15 Questions Every Dog Owner Has Argued About at Least Once

Having a dog is one of the most rewarding experiences on the planet—but let’s not pretend it’s all wagging tails and adorable head tilts. Behind every cute Instagram moment is at least one passionate debate between dog owners. So, let’s talk about the 15 questions every dog owner has probably argued about at least once.

Should dogs be allowed on the furniture?

One side says, “They’re family—they belong anywhere we do,” while the other side gestures to a couch covered in fur and muddy paw prints. This debate often begins when a freshly bathed dog hops onto the clean bed with zero hesitation. For some, cuddling on the couch is essential bonding time. For others, it’s a boundary that matters.

Is crate training helpful or cruel?

Crate training divides households fast. Some see it as a tool that provides structure, safety, and comfort. Others feel it’s confinement that restricts a dog’s natural movement and freedom. The argument often centers around the dog’s age, temperament, and past experiences. Supporters cite training success and anxiety reduction, while critics argue it can be overused or misapplied.

Should you let your dog sleep in your bed?

At first, it might be a cute one-night exception. Then suddenly, your dog is taking up half the mattress, and your back’s out of alignment. Some owners feel it strengthens the human-dog bond, offering comfort and closeness. Others prefer a clean, fur-free bed and uninterrupted sleep. The debate usually intensifies when there’s a human partner in the mix.

Do dogs need jackets in cold weather?

The battle lines are drawn: “He has fur!” vs. “He’s shivering!” Some people believe dogs were built for the elements, while others insist certain breeds—especially smaller or short-haired ones—benefit from an extra layer in the winter. The argument gets louder when someone buys a $60 parka, and another person insists it’s just for show. Sometimes, it’s about temperature. Sometimes it’s about pride. But always, it’s about what your dog will tolerate without looking personally offended.

Should you feed your dog human food?

A piece of chicken here, a bite of toast there—it seems harmless, right? Until someone realizes the dog now refuses kibble and expects a seat at the table. Some owners are strict: no table food, ever. Others treat their dog to scraps with a guilty smile and a “just this once” promise they never keep. It’s a debate that blends nutrition, training, and sheer willpower. And it almost always ends with a dog staring longingly while dinner gets passive-aggressively eaten in silence.

Is it okay to leave your dog alone all day?

Life is busy, and not every schedule is dog-friendly. The question of how long is too long to leave a dog alone sparks endless guilt and disagreement. Some say dogs are fine for a workday nap stretch. Others insist anything over four hours requires a dog walker, a pet sitter, or at least a puzzle toy army. The conversation often reflects personal priorities, work-from-home realities, and how your dog reacts.

How often should dogs really be bathed?

Once a week? Once a month? Once, when they roll in something horrifying? Bath time brings out the differences in dog-parent philosophies. Some think frequent baths are a must for cleanliness and skin health. Others argue too much washing strips natural oils and should be avoided. The fight usually starts with someone noticing a smell—and ends with one person scrubbing while the other dry-heaves or negotiates from the hallway.

Is raw food better than kibble?

This one is basically the gluten-free-vs-bread debate of the dog world. Raw feeders believe in biologically appropriate nutrition and fresher ingredients. Kibble supporters prioritize convenience, cost, and vet-recommended formulas. Emotions run high on both sides, especially in online communities. Each camp has its own research, success stories, and horror stories.

Should you get a second dog?

One person thinks a second dog means double the love. The other thinks it means double the chaos and vet bills. What starts as “Wouldn’t it be cute?” quickly turns into a spreadsheet of expenses and a debate over space, time, and training. The tipping point often comes when the first dog starts looking lonely—or when an adoption listing shows up in someone’s inbox at 2 a.m.

Do dogs actually need clothes—or is it just for Instagram?

Some dogs hate wearing anything. Others strut like runway models in sweaters and booties. Owners argue whether it’s for function, warmth, or just fashion. The practical camp says “only when necessary,” while the stylish camp has seasonal wardrobes and themed outfits. Somewhere in the middle is the dog wearing socks and a confused expression while two people whisper-argue over whether this counts as enrichment or humiliation.

Is it okay to let dogs kiss you on the face?

“You know where that tongue’s been, right?” is usually how this argument starts. Some people love the affection and don’t care about germs. Others are horrified by the very idea. This discussion gets especially awkward when the kiss happens mid-conversation. The dog, of course, sees no problem. They’re just sharing love—with or without your consent.

Are dog parks a great idea or a disaster waiting to happen?

Dog parks can be paradise or pure chaos. Some owners swear by them for socialization and exercise. Others avoid them like the plague due to unpredictable dogs, inattentive owners, or just general overstimulation. The debate typically begins after one bad incident or one amazing one. Either way, both camps agree: if you go, watch your dog. And maybe avoid the person whose husky just body-checked a poodle into next week.

Should you adopt or buy from a breeder?

This question can split even the most polite conversation in two. Advocates for adoption emphasize saving lives and reducing shelter overcrowding. Supporters of breeders often cite predictability, health screenings, and specific lifestyle fits. Both sides feel strongly, and misunderstandings happen fast. The best conversations come from compassion on both ends—and a shared understanding that how you get your dog matters less than how you love and care for them afterward.

Do dogs need daily walks—even with a backyard?

“He has a yard” often turns into “he hasn’t walked in three days.” Some say daily walks are essential for stimulation and bonding. Others feel a big yard and some toys are enough. The debate often hinges on breed, age, weather, and time. What’s universally agreed on, though, is that your dog knows the word ‘walk’—and will absolutely use that knowledge to emotionally manipulate the household.

Who’s the dog’s favorite person—and why?

It starts as a joke and ends in low-level resentment. One person feeds, walks, and trains. The other just exists—and somehow, they’re the favorite. Suddenly, there’s tension during cuddle time and quiet competition over who gets greeted first at the door. Of course, your dog loves you both—but let’s be honest, we’re all secretly keeping score. And if you have to ask who the favorite is… it’s probably not you.