DTR: Bulldog Oversteps Bounds, Baby Is A Little Put Off

Lucy,

My name is Grady. I'm one year old and I have a best friend named Winston. He's a bulldog but more like a big brother. This is a picture my mommy took of us, she totally blocked our view!

Winston and I usually get along well. We hang out. I throw toys for him to run and fetch. I kick him, pull his ears, and walk all over him. He loves it!

Last weekend we ran into a huge problem. I was sitting in my pool out front because it was H.O.T. outside and all of a sudden, Winston got in too!

At first I didn't mind, in fact it was kinda fun. But then mommy and daddy got really excited and started taking all these pictures of Winston and I... got... jealous. Plus he took up the whole pool!

So, Lucy, can you help me? I want Winston to be my best friend, but I don't like him using my things! What should I do?

Grady

Grady,

You need to have a DTR with Winston. "Discuss the Relationship." At some point, every relationship needs this, and it's hard to establish all of your relationship expectations beforehand. So don't feel guilty. You are best friends, and for a while things have been going smoothly. Everything has been fun, and suddenly things get heavy. Winston gets in the pool with you, and totally crowds your space and hogs the attention. Not to mention, the pool is now full of dog-water! You have every right to be bothered.

First, be honest with Winston and tell him how you feel. Then, be sure to listen to him. Could it be that Winston is feeling unappreciated? You said he is like your big brother. He probably spends a lot of time guarding and protecting you. You get a lot of special attention, being the baby. And could it be that you are a little rough on him, what with the kicking, ear-pulling, and walking on him? Winston might feel a little bit taken advantage of, so he took the opportunity to get in your space and try to grab some of the attention. Winston doesn't want to hurt you. He is just searching for some love and validation. Also, you said it was really hot, and Winston probably just wanted to cool off. Sometimes bulldogs need to beat the heat just like us!

I'm not trying to negate your feelings, Grady. You have a right to be annoyed with Winston's behavior. But Winston loves you, and you love him! So the best thing to do is to be honest with him, share your concerns, and forgive each other, because you're best friends! That's what best friends do.

I know it will all work out with you and Winston!

Love,

Lucy