Dating Doghouse

Dear Dog Lady,

I know this sounds crazy but I judge my dates by how well they treat my dog.

Let’s see, there was Tom. He got miffed when I cooed endearing nicknames to my darling pooch Cleo. And, lo, the shaky alliance lasted 13 dates. Then there was Bob. He pretended to like my dog by stiffly petting her behind the ears for a few seconds each time he came to pick me up. But he banned Cleo from the bed, the sofa, or any reclining surface where Bob was inclined to recline -- even though it was my house. The relationship lasted 8 months.

Am I too unyielding and unromantic in these matters? Does Cleo’s opinion count?

- Sarah, Boston, MA.

I'm Just Walkin' My Dog

If Dog Lady has a theme song, it's Nellie McKay's "The Dog Song," which captures the intense joy of stepping out with a four-legged darling. "It's just me and my dog catching some sun/We can't go wrong. . .That's what it's all about."

Nom D' Fume

Dear Dog Lady,

We love your column and sound advice. We are interested to know your thoughts related to a matter of etiquette. We are partners and have a nine-month-old Westie with an uncommon name. She is the center of our universe. Recently friends of ours got a second dog and gave her the same name. We were a bit taken aback, but have not said anything about this to our friends. Are we being too proprietary about this name thing? Is it in poor taste to name one's dog the same unusual name of his friend's dog? Your thoughts would be most appreciated.

Ian and Antonio, Boston, MA

A Dollop of Yogurt Will Never Hurt

You can let them lick the cup when you're done. Always make sure to liberate the container from their snouts when they're finished licking.

Oh, by the way, a teaspoon of Greek yogurt eases doggy digestive tracts. A teaspoon of unfiltered apple cider vinegar also helps.