What Is Your Pet Parenting Style?

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Quiz Questions

1.
When your dog starts dragging your socks through your house or chewing on the corner of your favorite rug, you...
- A.
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  Blame yourself for not focusing on her enough today! If she's a puppy, you'll likely put her back on the leash indoors so she has to stick with you, and you give her your sweatshirt to lay on so she feels close to you.
- B.
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  Reach for that box of toys you keep on rotation and you redirect your pup's attention by getting down on the floor and showing him what he can play with!
- C.
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  Shrug your shoulders and call your pup into the kitchen for a snack. It's what dogs DO, and you don't really like that rug anyway.
- D.
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  Immediately begin running through a short training sesh with your pup and end with practicing the command "leave it."
2.
It’s Friday night, and you and your squad are hittin' the town — what’re you wearing?
- A.
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  Ripped jeans and a graphic tee — and my squad includes my dog!
- B.
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  I'm going all out, girl. Whatever it is, it has to go with heels. I'll call the dog sitter, as it's likely going to be a late night.
- C.
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  Something weekend casual! If it's nice enough, we'll grab the pup for dinner on the patio.
- D.
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  Anything that gets us outside so we can unwind from the week. Yoga pants, hiking gear, or flip flops.
3.
What's your favorite way to bond with your pup?!
- A.
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  A brisk 15-minute walk a couple of times a day or some obedience training.
- B.
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  Tossing the ball in the yard or taking him to the dog park
- C.
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  We balance short play sessions with doggie massage.
- D.
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  We'll do some empathy exercises and then hide-and-seek.
4.
Today is not pretty. You spilled your coffee on your laptop this morning, now your computer is wonky, and you can't get that report deadline extended. How do you deal?
- A.
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  You didn't really need the extension anyway- the report almost done! You plan for things like this. You text your boss that it's good "as is," though you'll do a final edit tomorrow.
- B.
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  Things like this don't ruffle you. You take a few minutes to reset your energy, let go of what you can't control, and move forward.
- C.
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  No worries! You have a tight squad that's there for you in any emergency. Your BFF runs over with her laptop and you're good to go!
- D.
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  If you got upset over things like this, the day would just get worse. You embrace the "it is what it is" mentality.
5.
The First Words You Taught Your Pup Were:
- A.
  "Quiet" and "Here" or "Come"
- B.
  Her name and "Here" or "Come"
- C.
  Just her name.
- D.
  All the usual commands: Here, come, down, sit, wait, stay.
6.
What do you feed your pup?
- A.
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  Raw or lightly-cooked food. Many times, I cook the same thing for my pup that I'm cooking for myself.
- B.
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  I like to feed a variety of proteins, and I consult with our veterinarian if we plan to make any big changes.
- C.
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  I feed a high-quality kibble, but honestly I don't stress too much over it.
- D.
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  I try to use earth-friendly and animal-ethical foods; snacks are veggies or organic, simple ingredient treats.
7.
What question do you ask yourself the most?
- A.
  How can I be a calmer and more centered person?
- B.
  How can I get more space in my life for what I want?
- C.
  What's the best way to organize this next project?
- D.
  What's the best way for me to spend more time with friends and family?
8.
What type of health care do you provide for your pup?
- A.
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  I use a popular neighborhood vet, and my pup has health insurance.
- B.
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  Our veterinarian is a fear-free certified professional, and I use (or have thought about using) cbd oil before vet appointments so my pup is relaxed.
- C.
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  I use a holistic vet, one who expects us to be part of the healthcare team.
- D.
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  Well, we have a vet, but we also don't panic at every little stomach upset. A good dog-first-aid kit is our first line of defense.
9.
What are your favorite daily rituals with your dog?
- A.
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  Rituals? Really? My ritual is not having rituals....
- B.
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  Bedtime is our favorite ritual. I take off my pup's collar before bed just like I take off my makeup. I put lavender essential lotion on my hands and massage the extra bit onto her coat just before we sleep.
- C.
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  Bedtime is always at the same time, and my pup knows to settle down for the night in his crate. Sometimes, he puts himself to bed!
- D.
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  All our rituals involve cuddling. We have a morning snuggle with coffee, and then she sits next to me while I work or deal with calls. After dinner, we Netflix and chill.
10.
Let's talk boundaries. Do you use them?
- A.
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  Absolutely. I would be miserable without clear boundaries, although I do sometimes relax them.
- B.
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  I use them, but not as skillfully as I should. Sometimes I say "yes" to something just to avoid a battle.
- C.
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  Boundaries are for people who don't know how to connect in healthy ways. The most important thing we can do is make connections with others.
- D.
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  I don't really concern myself with the concept of boundaries unless something becomes a real problem. Then, I'll step up.

Quiz Outcomes

1.
My pet parent personality type is... Free-Range Mama!
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Overall PhilosophyAs a free-range mama, you love everything about your fur-baby, including the fact that he lives life to the fullest. While you’re not about to let your pup run into the street, you’re also not a hovering worrier who makes her pup afraid of his own shadow. Your VibeBecause you're so chill, your pup likely is too. He learned early on that loud noises and new things probably mean "adventure," something he's always up for. Like you, he's curious about his surroundings and pretty independent. While he knows he can count on you, he doesn't run to you for every little thing or constantly look to you for reassurance. Playtime You likely believe that dogs develop important skills through tearing up their toys, running through the house with toilet paper, or discovering things through trial and error. With your free-range parenting style, you’re sure to have plenty of tough toys in every room or a shovel outside to fill in any holes fido starts in the yard. You're happy to let your dog be a dog!ExerciseOutdoor play in a contained yard or dog park is one of your favorite ways of watching your dog let off steam. And you’re not a helicopter parent - unless it looks like someone could get seriously hurt, you let your pup eat grass, sniff butts, and sort out his own pack sitch. Training StyleFree-range mamas don't feel the need for rigid obedience training--as long as he isn't hurting himself or others, then you want him to enjoy life and follow his instincts. That doesn't mean you let him run amok. Instead, you work to foster independence and a sense of accomplishment for your dog. You've taught him "sit" and "down" and he of course knows not to jump on people. But otherwise, you're not really into expecting him to do party tricks or obey your every command. At HomeYour home is a warm and welcoming bit of chaos, and that's more than ok with you. Someone is always dropping in to say hi and enjoy a glass of wine, and they're the type of friends who don't mind shoving aside a dog toy or two (or three) to clear a place to sit down. What are the Pros and Cons of being a Free-Range Dog Mama? Pros: 🐶 Your pup knows how to self-sooth and likely has considerable confidence, because he knows he can figure things out on his own🐶Your pup enjoys life and rarely seems bored, sad, or stifled.🐶Your pup is usually enthusiastic about anything you want to do. Cons:🐶Your pup sometimes exasperates you, because he'll get into something when it's the least convenient time to deal with a mess. 🐶 Your pup isn't always ready for prime-time. Sometimes, you leave him behind because he's not as well-behaved as others expect him to be. 🐶 You'd be happier if he didn't pull quite so much on the leash.Are you a Small Dog Free-Range Mama? If you want to capitalize on the pros and minimize the cons of your parenting style, please join our email list, where we'll keep you in the loop on all things small dog. Hi there! We're the team at downward (sizing) dog.My name is Karen. I’m a writer, a long time dog lover, and the founder of downward (sizing) dog, a lifestyle brand that takes small dogs seriously. Although we love dressed-up Instagram pupfluencers as much as the next #dogmom, we're all about showing others that small dogs are as canine as the golden retriever or lab next door. We're literally writing the book on small dogs, and we're deeply committed to helping small dog families live their best lives. At downward (sizing) dog, we celebrate the powerful beings parceled in small dog frames. If you know the love of a small dog--or think you should--join our email list so you don't miss anything important. We'd love to have you!1) Join our twice-monthly email list. Learn about what's trending in the small dog world and catch up on any blog posts you've missed.2) Read our blog Where I share everything from the best new products for small dogs, their mamas, and the latest research on small dog care and training.
2.
My pet parent personality type is… Attachment Expert!
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Overall PhilosophyAs an attachment expert pup parent, you ignored the advice to let your puppy cry through the night in a crate, you’ve allowed her in your bed since day one, and you embrace the idea that YOU are your dog’s pack now.Your VibeBecause you're so connected to your pup, your pup is just as connected to you. She knows your moods, sometimes before you do, and she recognizes when you need some extra attention or when you're not feeling well. Like you, she's seems to have a sixth sense about people and places, knowing whom to trust and whom to steer clear of. Playtime When your dog starts stealing your socks or chewing on the corner of your favorite rug, you know it’s because she’s feeling disconnected to you and is seeking solace in your things. With your attachment parenting style, you’re apt to pick her up and cuddle while watching tv, or you’ll take the opportunity to hold her and rub her belly or play tug-of-war while you’re on that tedious Zoom call with the office. ExerciseWhatever it is the humans are doing, the dogs are doing. Paddleboarding, errands, hiking, biking….family togetherness is the rule.Training StyleAttachment mamas don't love rigid obedience training--you're more apt to find ways to create stronger bonds with your pup. During training time, you bring out those empathy exercises you learned in Canine Cognition school. Whether you’re practicing maintaining eye contact or playing hide-and-seek connection games, your ability to maintain mental threads to your pup is impressive. At HomeYour home is a warm and welcoming, with lots of cozy throws and strategically placed pillows. Every room is just as welcoming for your dog, with toy baskets close by and a snuggling spot on the sofa or bed. What are the Pros and Cons of being an Attachment Expert Mama? Pros: 🐶 You and your pup share an incredibly rewarding bond that makes both of you healthier and happier. 🐶You're more likely to catch health issues that arise with your pup.🐶Your pup is usually enthusiastic about anything you want to do. Cons:🐶Your pup can find it difficult to be left alone if he's too dependent on you for entertainment. 🐶 Your pup might not bond with others in the house.🐶 Your pup can become jealous and "resource-guard" YOU if others get too close.Are you a Small Dog Attachment Mama? If you want to capitalize on the pros and minimize the cons of your parenting style, please join our email list, where we'll keep you in the loop on all things small dog. Hi there! We're the team at downward (sizing) dog.My name is Karen. I’m a writer, a long time dog lover, and the founder of downward (sizing) dog, a lifestyle brand that takes small dogs seriously. Although we love dressed-up Instagram pupfluencers as much as the next #dogmom, we're all about showing others that small dogs are as canine as the golden retriever or lab next door. We're literally writing the book on small dogs, and we're deeply committed to helping small dog families live their best lives. At downward (sizing) dog, we celebrate the powerful beings parceled in small dog frames. If you know the love of a small dog--or think you should--join our email list so you don't miss anything important. We'd love to have you!1) Join our twice-monthly email list. Learn about what's trending in the small dog world and catch up on any blog posts you've missed.2) Read our blog Where I share everything from the best new products for small dogs, their mamas, and the latest research on small dog care and training.
3.
My pet parent personality type is… Peaceful Pup Parent!
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Overall PhilosophyAs peaceful pup parent, you’re all about using only positive redirection and reinforcement with your pup. It's a slow, steady process that requires deep stores of patience and consistency. But you've got those. Your VibeYou're all about moving through the world in as Zen-like a manner as possible. You surround yourself with people who commit to kindness in their interactions with humans and animals, and your relationship with your pup reflects that. Playtime When your dog starts tearing around the house with your socks or chewing on the corner of your favorite rug, you don’t withhold your love or banish him to his crate. You instead redirect his attention to a special box of toys you keep out of reach for just this occasion, and if that doesn't work, you employ that puppy acupressure technique you just learned to calm him down. ExerciseYou and your pup love mindful walks in nature--you hit your favorite park or city greenbelt on the daily. In your mind, tuning in to trees, flowers, the sky, and weather patterns brings automatic peace and balance to life. Training StylePeaceful pet mamas don't love rigid obedience training--you're more apt to find ways to create stronger bonds with your pup. When you carve out training space, you reach for those empathy exercises you learned in Canine Cognition school. Whether you’re practicing maintaining eye contact or playing hide-and-seek connection games, your ability to maintain mental threads to your pup is impressive. At HomePeople who walk into your home feel their stress melt away. Your warm and welcoming rooms radiate a calm and peacefulness with their neutral hues and natural fibers. The organic and non-toxic cleaning products you use ensure your pup and your human family live in a safe environment.What are the Pros and Cons of being a Peaceful Pup Parent? Pros: 🐶 You and your pup share an incredibly rewarding bond that makes both of you healthier and happier. 🐶Your pup's been raised in a serene household that's given her a similar sense of calm. She's confident, happy, and well-mannered. 🐶Your pup is usually enthusiastic about anything you want to do. Cons:🐶Your pup can become more easily stressed in new environments that don't share your consistent, calm vibe. 🐶 Your pup might not respond well to houseguests or visitors who disrupt the customary Zen atmosphere. Are you a Small Dog Peaceful Pup Parent? If you want to capitalize on the pros and minimize the cons of your parenting style, please join our email list, where we'll keep you in the loop on all things small dog. Hi there! We're the team at downward (sizing) dog.My name is Karen. I’m a writer, a long time dog lover, and the founder of downward (sizing) dog, a lifestyle brand that takes small dogs seriously. Although we love dressed-up Instagram pupfluencers as much as the next #dogmom, we're all about showing others that small dogs are as canine as the golden retriever or lab next door. We're literally writing the book on small dogs, and we're deeply committed to helping small dog families live their best lives. At downward (sizing) dog, we celebrate the powerful beings parceled in small dog frames. If you know the love of a small dog--or think you should--join our email list so you don't miss anything important. We'd love to have you!1) Join our twice-monthly email list. Learn about what's trending in the small dog world and catch up on any blog posts you've missed.2) Read our blog Where I share everything from the best new products for small dogs, their mamas, and the latest research on small dog care and training.
4.
My pet parent personality type is… Authoritative Pup Parent!
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Overall PhilosophyAs an authoritative dog guardian, you’re all about balance, flexible schedules, and well-mannered behaviors. You believe in positive teaching methods and crate-training, and while you want your pup to be a pup, you also want her to know she needs to look to you for direction. Playtime When your dog starts running through the house with your socks or chewing on the corner of your favorite rug, you bring out the frozen Kong and let your pup settle in her crate for some calming-down. Or, you know it's time for a quick run-through of your pup's many commands and tricks. She enjoys the work and it's a good reminder for her of how to behave. ExerciseYou and your pup take regular walks several times a day, and when you can't fit it in yourself, your neighbor or dog-walker does it for you. You understand the importance of pack-walks and you know your pup is so much happier and healthier when she gets regular exercise. Training StyleYou and your pup probably graduated from puppy school at the head of the class, and it's a safe bet you also finished beginning obedience training. If you had time, you'd like to be certified as a therapy team. But until then, you run through a couple of commands several times a day, and you always fit in a longer training session at least once a week.At HomeYour home is a haven where, most of the time, life runs smoothly. Things are generally organized and predictable, and you and your pup appreciate the calming routines. When you have visitors, people can't believe how well-behaved your pup is, and it makes them want to get a dog. What are the Pros and Cons of being an Authoritative Pup Parent? Pros: 🐶 You and your pup share an incredibly rewarding bond because of all the training you've done. 🐶Your pup's been raised with appropriate boundaries. She's confident, happy, and well-mannered, and you can take her anywhere. 🐶Your pup is usually enthusiastic about anything you want to do. Cons:🐶 Sometimes, you feel a bit like the "mean" parent, with all your focus on obedience. 🐶 Requiring obedience oftentimes puts you at odds with your pup's doggy nature. It can be frustrating at times, and tiring, to fight instinct. Are you a Small Dog Authoritative Parent? If you want to capitalize on the pros and minimize the cons of your parenting style, please join our email list, where we'll keep you in the loop on all things small dog. Hi there! We're the team at downward (sizing) dog.My name is Karen. I’m a writer, a long time dog lover, and the founder of downward (sizing) dog, a lifestyle brand that takes small dogs seriously. Although we love dressed-up Instagram pupfluencers as much as the next #dogmom, we're all about showing others that small dogs are as canine as the golden retriever or lab next door. We're literally writing the book on small dogs, and we're deeply committed to helping small dog families live their best lives. At downward (sizing) dog, we celebrate the powerful beings parceled in small dog frames. If you know the love of a small dog--or think you should--join our email list so you don't miss anything important. We'd love to have you!1) Join our twice-monthly email list. Learn about what's trending in the small dog world and catch up on any blog posts you've missed.2) Read our blog Where I share everything from the best new products for small dogs, their mamas, and the latest research on small dog care and training.