For as long as I can remember, I have always been absolutely smitten with dogs. I’ve approached enough strangers on the street asking to pet their furry friend that I have been labeled “that” girl – you know, the one who crumbles in the presence of dogs, treats them like humans, seeks them out at parties, and regards her own dogs as king and queen of the canine kingdom.
Am I crazy? Probably a tad bit as many of my close friends could attest; but the truth is, I don’t know if I would be the same person if it weren’t for the influence of these beautiful, unconditionally loving animals. During the darkest times of my life, my hyperactive rescue dog, Lola, took my world by storm, and then let a little sun in.
For nights on end, I fell asleep with her curled up by my side and awoke with her spotted paws resting on my chest, healing my heart piece by piece. For that, I will never be more grateful.
As a testament to my one true love and to all of you who share my obsession, here’s 11 reasons why I will always be a dog person.
1. Dogs put up with your constant need for snuggles
A recent study found that hugging dogs actually increases their stress levels. Luckily, most of our canine companions seem to settle for an eye roll and a quick lick on the face to satisfy our overbearing selves. My dog climbs on top of me and demands cuddles, so she might just be weird.
2. They can be great with kids
English bulldogs, beagles, and Newfoundlands are among some of the most family-friendly dogs. They have no idea what babies are or why they’re so tiny, but they’ve decided kisses and tail wags are appropriate responses to miniature fingers grabbing their noses.
3. They can be hilariously picky
One of my dogs will elegantly turn her nose in quiet disgust when I graciously offer her vegetables (although I can’t really blame her – none of us really want to finish that salad). My other dog takes advantage of the rare opportunity to eat human food and covers it in drool before he even knows what it is.
4. They have more endurance than most marathon runners
5. A lot of them are really bad at catching things
Have you ever tossed a treat or toy to an uncoordinated dog (aka both of mine) and watched their blissful yet unsuccessful attempt to catch it? Thank me later.
6. Squirrels
7. They have way cooler dreams than us
My dreams are usually either the discombobulated and forgettable ones or the ones where you’re a famous celebrity with a million dollars and then you wake up a broke college student. Meanwhile, dogs are dreaming about playing at the park all day and chasing the cats around the house – a fantasy that they actually get to live. Ruff life.
8. Insects are friends
Bees suddenly become microscopic flying dogs. My dog loves them and chases them around until she either gets stung or she accidentally eats one.9. They're always excited for adventures
You know that dance you do when you smell food nearby (is that just me?) or when you miraculously passed that exam you thought you bombed? That’s every dog when you pull the leash out of the closet.10. They get a mean jealous streak – especially when you come home smelling like another dog
". . . She was a poodle, wasn't she?"
11. They will love you in the worst of times and the best of times and are there to catch you when you fall
