Great essay. Am first time dog owner (as an adult). Right before the apocalypse. A handful of Yes And: Like the cockapoo's owners, most dog owners I've met a

Great essay. Am first time dog owner (as an adult). Right before the apocalypse. A handful of Yes And: Like the cockapoo's owners, most dog owners I've met are basket cases. (Me included.) Not as nutty as cat owners, or godforbid parrot owners, but still pretty nutty. I'm pretty sure most humans are nuts, and that pet ownership is an expression, outlet, and amplifier of that intrinsic nuttiness. Totally agree about under stimulated dogs. My dog is high maintenance. Requires at least two major outings per day. Long walk, hikes, dog park, play dates. But truly, he's only happy while chasing birds on the beach. If you see a spaz dog, most of the time blame the owner. Most dogs need to be in a pack. So get a second dog. Bonus will be the owner won't be the sole center of dog's universe. Until we score our lottery ticket getting another rescue, I'm dog sitting our neighbor's dogs during the day. Makes everyone happier. Positive reinforcement is magic. I so wish I knew about clicker training before having a human kid. As a first time dog owner, I'm still pretty bad at it. OMG, so many mistakes. OMG, so much bad advice. But getting better with practice and experience. And the benefits of focusing on the positive have spilled over to other parts of my life. Lastly, in general, I'd say don't get a pet if you wouldn't have a kid. A dog and a toddler are about the same amount of effort and moral responsibility. And a dog will always be a toddler.