Online Support Group for Dog Owners with Behavioral Challenges Gains Momentum

Dogs Anonymous, an online support group founded in 2025 by Louise Crane, Daphne Mendoza-Tervanis, and Jerri Scherff, has become a vital resource for dog owners struggling with behavioral issues in their pets. The nonprofit organization, modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous, provides a safe space for owners to share their frustrations and shame without judgment. Weekly Zoom meetings allow participants to discuss challenges such as resource guarding, excessive barking, and reactivity, while emphasizing the importance of emotional support over financial solutions. The group’s founders highlight that 53% of dog owners with behavioral issues feel alone, and 78% experience elevated caregiver burden, according to a 2026 study published in the journal Pets. Social media’s influence on pet ownership expectations, with curated petfluencer content creating unrealistic standards, has contributed to the group’s growing relevance. Unlike other support groups, Dogs Anonymous prioritizes the owner’s emotional well-being, recognizing that many owners feel judged or inadequate when their dogs don’t meet societal expectations. The organization has attracted participants from the United States, Singapore, Costa Rica, and beyond, with sessions designed to foster community and reduce the isolation often felt by owners dealing with difficult dogs. The group’s approach, rooted in sharing experiences and building community, has proven effective in helping members navigate the emotional challenges of dog ownership.