I’ll admit that as an allergic person, I did not know about Wag and thought it was some weird thing you were into. Like, maybe people who love dogs but don’t have one go to a dog park, pay some cash, and role play – and that’s what it means to “do Wag.”

For those who don’t know, Wag is a dog-walking app where you can sign up to walk dogs. Makes more sense.

Moving on, though.

I think you should try to enjoy this relationship, and then settle somewhere transparency and kindness.

Let’s say this was a significant others’s kid or parent. You might express concern and frustration, but you wouldn’t say, “Wow, this person in your life is the worst!” You’d give your paramour credit for caring for someone who can’t always return the favor. You’d be open to looking for all the best parts of their complicated loved one.

This is the same thing. Sure, you can express irritation sometimes – but also show that you accept the dog as part of the picture. No big eye rolls. It won’t mean that you’re keeping something from your potential partner. It’s about compassion and generosity.

Make sure you ask for some time without the dog. Is it possible to get out for an hour or two without company? That’s the bigger concern here – that the person you’re dating is never fully present because the dog is always there, needing attention. A person wouldn’t bring kids on every outing. If it seems impossible to leave without the dog, this is a great time to ask, “Is there a way we can go out alone? I’d love to have a few hours of uninterrupted time. Who does a great job taking care of the dog when you need to be engaged elsewhere?”

Continue to date this person and see how it feels. Instead of a pokerface, find an “sometimes annoyed, but always empathetic” face. It’s a bit more loving.

– Meredith