Proud Dog Mom Gives Deserving Reply to Mother-in-Law for Saying That Their Dog Isn't "Pretty Enough" for Them
A proud dog mom just tried to bring home a loving rescue, and somehow her mother-in-law turned it into a beauty contest. The OP’s dog may not fit some imaginary “pretty enough” standard, but the bond is real, the dog’s sweet, and the family is already adjusting to life with a big, older rescue.
Here’s where it gets messy: the mother-in-law doesn’t just make a passing comment, she implies the dog is beneath them. Meanwhile, OP has a whole list of why they chose an older dog in the first place, from already being potty trained to avoiding the chaos of a puppy with a toddler at home.
And then, after the comments roll in, OP finally gives a deserving reply that shuts down the negativity fast.
The OP writes
OP's dog still needs some training
OP's mom says she'll get in touch with a breeder
That “isn’t pretty enough” jab lands right after OP shares that their rescue still needs some training, like that somehow makes it worse.
Social comparison theory suggests that we evaluate our self-worth based on how we perceive others, which can significantly impact self-esteem.
In this case, the mother-in-law's comments may reflect her own insecurities projected onto the dog, which can affect family dynamics.
Here's a picture of the OP's rescue dog
And the comments roll in...
Congrats on the newest family member
While OP’s mom says she’ll “get in touch with a breeder,” the thread is also busy praising the dog’s adorable face and calling the pup part of the family.
Interestingly, this phenomenon can also lead to conflicts over perceived social status within family units.
This is also like the woman fuming after her mother-in-law cropped her Doberman’s ears without permission.
It helps with scar tissue
OP reveals why they decided to get an older dog
I've always had dogs; they have always been from the pound or shelters. Some puppies, some adults.
It really depends on what you're comfortable with. We decided to get an adult for several reasons: 1. already potty trained (currently trying to potty train our daughter, so I thought it might be too much to do both). 2. We're renting and didn't want a puppy chewing up things around the house (walls, molding, cabinets). 3. Adult dogs are often overlooked, especially "broken" ones, and shelters will sometimes give discounts. 4. With our kids being so young (2 and 7 months), we wanted a dog out of the crazy rambunctious stage. 5. There's been an increase in home invasions in our area, so we wanted a big dog to scare people off.
All dogs are different. The key is patience...lots and lots of it, whether with a rescue or a puppy.
The dog is adorable
Comments that piss this redditor off
OP then explains why they chose an older dog, pointing to potty training, renting, and the fact they did not want puppy damage while raising a 2-year-old and a baby.
Encouraging Positive Family Dynamics
To foster positive family relationships, it's essential to encourage acceptance and appreciation of differences.
Creating an environment where everyone feels valued, regardless of appearance, can lead to stronger family bonds.
Show quality puppies
Don't listen to her
The dog's gorgeous
By the time people are saying “don’t listen to her” and “the dog is gorgeous,” the family dinner energy has clearly shifted from hurt feelings to straight up receipts.
For individuals facing criticism, practicing self-compassion can be incredibly beneficial.
Encouraging family members to express appreciation for one another can enhance emotional well-being and strengthen relationships.
Though dogs are generally thought to be cute, it appears that we are hardwired to find our own dogs particularly endearing, as they grow up to be significant members of the family. Like proud parents, we name them, celebrate their birthdays, and show them their pictures.
The OP and her husband are proud of their dog and wouldn't trade her for anything. That is all that matters, and we're glad they defended her from the pink lady.
The recent exchange highlighted in the article sheds light on the complexities of social dynamics within families.
The mother-in-law may have wanted a prettier dog, but OP brought home the kind that earns love, not approval.
Next, see how a Redditor told his mom dogs love squeaky toys, and she doubled down.
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