Friend or Foe?

I hate meeting new people. It's stressful. I really only want to be with my mom. I don't understand why she needs me to meet anyone else when we have each other. But she recently explained to me that she needs people to be able to stay with me if she ever needs to go out of town. And that means liking someone enough to be polite while they are in the house for a few days. I have to let them in, let them feed me (easy) and let them put a leash on me (not so easy).

At the end of October, Mom and Dad are leaving for a few days for the annual dog training conference. Mom gets lots of good ideas, and it's important to her, so I try to understand. Grandma was supposed to come stay with me, but she got a new job, which I should be happy about, so I try to understand.

So last week, Mom and I went to the park so I could hang out with a new person. My mom understands that we have to move at my pace, and she's really patient with me. I have met this person once before. She wasn't allowed to pet me this time or last time. I only get pets when I say that I'm ready for them. The last time we met, we went out for coffee, and I didn't interact with her at all. This is my process. This time, I sniffed her a couple of times as we were on a walk. After one more meeting, Mom will let her in the house. Since I am more territorial in my own house, this is the worst place to meet me. So if Mom wants me to like you, I meet you a few times for short interactions at places I like or feel comfortable, like my favorite park in Torrance.

Sometimes, when you have a dog that requires a little extra effort, you just have to remember to move at a comfortable pace. Even though it may not feel comfortable to you, not all dogs can be like Lassie. Losing her temper with me is the worst way for Mom to deal with me because, as new studies are showing, aggression begets aggression. My mom has to use treats and praise and patience with me, and when she does, the rewards are huge because I want to work really hard for her and do the best I can.

So eventually, I will let Stephanie in the house. Because I know it's important to my mommy.

Love, Muggsy