Mommy Dearest

Dear Dog Lady,

I'm one of those single, professional 34-yr-old women who treat dogs like children. I hate it when I have to leave my pets to go to work. The rest of the time, my social life is basically non-existent because I always want to be home with them. I want people to come to my house so I don't have to leave the dogs. When they are alone during the day, they are not crated. They run the house and seem to do well with this.

I have a Yorkie, Otis, a very sweet dog. His only fault? He's a runner. I've been told that there is no solution for this, as it is his nature, but I long to take him somewhere and let him run off leash. And Oliver, a puppy shih-poo, cute as a button and wild as a march hare. He will be neutered soon, but he shows some "alpha" signs. I'm hoping some of his behavior will mellow when he is neutered. He is very aggressive when given treats. The older Otis is a gentleman and a pushover. My questions: Any way to help Otis not be a runner? Any way I can keep Mr. Oliver from chewing my hand off when I give him treats?

Paula, Baltimore, MD

Paula, get a life. The problems you describe with your O-guys are normal neurotic canine behavior – especially with the unaltered puppy. And Otis’ desire to run is totally natural. Your dogs will always have faults because they’re animals not automatons.

Dog Lady suggests you hover too much over these creatures and they are picking up on your “mommy dearest” vibes. Go outside with them whenever you can, walk them more, tire them out. Can you bring Otis to a fenced-in area where he could run like the wind? And Oliver? Neutering will surely calm him down, along with regular hardy exercise and a stern “no” when he nips at your hand to get the treats. Also, have a chew toy handy to stuff in his mouth when he gnaws on you.

Paula, quit being held emotionally hostage by your dogs. Dog Lady believes strongly that a pet in the house adds immeasurably to the quality of life, but not when a human forsakes contact with people. Oliver and Otis occupy an important niche but they should not rule your roost. Remember, there are dog ladies and dogs’ ladies. Don’t become the nutty kind.

Posted by Dog Lady at January 10, 2006 12:57 PM