The Unemployment Of Our Dogs

Let’s start with this. I find the reels about “unemployed dogs” funny and cute and well intentioned. 

Having said that, every time I watch one of those reels, I can’t help but think that dogs ARE employed and can sometimes be work-addicts. 

First, each dog was bred to do its own thing. Herd, hunt, guard, sniff, etc. So, in their sweet brains, they have a job to fulfill. And, it’s very important to them. While we may not realize/appreciate it at every moment in our reality, it should not take away from their own reality of the situation. Even if it appears to be a simple/silly “sit-at-the-window-and-bark-at-the-neighbors” type deal. That’s important to them and, according to them, they’re working hard! 

Second, perhaps sometimes unknowingly to dogs, they are working by exercising us (when we go on walks or play,) potentially lowering the feeling of loneliness or depression, and giving us something to talk about at the dinner table. That’s a job to me! 

Now, what did I mean about work-addicts? Look at the above. Dogs are always in the game. And, they may not fully understand our world, so, it can be the opposite of being unemployed. Sometimes they work too much and get stressed - so it’s up to us to remind them that they can relax. That’s actually what some dog training is about these days. It’s less about the “alpha dog” mentality and more about training the human to let the dog know they are safe and can sniff and nap to their heart’s desire. 

As a comedian, I appreciate the humor behind the reels. But, I did just have to type up this little essay to support our stinky friends. They work quite a bit and definitely deserve their average for 12 to 14 hours of sleep per day. 

What is your dog’s job? We’d love to hear from you! 

Ross

#keepitstinky