More and more homes are becoming spaces shared by people and animalsDogs, in particular, cease to be mere playmates and become key members of the family. Many people who considered themselves "animal lovers" have discovered, over time, that the way they related to them was not always fair or respectful, and have begun a profound change in their understanding of these bonds.
This change in perspective has given rise to the concept of the multi-species familyAnimal-based coexistence is a way of living in which humans and other animals recognize each other as part of the same relational unit, with shared responsibilities, affection, and care. This approach goes beyond the emotional: it also has a social, legal, and educational impact, and even affects the physical and emotional health of those involved.
What exactly is a multi-species family with dogs?
A multi-species family is a cohabiting group made up of people and animals of different species.who are recognized as part of the same emotional and care network. It is not limited to dogs and cats: birds, small mammals such as rabbits or hamsters, reptiles, or other animals with whom a stable bond is established can also be included.
In the case of multi-species families with dogs, these animals go from being "the pet of the house" to being members with the right to care, respect and considerationThere are still obvious differences between species, but the focus of the relationship is no longer on how we use them, but on ethical responsibility and emotional connection.
It is important to emphasize that sharing a roof is not enough to talk about familyJust as not everyone we live with is automatically "family," a dog living in a home doesn't become family simply by being there. What makes the difference is a genuine commitment to its well-being, its upbringing, and its development as an individual.
The multi-species family is built the moment we assume guardianship and care of the animalaccepting responsibility for their physical, emotional, and social needs; it is advisable to find out how preparing for the arrival of a new dog at homeFrom that moment on, we became their primary caregivers, not just those who feed them or take them for walks, but those who ensure they have a dignified, safe, and fulfilling life.
This way of understanding coexistence reflects profound changes in the concept of the traditional human familyToday, multiple family models are recognized, and at the same time, emotional bonds with other species are accepted as part of those structures: that is where dogs clearly appear as life companions and not as mere decorations of the home.
Why not talk about “pets”: the power of language
The term “pet” carries a cultural burden that reduces animals to objects or resourcesAlthough many people use it without bad intentions, this word is associated with the idea of ownership, entertainment, or living decoration, and not with that of a subject with their own interests.
Calling a dog a "pet" encourages its objectificationThey are viewed as something we possess, something we buy or give away, rather than as individuals with their own perspective on the world. As authors like Alicia Puleo point out, objectification is often the first step towards forms of violence or abuse, because it opens the door to treating that being as replaceable or disposable.
This utilitarian view is also connected to a market logic.The “pet industry” relies precisely on this idea that animals are consumer products that are acquired, exchanged, or abandoned when they no longer meet our expectations, something that clashes head-on with the notion of a responsible multi-species family.
The use of “pet” also reinforces a very marked speciesismBy drawing an artificial line between animals that live in our homes and those that remain outside our circle of affection, some would be deemed worthy of love and care, while others would continue to be seen only as resources, pests, or food, despite sharing the same capacity to feel.
Therefore, alternatives such as "family animals" or "cohabiting animals" are proposed.These expressions shift the focus from possession to relationship, emphasizing that the dog is not something we own, but someone with whom we share daily life, care, and home.
“Family animals” and “cohabiting animals”: what these terms imply
Choosing to speak of “family animals” or “cohabiting animals” is not simply a matter of linguistic trends.but rather a political and ethical decision about how we want to see and treat those who live with us. Language shapes reality: what we name differently, we think and feel differently.
When we say that a dog is a "family animal" we are acknowledging that it is part of the relational core of the home.This does not mean humanizing him or denying his specific needs as a dog, but accepting that his well-being influences the atmosphere of the house in the same way as that of any other member.
The term “cohabiting animal” emphasizes the idea of sharing space and routinewith the obligation to ensure that this coexistence is as fair and respectful as possible. This implies listening to him through his body language, respecting his pace and needs, and not imposing anything on him "just because he's mine."
This change in vocabulary also helps to question power relations based on ownership.Stop seeing ourselves as "owners" and start thinking of ourselves as "guardians" or "care managers" and assume that the authority we have over the dog should be used to protect it and not to dominate it without limits.
Ultimately, talking about family or cohabiting animals is an invitation to review our ethics of care.to ask ourselves what kind of bond we want to build with our dogs and other animals, and to move away from the dynamics of use and discard that have historically caused them so much harm.
When does a dog truly become part of the family?
The key moment when a dog becomes part of the family is when we consciously assume responsibility for its comprehensive care.It's not just about signing an adoption or paying in a store—it's important to know the animal adoption protocols—, but to internalize that their life and well-being depend largely on our decisions.
Becoming a dog guardian involves taking responsibility for its physical needs. (adequate nutrition, sufficient exercise, veterinary carerest, safety) and also their emotional and social needs (bonding, play, exploration, interaction with other dogs and people).
This commitment encompasses their upbringing, their education, and their development as an individual.Each dog has its own character, its own fears, its own preferences, and its own way of relating to its environment; supporting this process requires patience, observation, and a constant willingness to learn and correct mistakes.
From this perspective, family is not limited to genetics or species.What defines it is mutual care, shared responsibility, and a bond that endures over time. When we decide to be a dog's primary caregiver, that animal becomes part of the family system, with rights and needs that must be respected.
This type of relationship also protects the dog in times of crisis.For example, in cases of separation or change of address, where the need to regulate custody and well-being is beginning to be legally and socially recognized, as occurs in some administrative and judicial decisions, or to resort to the temporary animal shelter.
Essential characteristics of a multi-species family with dogs
A multi-species family with dogs is built on four basic pillars: belonging, equity, order, and balanceIt is not an emotional chaos where "anything goes", but a structured system of coexistence that seeks the well-being of all its members, human and non-human.
Belonging refers to the feeling of identity and acceptance within the groupEach member is recognized for who they are, without trying to force them to fit a human ideal. With dogs, this means respecting that they are dogs: they have a curious sense of smell, they need movement, they explore with their mouths, and they communicate with their bodies.
Diversity is another key element of that belongingIn a multi-species family, not everyone communicates in the same way or has the same needs; therefore, interaction methods and lifestyles must be adapted to the requirements of each species and individual. Understanding canine signals, for example, is fundamental to avoiding conflicts and building trust.
Equity in a multi-species family does not mean giving the same to everyone, but rather that each person receives what they need.A child, an adult, and a dog do not need the same amount of food, attention, or rest, but all must receive what is essential for their physical and emotional well-being.
Order has to do with a clear structure of care and responsibilities.The guardian(s) assume the main management role: they are in charge of organizing schedules, veterinary visits, feeding, education and space, both for the animals and for other possible dependent members, such as human beings.
The balance aims for a reasonably fair flow of affection, attention, and care among the different membersIt's not about counting minutes, but about ensuring that no one is systematically neglected: not the dogs, not the children, not the elderly. When everyone feels heard and cared for, the emotional atmosphere of the home improves significantly.
The role of the guardian in the multi-species family
Within a multi-species family with dogs, the human figure of reference has a central role.But it's worth taking a close look at how we refer to it. Speaking of "owner" or "proprietor" evokes relationships of dominance and possession that clash with the idea of respect and shared responsibility.
The terms “tutor” or “tutor” emphasize a guiding and accompanying roleThe person who lives with the dog is responsible for providing it with a safe environment, helping it learn to navigate the human world, and ensuring its well-being, rather than imposing their will because "it's mine and I do what I want."
Another useful expression is “care manager”, which makes visible the task of organizing and sustaining daily lifeThis includes the logistical aspects (food, walks, veterinary care) but also the emotional work: providing security, regulating coexistence with children, managing conflicts, and practicing listening to each person's needs.
The way we name ourselves and others directly influences how we actIf I think of myself as the owner, I may more easily fall into justifying punishments, shouting, or arbitrary decisions; if I see myself as a guardian, I am more likely to resort to dialogue, training, and the search for respectful solutions.
This perspective does not eliminate the power asymmetry—because the adult still makes many decisions—but it directs it towards protection and responsibility.Authority is then used to care, prevent harm and guarantee rights, not to exert despotic control over the dog.
Benefits of living in a multi-species family with dogs
The positive effects of sharing life with dogs in a multi-species family are becoming increasingly well documented.It's not just about the subjective feeling of companionship, but about measurable impacts on people's physical, emotional, and social health.
In terms of stress, numerous studies have shown that interaction with dogs reduces cortisol levels.The hormone related to the stress response is also released. At the same time, the release of oxytocin, linked to well-being and attachment, increases, creating a calmer and more pleasant emotional atmosphere at home.
In terms of physical health, dogs are usually a natural source of activity.Walking, playing and doing outdoor activities with them increases daily movement, which is especially beneficial for children, but also for adults with very sedentary lives.
The emotional development of children is greatly enriched by contact with dogs.Caring for another living being, learning to respect their limits, understanding that they also feel fear, pain or joy, fosters the emergence of empathy, responsibility and a more refined sensitivity towards the suffering of others.
In many homes, dogs also provide a strong sense of security.Their presence alerts them to strange sounds, unknown people, or situations they perceive as dangerous, which generates in the human family the perception of being more protected, although later this instinct must be managed well so that it does not lead to problematic behaviors.
And, of course, we cannot forget the direct emotional dimension.Dogs offer constant companionship, affection that is not filtered through judgment or criticism, and a contagious joy that many people describe as a key emotional support in difficult times.
Living with dogs, girls and boys within the multi-species family
When dogs and human creatures live together in a multi-species family, the dynamics become even richer and more delicate.The relationship between children and dogs can be wonderful, but it requires supervision, education, and clear rules for all parties involved.
One of the foundations is teaching children to treat dogs with respect.This includes not disturbing him while he sleeps, not pulling his ears or tail, not invading his resting space, and understanding that he can also get tired, scared, or show discomfort; there are practical tips for better coexistence between children and dogs.
At the same time, the dog needs good training to help it handle itself easily in an environment where there are children.Working on basic signals, self-control, gradual habituation to noise and infant movement, and offering escape routes and safe havens is essential to reducing tension.
Playing together, always supervised by adults, can become a powerful bonding tool.Activities such as searching for objects, sharing suitable toys, participating in simple care tasks, or creating small scent circuits help both dogs and children see each other as allies, not rivals.
In many cases, families who delve deeper into this type of cohabitation choose to further their educationWhether through specialized books on coexistence between dogs and children, workshops, advice or professional support that address topics such as mutual respect, canine language, aggression scales or the gradual introduction of a dog into a home with children.
Social, legal and cultural changes surrounding the multi-species family
The rise of multi-species families with dogs is not an isolated anecdote, but part of a broader social transformation.In countries like the United States, it has already been observed that there are more dogs and cats than children, and in places like Colombia, the figures point to a constant expansion of households with pets.
In Latin American contexts, it is estimated that around 40% of households have at least one pet.This reflects both demographic changes and a profound redefinition of the place of animals in daily life. The habit of living with them has gone from being an individual practice to becoming a well-established social phenomenon.
This process is accompanied by a shift in the way we name and think about dogs and cats.There is a growing preference for speaking of "companion animals" or "companions" rather than "pets," while the language of the multi-species family is being incorporated into academic, media, and activist circles.
At the legal level, there is still a long way to go, but progress is already being seen.Issues such as pet custody in cases of relationship breakdown or separation are beginning to be considered more seriously, as well as regulations that recognize, at least partially, that dogs are not mere material possessions; animal welfare law in Spain This exemplifies this normative shift.
An interesting point emphasized by various institutions is the need to avoid an uncritical “humanization” of animalsIt is not about turning them into people or ignoring their specific differences, but about offering them "animalized" treatment in the best sense: tailored to their real biological, behavioral and emotional characteristics, so that they can live as what they are, not as toys or substitutes for children.
Overall, the multi-species family with dogs encapsulates many contemporary debates.: about inter-species empathy, about justice and rights, about diverse family models and about the type of society we want to build with those who share the planet with us.
Adopting this perspective involves reviewing words, habits, and structuresto move from the idea of "pets" and "owners" to that of cohabiting animals, guardians and care managers, and to understand the home as a shared space where each member contributes, receives and deserves respect, regardless of the species to which they belong.
