Mom Doesn’t Want to Get Daughter, 15, a Dog Because She Doesn’t Want ‘the Responsibility’ When the Teen Goes to College

A mother says she’s conflicted about getting her teenage daughter another dog, worried that the long-term responsibility would ultimately fall on her once her child leaves for college.

In a post shared on Reddit’s “Am I the A——” forum, the woman explained that her 15-year-old has been asking for a new pet after the family’s rescue dog recently died of old age. While the family still has one dog, the mother noted that, based on its health and life expectancy, the pet likely has only three to four years left.

“Recently, my kid has been wanting another dog,” the mother wrote. “I don’t want the responsibility of a dog after they leave home and go to college.”

She said she discussed her concerns openly with her daughter but ultimately decided against adopting another dog, a decision that left the teen devastated.

“A dog is a minimum of a 15-year commitment,” she added, pointing out that her daughter would not be able to take a dog with her to college.

Wondering if she was wrong, the mother asked other users for their opinions. Most commenters supported her stance, agreeing that the responsibility of a pet ultimately belongs to the adult in the household.

“I’m a big believer that pets belong to the parents,” one user wrote. “Kids are too inconsistent, and given the commitment required, it’s unreasonable to put that responsibility on them.”

Another commenter echoed that sentiment, saying the daughter was old enough to understand what adopting a dog entails. “Making a 15-year commitment to a dog that you are not excited for isn’t going to be good for you or the dog,” they wrote.

That commenter suggested the teen could redirect her love for animals into volunteering with a local rescue organization. Others floated a different compromise, asking whether the daughter might be interested in fostering a dog until she leaves for college.

“Many shelters and rescues are looking for fosters and usually cover medical expenses,” one person explained. “It means caring for dogs for shorter periods, but it can be very rewarding.”

While the mother’s decision was painful for her daughter, many readers felt it was a realistic and responsible choice—one that prioritizes the long-term well-being of both the family and any future pet.