r/DogAdvice•
gS_Mastermind

New rescue - Feeling inadequate

Advice

Let me by preface this by saying that my partner and I love this dog. She is a 1y/o rescue most likely picked up off the streets due to her being quite underweight and not being potty trained. It's been 2.5 weeks since we've had her and we've made huge progress with her thus far, and it feels like she's finally settling in and getting used to our schedule. But I feel like it's taking a toll on me and just needed somewhere to vent.

My partner is away for the week and I've been taking care of her myself with the help of friends which has gone really smoothly. However there are times where I feel like I'm giving and giving and getting nothing in return, which is making me feel like I'm not good enough. I'm a normal human with a good career and hobbies. We pour all our love into this little angel - doing research on how to give her the best life, food, consulting trainers, constantly trying to keep her mentally and physically stimulated. There are days where I can't be bothered to cook dinner and just order takeout as I'm worried about keeping her happy.

There are days where she is great and listens to commands. Then there is days like today. We had a friend watch her and when I got home she ran towards the door to greet me - it really made my day. Now it's 2 hours later and she's ignoring me, and only comes to me when I have a treat in my hand. Call her name 10 times and she just looks at me and sits there.

I know this is coming off as if I want a perfect dog but this isn't my intention. Most of our friends have dogs and I know each and everyone is unique and has their flaws. I don't compare her to other dogs because we love her for the little nervous, lazy goofball that she is. At this point I just feel a bit inadequate and like I'm just a machine that feeds her.

I really don't know where I was going with this but just needed to say it out loud to someone.

Posted Aug 14, 2025, 12:39 AM UTC

12
Loading comments…