Jennifer Lawrence says a dog biting her son changed how she sees dogs

Jennifer Lawrence reveals how a dog biting her son reshaped her views on pets and led her to give up dog ownership

Jennifer Lawrence has spoken candidly about how becoming a mother dramatically changed her relationship with dogs, following an incident in which a dog bit her young son.

The Oscar-winning actress addressed the topic during a conversation event at New York City’s 92nd Street Y on January 7, held after a screening of her upcoming film Die, My Love.

Lawrence, 35, explained that her perspective on animals shifted after she welcomed children with her husband, art dealer Cooke Maroney. The couple share two sons, including their three-year-old, Cy. According to Lawrence, her instincts as a parent now cause her to view dogs differently than she once did, describing them as potential threats rather than companions.

During the discussion, Lawrence recalled the moment that solidified this change, revealing that a dog bit her son. She described her immediate emotional reaction in exaggerated terms, joking that it made her want to “obliterate every dog.” The remark, delivered with intentionally extreme language, was played for humor and drew laughter from the audience. Lawrence clarified that her comments reflected an intense emotional response rather than a literal sentiment.

As a result of the experience, Lawrence said she decided to give her dog, Princess Pippi Longstocking—whom she adopted in 2017—to her parents. She noted that she no longer feels comfortable having a dog in her home and is unwilling to take what she sees as unnecessary risks now that she is a parent.

The actress added that she has since embraced life as a cat owner. She now has a cat named Fred, whom she described as sharp, amusing, and misunderstood. Lawrence joked that she enjoys cats’ aloof personalities, saying their behavior often feels intentionally comedic.

Lawrence’s comments offered a glimpse into how parenthood has reshaped her priorities, blending humor with an honest reflection on fear, responsibility, and changing instincts.