I (18) have a chiweenie as a family pet. She is 1 year old and likes to snuggle. I am the one in my family that takes care of her the most because I get home before everyone else (I walk home after school most days). My chiweenie likes to be with me most of the time because of this.
My brother (6 1/2) likes to play with the dog. The problem is that he likes to try and pick her up/carry her around, usually when she’s already sitting/lying down. Once she’s settled, my chiweenie will prefer not to be bothered and go to sleep. My brother will try to, regardless of how much the dog squirms, hold onto her and refuse to let her go.
He will not listen if you try to tell him nicely. He will start crying on purpose if you insist. This has been a problem ever since we got the dog.
Not too long ago, I was in my bed with my chiweenie and watching TV. My brother came into my room and tried to pick her up. She immediately started moving out of his grasp and he held onto her near her legs, pulling her closer to him. I told him to let her go, as she doesn’t want to be held right now. He didn’t listen, so I said it more firmly. He wouldn’t budge again, so I demanded that he let go of the dog because he was gonna hurt her. He let her go and immediately started crying, burying his face into his hands and being loud. My mom came out of her room and wanted to know what was going on, so I said that my brother was holding onto the dog and she (dog) didn’t want to be picked up right now.
My mom got mad and said we were pissing her off with the dog, that she’s not just my dog, and to let my brother play with her. I didn’t say anything back (she would’ve just gotten more mad) and resumed watching TV. My brother stopped crying immediately and played with the dog.
AITA for trying to make sure my brother doesn’t end up mishandling the dog?
NTA – This type of stuff is why children end up getting bitten and dogs get put down. Dogs do not like to be picked up and dragged around by little kids when they are settled and trying to sleep, or in general. There are tons of dog trainers online who have videos about boundaries that should be set with dogs and little kids. I suggest you find some and show your mom.
You were protecting the dog from being mishandled, and you handled your brother appropriately when he wouldn’t listen. A squirming dog is saying “no,” and ignoring that can lead to injury or a bite.
Your mom’s reaction was about convenience, not safety—but you were right to step in. NTA.