Dog owners, especially dog lovers, live life on the same wavelength. Our dogs are like our children and we say that literally. We spoil them like our children, protect them like our children and love them like our children. The big difference is that real kids don't shed as much, but we learn to love that too.
1. For obvious reasons, you own a dog, or maybe two.
Whether you have grown up with a dog in your house, or own one after years and years of begging your parents to finally let you get one, dogs are familiar territory--they have influenced who you are, and are just another member of the family. You are used to sloppy wet kisses, dog hair everywhere, and constantly tripping on dog toys--and you wouldn’t change a thing.
2. You follow as many adorable dogs on Instagram as possible.
A good quarter of your newsfeed is filled with dogs being cute, whether they are just sitting there, or sleeping, or eating, no matter what they are doing, you are going to double-tap every single photo you come across. You then of course will tag your other dog-loving friends in the comments section so they can appreciate the cuteness as well.
It doesn’t matter who they are or really any other characteristic about them, once they make it known that they love dogs as well, you know that you can be friends. And this goes hand-in-hand with the assumption that something must be wrong with someone who does not like dogs.
4. Your phone is filled with photos of your dog, and you make a point of showing those photos to everyone you know, whether they ask to see the photos or not.
You constantly have to pause the conversation and show everyone around you the photo that your parents just sent you of your dog being awesome, and admit it, your dog is most likely the background photo on your phone as well.
5. You are always up for anything where dogs will be involved.
Whether it is helping out at a local animal shelter, visiting a pet store, dog-sitting for a family friend, or attending a philanthropy event where puppies will be present, you will always without a doubt be making an appearance.
Nothing sounds better than coming home from school, cuddling up on the couch, and telling your dog about your day. Who else is going to listen your stories and problems without complaint, and love you no matter what?
Nothing distracts you more than seeing a dog coming toward you on the sidewalk, and you do everything in your power to make sure you get to pet it. Life is immediately on hold until you run over and receive that nod of approval from the owner, because nothing makes a day better than spending a few minutes petting a stranger’s dog.
8. You do not discriminate.
Whether the dog is large, small, with short hair or long hair, yellow or black--every dog is perfect in your eyes, and you will pet and obsesses and absolutely love them all regardless.
