Christmas Stockings & Canine Spending. Episode 594

In this episode, Niall opens the phone lines after receiving an email that’s struck a nerve with pet lovers and budget-watchers alike. A listener says he’s literally in the doghouse after a blazing row with his wife — not over the kids or the mortgage, but over the dog.

The dog in question is a 10-year-old Bichon Frise, and the wife has spent close to €200 on toys, clothes and even a Christmas stocking. He says the spending is reckless and unnecessary. She says it’s her money, the dog is part of the family, and at 10 years old deserves to be spoiled.

Callers are split down the middle. Some side firmly with the husband, arguing that €200 on accessories for a dog is excessive, wasteful, and a sign of misplaced priorities — especially at a time when many households are under financial pressure. Others question where the line gets drawn in shared finances, and whether one partner should be able to spend freely without agreement.

But plenty of callers defend the wife. They argue that pets are companions, not property, and that for many people — especially couples without children — a dog is family. If the money is hers and the bills are paid, why shouldn’t she spend it on something that brings joy? Some even say the real issue isn’t the dog at all, but control, communication and respect within the relationship.

There are also middle-ground voices: those who think a little indulgence is harmless, but €200 on novelty items might be over the top; those who believe older pets should be cherished while they’re still around; and those who ask whether this is really about money — or about feeling unheard.

As Niall steers the conversation, it becomes a lively debate about love, limits, shared finances and whether spoiling a pet is ridiculous… or completely normal.

One email. One dog. And plenty of strong opinions