Does your dog get in the way when you and your partner are in the mood to have some adult time alone? If so, you aren’t alone! Dogs don’t always understand the meaning of personal space and are known for being nosy. Although many dog owners are embarrassed about talking about their sex life with their dog trainers, it’s actually quite common. If you struggle to have alone time with your partner, here are some tips to help your dog from ruining your sex life.
Why Dogs Are in The Way
To address the issue you’re having in the bedroom (related to your dog’s presence), it’s essential to figure out the root cause. For some people, the problem isn’t your dog’s behavior; it’s just about the dog being there. Some may feel uncomfortable with having a dog in the bedroom during sex. Other people are uncomfortable with their dog watching while they have sex, which can hinder one’s mood. In other instances, a curious dog may try to jump up to investigate. Understandably, this is a major mood killer for people.
Talk to Your Partner
Even if your dog in the bedroom doesn’t bother you, have an open conversation with your partner about their comfort level. If you or your partner aren’t comfortable having your dog in the bedroom, respect that and keep your dog in another part of your home during sex.
Try not to be embarrassed about having the conversation; being able to talk openly about your boundaries regarding sex is important in any healthy relationship. It’s ok for someone not to want a canine voyeur watching from the other side of the bedroom or, even worse, on the bed. On the other hand, if everyone is comfortable, and your dog sleeps quietly in their area of the bedroom, it’s also fine to allow your dog in the room. Figure out what’s most comfortable for you and your partner.
Give Your Dog Their Space
If you want your dog out of your bedroom while having sex, it’s helpful to create a comfortable place for your dog. Set up your dog’s own space in another area of your house. Give your dog a comfortable bed and their favorite toys. If your dog still won’t give you and your partner space, try a chew, food-stuffed toy, or puzzle toy. This keeps your dog occupied and focused on their activity so you can have alone time together. Create a routine where your dog goes to another area of the house to find rewarding activities solo. Soon enough, your dog will seek out going to their special place while you head off to the bedroom.
Create Boundaries
You can physically prevent your dog from coming into the bedroom when you and your partner are having sex. Try crating your dog in another area of your home. Alternatively, close your bedroom door or put a baby gate up at the stairway or hallway leading to your bedroom. Without being able to get into your room, your dog will go and settle in their area while you have some private time with your partner. Another tip is to build an enrichment toy for your dog, so your dog is kept extra busy.
Still, Struggling?
If you’re still struggling to find time for a sex life, it’s ok to ask for help! If your dog is distressed or unable to settle while you are in another area of your house having private time with your partner, consider working with a dog trainer. Certified trainers can help your dog learn to settle independently.
Find Time When Your Dog Isn’t Home
If you have a social dog who goes to daycare, schedule days for your dog at daycare to coincide with date days with your partner. Alternatively, schedule time with a dog walker (or dog sitter) to have alone time with your partner.
