Does My Pet Hate Me?

If you've ever thought to yourself, "My dog doesn't like me," or "Why do I have such a standoffish cat?" rest assured that you aren't the only pet parent who has these concerns. From time to time, dogs and cats may appear distant, but that doesn't mean you can't bond with your furry friend and certainly doesn't mean your pet hates you.

My Dog Doesn't Like Me – What Should I Do?

When it's time to welcome a dog into your home, you may imagine cuddling, fun training games and lots of playtime. Unfortunately, that's not always the case. There can be an adjustment period for both dogs and humans, so remind yourself that sometimes when you may think "My dog doesn't like me," he's really just taking time to get to know you. It takes patience to earn trust, so keep playing the role of the pack leader, and your dog should warm up to you.

If you've had your dog for a while, it can be alarming to suddenly wonder, "Maybe my dog doesn't like me anymore," especially if you've always had a close bond. This may be a reason to be concerned. Changes in behavior may indicate a health problem, so it's important to bring your dog to the veterinarian. Health isn't the only reason a dog's behavior changes. A dog who suddenly becomes disinterested in his pack may be experiencing a wide range of emotions, such as jealousy, anxiety or depression. Has anything changed in your home environment recently? Maybe someone moved into your home (or out of it). Maybe you've been taking him for walks less often than usual. Any changes in routine, even small ones, may be reason for your dog to act disinterested in you.

It's also important to make sure that you're respecting your dog's personality and not just assuming, "I guess my dog doesn't like me," when really his personality is different than your expectations. Here's a pertinent example from Vetstreet: "Some dogs love to snuggle and be held, while others only tolerate touch. If your dog doesn't enjoy petting, but you keep trying to touch him, it's very likely your dog will avoid you."

Finally, age may play a role in your dog appearing distant. A formerly playful pup now suffering with arthritis may lounge in bed instead of getting up to chase a ball. His change in behavior doesn't mean he no longer loves spending time with you, he's just adjusting to his elder years.

Tips for Bonding with Your Dog

There are many ways you can form a bond or rebuild a relationship with your dog. Here are a few examples you can try right away:

• Take your dog for daily walks.
• Feed your dog meals at consistent times throughout the day.
• Play games with your dog, such as fetch or run a dog obstacle course.
• Pet or groom your dog nightly.
• Share treats during training exercises or for good behavior.

How to Deal with a Standoffish Cat

While many cats are warm, loving and full of cuddles, the species as a whole is known for being independent. So, you're not alone if you think you have a standoffish cat. Often, cats like partaking in solo activities and require less one-on-one time with their humans than dogs. Her independence doesn't mean that starting a training routine is a bad idea. In fact, the time you spend training your cat will help to build a relationship. While their independent nature may not be what you were hoping for, give it time. After a while she'll realize that you are her source of food, toys, cat trees and more and her affection for you will start to grow.

However, your cat may suddenly appear distant, and it's important to address this with her vet to rule out health concerns. Cats seclude themselves and lose interest in their pet parents when they feel ill or when something is wrong. Rule out feline health concerns, such as arthritis, diabetes or kidney disease, which are three of the seven most common illnesses in senior cats, says PetMD.

If your cat is young and healthy or once your cat gets a clean bill of health, understand that your cat isn't being intentionally rude; she just shows her affection in different ways. According to PetMD, here is one way your cat may try to show her love: "The head bump. It's her way of saying hello, by using the oil glands in front of her ears to greet you as if you're a cat and leave her scent on you. She sees you as one of her clan, so bump her right back."

Tips for Bonding with Your Cat

There are many ways you can show your love to your cat. Here are a few examples you can try right away to help rebuild a bond or start a new relationship on the right foot, or ... paw:

• Feed your cat meals at consistent times throughout the day.
• Play games with your cat, such as waving a feather wand or throwing a toy mouse.
• Pet or groom your cat nightly.
• Share treats (a few kibbles of her food will work) while playing or to initiate contact.
• Start a conversation by meowing or purring at her.

Just remember, it may appear that your dog or cat seem distant, but that doesn't mean your pet doesn't love you. Address any changes to their lives to determine why they might seem distant, spend time together and soon you'll enjoy a happy, loving relationship.