Lately, I’ve been wrestling with an unsettling thought that I find hard to believe I’m about to disclose: I genuinely enjoy the company of my dog more than that of my children.
Before you rush to report me to child services, let me clarify; it’s not about love—rather, it’s a matter of compatibility. My dog, Rufus, is simply a much more agreeable companion throughout the day, which I can’t say for my kids.
The Joy of Rufus
For instance, when I return home, Rufus is always thrilled to see me. He doesn’t bombard me with requests for snacks or demand that I prepare a meal before I even take off my shoes. He greets me with a wagging tail, eagerly awaiting a pat before curling back up in his cozy spot; content that my presence has made his world feel right again.
Rufus listens attentively, typically responding to commands on the first attempt. When I say “come,” he dashes over. If I instruct him to “sit,” he does so without hesitation. I never have to repeat myself or threaten to revoke privileges. One might think my kids would pick up on this exemplary behavior, but that’s far from reality. If I could, I’d have Rufus make their beds!
Car Rides and Meals
During car rides, Rufus is overjoyed to be included, never questioning our destination or asking for pit stops. He never demands a change of the radio station either, although I must admit, I sometimes cringe at the tunes. There’s nothing quite as embarrassing as belting out the lyrics to “Maneater” when you thought you were singing alone.
Rufus is perfectly content with his daily meals, showing no signs of complaint. The sound of food being poured into his bowl brings him immeasurable joy, which is a refreshing contrast to my children, who seem to find fault with anything that isn’t pizza, Chipotle, or fast food.
The Whining Comparison
My dog only whines in extreme situations—either due to injury or an urgent need to go outside. In contrast, my kids whine about everything, from the weather to their basic needs—hunger, tiredness, or even just breathing. Moreover, he doesn’t have the means to call me and whine from a distance, which would certainly be a scenario for viral fame if he ever managed it.
The Perfect Pet
Rufus is the perfect pet: friendly, reliable, and unfailingly loyal. However, he is not human.
The beauty of my children lies in their wonderfully human imperfections. The unpredictability of parenting is both a gift and a challenge. While there are days when I feel like my children have truly gone to the dogs, I wouldn’t trade them for anything in the world.
Further Reading
For more insights on family dynamics, you can explore our post on couples’ fertility journeys at Make a Mom. If you’re interested in home insemination, Make a Mom is an authority on the topic. Additionally, for valuable information on pregnancy, check out the World Health Organization for excellent resources.
In summary, while my dog may provide a more pleasant day-to-day experience, it’s the beautifully flawed humanity of my children that makes life truly meaningful.
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