Neighbors Dog Causing Stress for My Pup: AITA for Setting Boundaries in Shared Backyard?

AITA for setting boundaries with a neighbor's dog in our shared backyard? Luna's well-being is my priority, but tensions are rising.

Davy

Published in Interesting
2025-08-20 06:59

Neighbors Dog Causing Stress for My Pup: AITA for Setting Boundaries in Shared Backyard?

Living in a neighborhood with a shared backyard can be both charming and challenging, especially when it comes to managing interactions between pets. In a recent Reddit post, a 35-year-old woman shared her dilemma about her neighbor's energetic dog, Max, wanting to play with her older dog, Luna, in the shared outdoor space.

Despite politely communicating Luna's need for space and rest to her neighbor, Karen, the situation escalated when Luna appeared stressed after playing with Max. The woman found herself in a dilemma when she intervened and requested Karen to keep Max on a leash or inside when Luna was out, to ensure Luna's well-being.

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However, Karen's defensive response sparked a conflict over the dogs' playtime boundaries in the shared backyard. The Reddit thread quickly filled with comments supporting the woman's decision to prioritize Luna's comfort, emphasizing the importance of respecting each other's pet's needs in a communal space.

Suggestions ranged from proposing alternative playtimes for Max to visiting a dog park to maintain harmony among neighbors and their furry friends. The discussion highlighted the complexities of navigating pet interactions in shared spaces and the significance of clear communication and mutual respect in resolving such conflicts.

Original Post

So I'm (35F) living in a cozy neighborhood with a shared backyard where everyone hangs out. We have a good mix of residents, from families to singles like myself.

One of my neighbors, let's call her Karen, has a playful dog named Max. Max is a huge ball of energy and always wants to play, especially with my dog, Luna.

Luna is a bit older and gets a bit overwhelmed by Max's high energy. For context, Karen and I have had conversations about her dog playing with Luna.

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I politely mentioned that Luna needs her space and isn't as playful as Max. Karen was understanding but it seems like Max just can't resist wanting to engage with Luna whenever they're both out in the backyard.

Recently, I've noticed Karen allowing Max to roam freely in the backyard even when I've mentioned that Luna needs her rest. One day, I saw them playing together, and Luna seemed stressed and exhausted afterwards.

I decided to intervene and politely asked Karen if she could keep Max on a leash or in her unit when Luna is out. Karen got defensive and insisted that her dog has the right to play freely.

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I understand that Max is just being himself, but I also want Luna to feel comfortable in her own space. I don't want to create tension with my neighbor, but I also feel responsible for Luna's well-being.

So AITA for not allowing my neighbor's dog to play with mine in our shared backyard?