You Don’t Have A Dog, He Has You!

It often happens to hear people talk about their dog as if it were an object of their property. However, if you think about it for a moment, you will realize that the exact opposite happens: you do not have a dog, it is he who has you. 

Let’s begin by examining the meaning of the word “to have”. Having is synonymous with “possessing” and indicates the ability to dispose of something or someone. However, this concept, when applied to the person-dog relationship, has taken on new nuances over time. In fact, pets are not seen as things that we can dispose of at will, but as living beings. It can be said that nowadays we no longer have a conception of “possession”. We care about the psychophysical well-being of our pets, so much so that there are even national and European regulations for the protection of animals.

From possession to hierarchy

Nowadays we interpret the relationship with our dog in terms of hierarchy. A relationship in which the owner is the leader or plays the “alpha” role. If this were not the case, a rivalry could be unleashed which would seriously harm coexistence. So more than possession, it is about obedience.

Work for him

Your dog is a member of the family, and you have an obligation to take care of his well-being and to safeguard his health. Having a dog means, for example, dedicating many hours to his education, giving him exercise, ensuring proper mental and physical development. You have to take him out, take him for long walks, play with him. But not only that, it is also necessary to buy him toys and accessories appropriate to his breed.

Moreover, the dog has the right to have a correct diet, and this, as we know, is not cheap. Each dog must follow a specific diet in relation to age and often there is also a need to take supplements.

You have to collect his excrement, you will have to answer for him in case he breaks something, in your house or outside.

Of course, veterinary expenses, if the dog is sick, can be exorbitant. However, we must be aware that, especially in its first months of life, you will have to face mandatory expenses for vaccines, checks, purchase of accessories, etc.

All dogs must have their own objects, such as bowls, toys, a kennel, etc, only in this way you will avoid them from taking possession of the things of the house. The dog has the right to feel comfortable and to be distracted. In short, the dog is completely dependent on you.

But most importantly, dogs deserve everything you give them. They will reciprocate with affection and love, much more than people know how to do.

In short, who works for whom?

The next time you say you “have a dog” think about it and you will realize that the dog has you.