The Naughty or Nice List: Where Does Your Pooch Stand?
Ah, the holidays! Whether you’re in the market for gifts for dogs or gifts for dog lovers, you’re probably on your best behavior. We all are! Why? Because Santa’s watching! And he’s kind of a stalker.
He knows when you are sleeping. He knows when you’re awake. He even knows when your dog is digging in the kitchen trash and stringing banana peels across the living room carpet.
Yep! While they’re full of unconditional love (and immense cuteness), most dogs have a little bit of nice and a little bit of naughty. So, which list is yours?
They may be on the nice list if:
- They listen to your commands: Sit. Stay. Go to the kitchen and fetch me some wine. Something from Northern France.
- They get along with others: One of the most important traits in a dog is their disposition. It’s important that they’re gentle, especially if you have children.
- They behave on walks: Allowing your dog to walk you is probably better to exercise (as it’s certainly a faster pace), but it’s also more chaotic. A dog that lets you guide them deserves an extra stocking stuffer.
- They sleep at the foot of the bed: Does your dog sleep soundly at the end of your bed, serving as both a foot warmer and a heroic protector? Or do they sleep horizontally at the top, giving you roughly twelve inches of space?
- They’re housebroken: Once upon a time, your dog believed the kitchen rug was their bathroom. Now, they know their toilet is outside on the grass. Grab that copy of Dog Fancy and have at it.
Of course, not every pet is “nice list” material. Your dog may be on the naughty list if:
- They failed obedience school: As the old saying goes, “College isn’t for everyone.”
- They dig up your rose garden: Dogs have a natural inclination to dig. Some dig to explore as part of their predatory instincts. Some dig to bury their treasures (like toys or bones). And some dig to nest (especially dogs that are pregnant).
- They chew up your shoes: Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs. Some chew to relieve anxiety or boredom and some chew to explore their world. Others chew to relieve frustration (My owner left me alone AGAIN. I guess I better gnaw on her Birkenstocks). The good news is that chewing is a younger dog’s game: Your pet will likely grow out of it as they age.
- They chase the family cat: Certain breeds have higher chase instincts than others. In these breeds, it can be difficult to force a copacetic relationship between canine and feline. Helping the cat feel comfortable is key – if the cat shows fear and runs away, the dog will likely follow suit.
- They beg: That filet mignon you’re eating? It’s way, way, way more appetizing than this boring bowl of Science Diet. Watch your step – you might slip on drool.
No matter the dog, they probably spend time on both lists above – they’re a little bit country and a little bit rock ‘n’ roll. In the end, it doesn’t really matter: We love them anyway.
JJ Keeler lives in Colorado with a house full of pets. She owns three dogs, two cats, and a hamster she bought as a bribe to get her daughter to ride the school bus. She has a BA in English Literature from the University of Colorado and has worked as a professional writer for fifteen years. Her clothes are perpetually covered in pet hair.
