Say Hello to My Little Friend

On account of the Canine Influenza epidemic, Chicago’s dog scene is currently the anti-social network. We can’t hang at our usual haunts but the weather is gray and rainy so at least we’re not missing out on beautiful days. While we can’t be social, I’ve been thinking about all the socialization the pups do get from our usual trips. Specifically, I’ve been thinking about how Eko and Penny prefer to introduce themselves. Not surprisingly, Eko and (especially) Penny are both quite direct.

“The name’s Penny. Nice doing business with ya.” 

“Good to see you again, Doc!”

Eko likes to sniff hello to all the pups in our area of the beach, but if Penny sees a new dog enter the park half a mile away she dashes off to introduce herself. Even if they’re otherwise engaged.

“Hey, I know you’re playing fetch, but do you have a minute to talk about being friends?”

And sometimes she’s so eager to say hello that other dogs never even see her coming.

Penny-hug incoming in 3…

2…

1….

Luckily Penny hit the skids and her new friend (and your brave photographer) were able to jump out of the way. Penny can’t help it, she just loves making new pals.

“Hi, I just have to say I love your jacket.”

“And your hair, my gosh! You must tell me what conditioner you use.”

As a young puppy, Penny was convinced every dog was her best friend. Thankfully she’s learned that not all dogs are extroverts like her.

“Fine then, I’ll go find other friends.”

Eko was a wild extrovert in his youth too, so I suspect Penny will also settle down from “life of the party” to “social butterfly.” Or at least that’s my hope.

But there is certainly more than one way to make friends. Does your pup like to chase? Be chased? Wrestle? Play fetch with pals? Or do they just prefer to do their own thing?