Taking a dog in heat for a walk can be quite a task. Female dogs in heat can become more aggressive and territorial, making walks potentially risky as they might confront other dogs or even people.
Additionally, female dogs emit strong pheromones when in heat, attracting male dogs from a distance. This can lead to unwanted attention and encounters, causing stress and possible danger for both dogs and their owners.
One Reddit user shared her predicament, asking, “AITA for not wanting to completely change when I walk my dog?” OP has a female dog who regularly plays with a neighbor’s dog. However, her dog is now in heat, complicating their usual routine. The neighbor sent OP his schedule and requested she adjust hers to avoid interactions.
OP agreed but didn’t plan to follow through, assuming their paths wouldn’t cross often. Despite this, the dogs continued to meet, prompting angry messages from the other dog owner.
These encounters became frequent, further irritating the neighbor, who again asked OP to change her walking schedule.
OP feels this is the neighbor’s issue and believes he should manage his own dog. Here’s the full story:
OP shares her story on Reddit.
OP and her dog have a regular playmate, but things changed when her dog went into heat.
The neighbor sent his schedule, asking OP to adjust hers to avoid meetings.
OP agreed but didn’t change her routine, thinking they wouldn’t encounter each other.
The dogs met, leading to an angry text from the neighbor.
He texted OP again, requesting different walking times.
OP believes this is the neighbor’s responsibility.
OP thinks the neighbor should control his own dog.
OP asks if she’s in the wrong.
OP explains: “They need to train their dog better.”
Another comment: “Training is difficult when an unneutered male smells a female in heat.”
A Redditor’s opinion:
Spaying has many health benefits.
No one can dictate where or when you walk your dog, but…
Has OP considered other options?
Another user believes OP shouldn’t have to change her schedule.
A suggestion: “This might work…”
It’s essential to be mindful of the challenges when walking a dog in heat and take proper precautions. This includes avoiding areas with other dogs, using a leash for control, and being prepared to intervene if necessary to prevent any aggressive or inappropriate behavior.
