My mother raised Miniature Schnauzers when I was young, so the family dog we chose 8 years ago for my own kids is a Schnauzer-Terrier mix that we found at the Humane Society. I took her to obedience classes and she learned commands (like "come", "down", "sit", "stand", "roll over", "settle") very quickly. I just didn't expect that I would learn so much from her!
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| Sophie dancing for a treat from Andrea. |
What I’ve Learned… from my dog
by Janet Sobczyk, 2012ⓒ
- Meals can be the highlight of the day
and don’t have to be eaten slowly to be enjoyed.
- There is a daily minimum requirement
for physical affection.
- To be most content when everyone is
home.
- That being well-groomed (brushed and trimmed) feels
better than being shaggy.
- A walk around the block can be an
adventure.
- It’s important to greet everyone who
comes to our house or passes us on the street.
- Watching birds and squirrels is great
entertainment.
- A sunny spot to rest does the body
good. Under a shady tree is the
best spot in summer.
- Emotions can be effectively expressed
through body language.
- It helps to listen and snuggle close
when someone is sad or sick.
- To follow the master's voice. (I didn't expect to learn spirituality from a dog!)
- That requests (begging) are more often
granted through quiet communication (wagging) than through loud demands
(barking.) So.... wag more and bark less!
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My family's first dog, Jewell. She sure was
a jewel for putting up with me sitting on her! |
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My family's first Schnauzer, Abby, dances for a treat from me.
I love the resemblance to the top photo. |
