First dates are almost always daunting. Whether you meet someone on an app or in person, the pressures of dating can overwhelm even the most confident people. Everyone has their own ways of dealing with first-date stress. Some might have a drink to calm their nerves. Others workout before the date to release some extra stress. Some people bring their dogs.
But is bringing your dog on a first date acceptable? It depends. If you’re asking this question yourself, you might find some of the Reddit advice we found about this topic helpful.
The Location of the Date Matters
This should go without saying, but if the date is already planned and the location isn’t conducive to dogs, don’t bring your dog. If the date is outside, that gives you a little more leeway. This Redditor notes that his date wanted to bring a dog to drinks on a patio, which is a very okay place to bring a dog. A five star restaurant, however, is not so okay.
Always Ask Beforehand
You wouldn’t blindside a date by bringing a human child along; the same applies to bringing your dog. This Redditor says that her date brought his dog without warning — twice. Needless to say, he didn’t get a third date. On the flipside, this Redditor says that she feels safer bringing her dog along to outdoor first dates and always asks beforehand. This gets our seal of approval.
Make Sure Their Behavior Is in Check
No one wants to agree to a doggy date companion who is going to bark — or bite — your ear off. This Redditor writes about a man who asks to bring his dog everywhere, but the pup is very well-behaved. For non-dog lovers, this is crucial. This Redditor was asked out by a girl who stated that she would be accompanied by her protective, vocal dog. They didn’t make it to the date.
Don’t Force It
This Redditor shares a tale of first date horror. His date violated every rule of bringing your dog on a first date. She changed locations at the last minute, moving the date from a restaurant to her home, with the promise of a “surprise.” You guessed it — our Reddit friend was met with two puppies she had decided to foster that day. Not only did she require him to help take care of the puppies, but she also failed to properly introduce her own dog, who took issue with men.
When in doubt, don’t force your date to meet your dog. If they show even an ounce of hesitation, leave your dog at home. Aside from possibly making them uncomfortable, the presence of your pooch may result in not getting a second date. If bringing your dog is a must, try to find someone who’s just as dog-focused as you. Odds are, you might be a better match anyway.
