‘It's like he was indirectly giving his opinion about my looks and using his dog as an excuse’: Woman cancels dinner date because her boyfriend claims his pet criticizes her appearance, sparking debate

In a viral post, a Redditor, Laura (u/LauraJade2013) has shared her encounter at her new boyfriend's house after meeting with his dog for the first time.

The 25-year-old woman said she's been dating her 31-year-old boyfriend, Michael, for four months, and had only ever seen his dog in pictures and videos.

The plan was for her to go to Michael's house and cook dinner, where she could meet his dog at the same time. However, after the couple sat down to talk, she noticed his pet was moving around “in a funny way.” Michael laughed at this, and, feeling puzzled, she asked him what his dog was actually doing. It was then that things got weird.

“Michael said that the dog was telling him about me. I was like 'ummm okay?' and then he flat out said that the dog thought I was 'ugly',” she recalled.

“This shocked me completely. I looked at Michael and asked if he was serious. He started explaining that his dog is 'like that' with 'some' people and that I shouldn't get offended over an 'animal's behaviour.”

“I felt horrible because I, as a person have always struggled with self-esteem and am no stranger to the word 'ugly'. My issue wasn't with the dog but with what Michael said. It's like he was indirectly giving his opinion about my looks and using his dog as an excuse.”

An argument ensued, and she ended up cancelling dinner altogether and just heading home. Michael called her several times, and when she eventually picked up, he accused her of “overreacting”.

She continued: “He advised me to get rid of the 'toxic' sensitivity I have and deal with whatever insecurity I have as soon as possible because what happen will set the tone for our relationship and eventually our marriage later.”

Although her sister has since told her she should have just “laughed it off”, other Redditors are divided on to what degree Michael behaviour, is over the line.

One person advised: “So either your boyfriend is a total a****** who uses his dog to insult you. Or he truly believes his dog can speak to him telepathically.”

“Either way, he is not someone I would lose any sleep over. Thankfully you found out what a weird a****** he is only four months in. Drop the dead weight and tell your sister to get lost.”

Another cautioned: “Dogs don’t have those opinions. Michael was being cruel and using his dog as a conduit for that cruelty. Is his 'sarcasm' often at your expense? This is cruelty and rudeness, and he’s showing you what he is really like.”

“I’m sure you are not ugly, but he’s played to your insecurity. I loathe people who use sarcasm as a cover for nastiness. Please find someone who deserves you, your cooking and your consideration. Michael doesn’t.”

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