Laika's Lessons: How My Dog Shaped My Life and Insight

I can’t believe it will soon be three years already. Three years ago I adopted a puppy I wasn’t quite prepared for. After being on the lookout for a nice older dog I met Laika and instantly melted. It certainly wasn’t planned that way but I have no regrets.

She’s taught me a good deal about dog behavior and I’ve learned things about my own capabilities. Working with a reactive dog doesn’t really give you wiggle room; you’ve got to plan ahead and be prepared.

Time really flies when you’ve got a great dog at your side. Through all the training and work we’ve done it’s amazing how well I feel I know her; yet she still does things that surprise me.

Raising my dog has taught me many important lessons;

• Dogs can be vocal, very vocal. Howling, whining, barking, growling, and grunting. There’s always something to say.
• Not all dogs are calm at the vet; Laika cries and flinches when she’s receiving shots.
• Squirrels are the enemy.
• Mud puddles are there to be laid in.
• There is no such thing as personal space when it comes to cuddling.
• Yawns must always be loud.
• If you want to play and your owner is sleeping dropping a toy on their face is the most effective way to wake them.
• Holding hand to paw in the car is the only way to travel.
• Stretching must always be accompanied by a loud groan or sigh.
• Climbing onto the kitchen counters isn’t just for cats.
• Baths and rain are horrible but the hose is always fun.
• Play biting never gets old.
• Howling or whining at bugs on the wall is mandatory.
• Hats continue to be scary.
• Small dogs look suspicious; barking is advised.
• Petting a tail is not OK, it’s just weird.
• Sugar snap peas are the best food in the world.
• Garbage trucks need to be barked at.
• Hiding toys in coat pockets is a nice surprise for later.

My dog has taught me many things. These weird quirks and behaviors still manage to surprise me. What weird habits or behaviors does your dog exhibit?