I don't know how to cope with the fact that I've been a horrible dog owner

Dogs
1

Edit: Thank you all so much for the support in the comments! I’ve always been hard on myself, and I posted this during a rough moment. I’m going to take the advice shared and start giving my girl more love and care.

I’ve had my dog for almost 9 years, but I don’t feel like I’ve given her the life she deserves. We rarely take her for walks, and I don’t play with her daily. She spends time outside on a small patio, but that’s about it. She’s never been destructive, so I’ve told myself she doesn’t mind, but I feel guilty.

I got her when I was 10, and she’s been with me ever since, but I didn’t know much about being a responsible dog owner back then. We struggled to potty train her, and for years, she lived outside. She’s inside now, but we still don’t walk her much. I feel like I’ve failed her, and it weighs on me constantly.

I know I could do better, but I always find excuses. It’s too hot, too cold, or I’m too busy. I struggle with motivation, maybe because of depression, but it doesn’t make it right. She’s such a sweet dog, and I hate that I’m not giving her the attention and care she deserves.

It breaks my heart because I love her so much, but I feel like she only loves me because she doesn’t know any better. I’m scared to post this because I know I’ve messed up, but I needed to get this off my chest. Please be honest with me. I just want to be a better dog owner.

2

She’s alive, safe, and not in a shelter. You give her food, affection, and a place to run. You might be being too hard on yourself. Sure, you could work on training, but it sounds like her life is fine overall. You got this!

3

You were only 10 when you got her, and that’s really young to be responsible for a dog. But now you’re 18/19, and you can start doing better by her. Even short walks a couple of times a week would be a good start. She loves you no matter what, and that’s all that matters to her.

4

Depression can really kill motivation, and that’s tough. It sounds like you’re feeling overwhelmed. Maybe try setting small goals, like walking her a couple of times a week or playing for 5 minutes each day. Just little steps can make a big difference.

5

Honestly, it sounds like she’s happy. She’s not in a shelter, and you clearly care for her. If she had behavior problems, that would be a different story, but it seems like she’s content. Don’t be so hard on yourself!

6

It’s tough to admit when we’re not doing our best, but that’s the first step toward change. You’re already on the right path just by realizing this. You can absolutely do this!