Historically sure. But pup play with a praise kink is growing from a fetish to a full on counter-culture. Who's a good [boy/girl/pup]?

This addresses the "what can you do" bit. We can turn their shame into a game and mock their mockery. Even without the slutshame/slutpride aspect, pup play often is fully nonsexual for a lot of pup groups and is a great way for lonely adults to meet new people, socialize, and remember to play.