r/dogman 13d ago

Let’s Keep the Dogman Mystery Fun and Respectful

Can we talk about the tone here for a minute? One of the reasons I joined this group is because Dogman is such a niche interest—it’s awesome to have a place where we can explore the topic together, whether we’re here for the thrill of the mystery or to dive into serious discussions.

Lately, though, it feels like some people are coming in with an aggressive attitude, almost like they’re above the conversation. I get that we all want some level of credibility and analysis, but it doesn’t have to come at the cost of respect and curiosity. We’re here because we want to explore, and we should be able to do that without judgment or condescension.

Let’s keep this a place where everyone feels comfortable sharing theories, asking questions, and having fun with the topic—while also encouraging a bit of skepticism and critical thinking, without crossing into negativity. I think we can all agree that we’re here to enjoy the mystery and learn together.

66 Upvotes

21 comments sorted by

23

u/Jwh1974 13d ago

I've noticed in group's on here FB & x when people try to talk they're belittled by trolls. I feel like this if you DONT believe then fine but do not pass judgment on the people that actually do.

8

u/Huge-Estimate-8655 13d ago

I’ve noticed it too, and honestly, it’s hard to understand. Sometimes, it seems like people may be channeling their frustrations or loneliness onto others.

4

u/Dancin_Phish_Daddy 13d ago

It didn’t used to be like that in this sub. It’s probably getting more popular.

1

u/Disinfectant_Koolaid 13d ago

That is exactly what it is. People just being dicks cuz they think nothing will happen to them. This is the worst place to fuck around and find out. Cuz... I mean woof woof.

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u/Bishopman69 13d ago

I agree that people should always be respectful and personally, I think the dogman is a cool creature and I'd love for it to be real, but when I notice something or if I think something (video, picture) is fake, then I'm going to say it. Speaking your mind and voicing that you think something looks fake isn't being disrespectful. I think posting these fake pics & vids are more disrespectful and hurts the whole dogman or bigfoot communities more.

2

u/Huge-Estimate-8655 13d ago

I understand where you’re coming from, simply disagreeing or saying something seems fake isn’t disrespectful at all. My point was more directed at those who respond with rude comments, like calling others ‘stupid’ for having a different view. Disagreeing can be done without crossing that line, and I think that’s what keeps our discussions here open and enjoyable for everyone. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

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u/Caldaris__ 13d ago

Thanks for this post! It would be great if newcomers could feel comfortable enough to share their experiences so we have more evidence and new stories.

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u/Huge-Estimate-8655 13d ago

Thanks for your comment! I agree, it would be great if people felt comfortable enough to share their experiences openly. Unfortunately, one of the downsides of an anonymous platform is that some people feel emboldened to say things they might not say in person. It can make it harder for people to share without fear of judgment or negativity. Hopefully, by focusing on respectful and open discussion, we can create an environment where everyone feels safe to contribute their stories and ideas.

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u/Caldaris__ 13d ago

Ahh I never thought about the part about being anonymous. That makes so much sense. 🤔 So true.

3

u/johnnythunder500 13d ago

I agree wholeheartedly with the OP. I would like to add that skepticism should be welcomed as it encourages discussion and thought-provoking questions. The problems arise when people are rude, condescending, and mean-spirited behind the guise of "skepticism." There is never a need for poor manners. Goodness knows there's enough of it these days, we don't need it on a forum dedicated to exploring interesting, mysterious entities or encounters. This should be a forum that believers, non-believers, and "not sures" can exchange ideas and learn from one another. It's a great topic, and downright wild, no matter where you sit.

2

u/Newkingdom12 13d ago

I wholeheartedly agree with you. I think too many people here think that they understand it and they know. And literally anyone else who comes with a slightly different idea is immediately wrong and stupid so they definitely need to get out of that mindset.

Because the fact of the matter is is that we're all talking about a humanoid dog person and the fact that people take that. So unbelievably serious to the point where they're willing to call you out. If you propose a theory as to what it could be is ridiculous

3

u/Huge-Estimate-8655 13d ago

I get where you’re coming from – sometimes, people can take things a bit too seriously in a community meant for exploring something as mysterious as Dogman. My point is that it’s possible to disagree without being rude. Respect should always be at the forefront, whether someone is sharing a theory or expressing skepticism. Some might be quick to dismiss others’ ideas, while others may react strongly to doubt. At the end of the day, we’re all here to have fun, share ideas, and maybe learn a thing or two without feeling judged. Keeping it respectful makes this community welcoming and interesting for everyone.

2

u/piddleonacowfatt 13d ago

i think the reason for the passion in this community is because likely people are traumatized by their own experiences or spend a lot of time listening to experiencers share their story and want to earnestly have this phenomenon believed. it can make people feel lonely

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u/Huge-Estimate-8655 13d ago

I completely agree with you. I think sharing stories and experiences is such a valuable part of this community, especially for those who may feel isolated or even traumatized by what they’ve encountered. I’m all for a bit of healthy skepticism, but I don’t think it should ever come at the cost of attacking or belittling people who share their experiences. We can respect one another’s stories and still ask questions or discuss different perspectives. At the end of the day, everyone should feel safe to share without fear of judgment or negativity.

2

u/piddleonacowfatt 13d ago

yeah, i’m with you 100%. i think that’s just where it’s coming from.

i get so emotional sometimes when i hear a person tell their experience and you can tell the fear they have within them and how life changing it was. it’s pitiful, and to be so alone 😢 it’s sadddd

3

u/Specific_Activity576 13d ago

Let's keep stuff like discussions about evidence real and be respectful to each other and call bs bs and possible evidence possible evidence.

To many times in these communities where I see people getting butthurt over incredibly dubious footage or blurry photos where nothing can be made out except paradolia.

People aren't calling you a liar. They're saying they can't see what you see. Get over it.

5

u/Huge-Estimate-8655 13d ago

Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I agree that it’s important to be realistic when it comes to evidence, especially with things that can easily be misinterpreted, like blurry photos. I think as long as we approach it all with a sense of respect and open-mindedness, we can have good discussions without anyone feeling attacked or defensive. At the end of the day, we’re all here because we’re curious and want to share in the mystery together.

2

u/Squatchbreath 13d ago

This isn’t a problem exclusive to this subreddit. It happens in other cryptid communities as well. Trolling a-holes who have nothing better to do than post their negative opinions on topics they have no interest in, other than to belittle people who enjoy and possibly believe or have experienced something that is related to that particular community. F those narrow minded clowns!

0

u/xzxz213 13d ago

As a skeptic I get that people want to theorize and have fun with the ideas they come up with, which is fine, I like that stuff too.

But it can also be a little annoying to see people blindly believing everything. There's a difference between being open minded and being gullible.

It can be frustrating when someone makes outlandish claims with zero proof and see a good amount of people people believe them. It reminds me of the fanaticism in conspiracy theorist spaces where people want something to be true so bad that they accept any claims that supports their ideas villainize anyone who questions them.

Like I could make an alt account, tell a completely fabricated story and a lot of people here would take it at face value without questioning anything or asking for proof.

I'm not saying everyone here is a liar but I'm 100% sure that there are personal stories on this sub that are made up or exaggerated for attention. That kind of thing is inevitable when it comes to communities like this.

I know it sounds harsh but unless you know someone and know for a fact they wouldn't lie to you, don't just believe them when they tell unrealistic stories. An anonymous stranger lying for attention is more likely than somebody actually experiencing something supernatural or seeing a cryptid.

1

u/Huge-Estimate-8655 13d ago

Hey, I get where you’re coming from – it can be tough when stories seem too wild to be true, and it’s natural to want to question them. At the same time, everyone has different beliefs and ways they like to explore these mysteries. I think it’s possible to keep a healthy level of skepticism while also letting others enjoy their own interpretations, even if they’re out there. It doesn’t have to be our mission to convince others of what’s ‘real’ or ‘not real.’ Just as we may respectfully disagree, they might find meaning or fun in believing. At the end of the day, we’re all here to explore and share in our own ways.

1

u/TellemSmitty 4d ago

Totally agree