His live-in girlfriend proposed that he give away his seven-year-old dog, Max, because of space issues and the dog’s mess. The man, who loved Max very much, declined, stating that the dog was part of his family. Following an emotional dispute, the girlfriend walked out, leaving the man feeling torn.
Even though he regrets distressing her, he is reluctant to give up his dog and is uncertain about his decision. See the original story below…
‘ AITAH for Choosing My Dog Over My Girlfriend?’
Recently, my girlfriend (28F) and I (30M) were involved in a significant dispute. I have had my dog, Max, for more than seven years. He has been a steadfast friend to me, always there during difficult and good times. My girlfriend moved in with me several months ago, and while she is wonderful, she doesn’t like Max, stating that he occupies too much room and is untidy.
She proposed one day that I find a new place for him, which really stung and took me by surprise. I responded that Max was part of my family and that my life would be empty without him. The conversation ended with her walking out in a huff, and now I feel awful. I don’t want to be seen as the villain, but I can’t just give up my dog.
Was I wrong to stick to my guns? Or should I have been more sensitive to her emotions? I genuinely just want to act justly.
Heres the input from the Reddit crowd:
Gonebabythoughts − You and Max are a package deal, and she should not have thought she could mess with that. You should let her know that this isn’t working out and she needs to find somewhere else to be.
Ozzytheaussy − If you dropped the dog for a girl I’d think very little of you. I have a dog, he’s a pain but I love the little fella. If a girl said the dog or her….. my dog will always be picked because he’s the only one willing to stand by you no matter what
Brighton_Spores − It can be really difficult to rehome a dog. But for $200 you can fix this situation easily! Take your girlfriend to a bar give her $100 to buy some drinks and tell her that instead of rehoming Max, you are going to rehome her. She is free to find another home and boyfriend and this bar is an excellent place to do that goodbye.
A little bit of sadness might creep in here, so how about we lift our spirits by taking Max for an evening stroll? Just look at him hopping about out there, what a goofy little guy. I bet that will make you feel at least somewhat happier. And on the way back, pick up a six-pack and a couple of pizzas.
Rent a film, pop a beer, and grab a piece of that tasty pizza at home, one for you, one for Max. Give Max a pet and a hug, “Best friends forever, eh Max?” You’ll remember Max accepted your girlfriend when she moved in. Your girlfriend didn’t accept Max; she wants to abandon him at a shelter. I know who I’d rather spend time with.
WatchingTellyNow − I know this is reddit, and I’m kind of ashamed for saying this, but… Be careful she doesn’t try to re-home him (read: d**p him off somewhere) while you’re not around and claim he “ran away”, or otherwise harm him. Better, she can move out again.
Max is a much better match for you. If she pressures you to pick, she should anticipate that she won’t be chosen. Not the Asshole. I’m flattered by the awards, thank you!
Lumpy-Lifeguard4114 − Rethink your relationship with anyone that does not like dogs. She should never have agreed to move in with you if she knew she wasn’t into Max. Keep Max, rehome woman.
mamabear131 − NTA. My now husband would have dumped me in a heartbeat if I hadn’t loved his dog. She was the goodest girl ever and I still miss her 15 years later. I’d bet money that your (hopefully former) GF pretty much planned on making you give up your best friend and family member. She just chose her moment.
You would be the a**hole if you abandoned Max; he is completely devoted to you. She does not deserve to be in his life.
throwthetrollaway12 − NTA – bye bye girlfriend
Snowing2024 − I’m a female with cats. If you love your dog as I love my cats, rehome the human, keep the dog. If you intend to have a relationship with a human after this one, make sure human knows the dog is family and will never, under any circumstance, be kicked out.
terrificblythe − NTA. Max was with you before your girlfriend and will continue to be with you after (if she keeps making unreasonable demands like this). Stick with your f**ry best friend, they’ll never betray you like a human can.
SparkleTraveler − ***You and Max are a package deal.***She knew that getting into into your relationship. If she is saying he should be “rehomed” she will always a be a miserable b**ch. She can go, the dog can stay, send her on her way.**
Should he have conceded, or was it correct to retain Max? Let us know what you think in the comments!
