Dogs have become more than just pets in our modern world – they’re our faithful companions, dedicated therapists, and sometimes even our preferred dinner dates. I’ve noticed a growing trend where people seem to connect more deeply with their four-legged friends than with other humans.
When your dog becomes your best friend, confidant, and favorite family member, you might be part of this special group who feels a stronger bond with canines than people.
1) You call them in as your emergency contact
I always list my dog as my emergency contact at the doctor’s office. The receptionist gives me weird looks when I write “Buddy” and list his breed under “relationship.”
When they ask for a phone number, I just give my neighbor’s since she has a key to my place and can check on my furry lifeline if needed.
Look, I know my dog can’t dial 911, but he’s the first one I want to see when I wake up in the hospital. At least he won’t lecture me about being more careful like my mom would.
My dog’s already seen me at my worst anyway – like that time I had food poisoning and spent 12 hours in the bathroom. He stayed right by my side the whole time.
2) Your dog’s Instagram following is bigger than yours
My dog’s social media game is stronger than mine will ever be. His Instagram profile has thousands of followers who can’t wait to see his daily adventures and silly poses.
I spend way too much time staging the perfect photos of him in cute outfits and scenic locations. The notifications keep buzzing as his fans shower every post with likes and heart-eye emojis.
Meanwhile, my personal Instagram account sits neglected with its humble 200 followers. I’ve accepted that I’m just my pup’s social media manager now, and I couldn’t be prouder of his influencer status.
3) You’ve memorized your vet’s number like it’s your BFF’s
I can rattle off my vet’s phone number faster than my own mom’s. It’s permanently etched in my brain, right next to my favorite pizza place.
I’ve called Dr. Smith’s office so many times that the receptionist knows my voice before I even say my name. We’re basically on a first-name basis now.
My phone’s speed dial list tells the whole story – my vet is #2, right after voicemail. I even know their after-hours emergency number by heart, just in case my furry friend needs midnight care.
4) You regularly search for dog-friendly vacation spots
I can’t imagine going on vacation without my furry best friend. Before I book any trip, I spend hours searching for hotels and rentals that welcome dogs with open arms.
My browser history is filled with searches like “best dog beaches” and “pet-friendly hiking trails.” I’ve even created a special spreadsheet to track which airlines have the most pet-friendly policies.
I’ve passed up countless amazing deals just because a hotel had a “no pets” policy. My friends think I’m crazy, but they don’t understand that a vacation without my pup isn’t really a vacation at all.
Sometimes I wonder if I should rename my Pinterest board from “Dream Vacations” to “Places My Dog Would Love.” Every destination must pass the puppy approval test – it’s non-negotiable!
5) You’ve celebrated their birthday with a cake (and not just any cake—it’s customized)
I spent three hours at the bakery explaining exactly how my dog’s face should look on the cake. The baker probably thought I was nuts, but who cares? My fur baby deserves the best.
I even made sure they used pet-safe ingredients so my pup could have a slice. The look on her face when I brought out that bone-shaped cake with her portrait in frosting was worth every penny.
My human friends get a store-bought cake, if they’re lucky. But for my dog? I’m talking custom-made, three-layer masterpiece with “Happy Birthday Princess Bella” written in perfect script.
6) The first thing you ask visitors is if they want to see your dog’s latest trick
I can’t help showing off my dog’s newest achievements to anyone who walks through my door. Before they can even take off their coat, I’m already asking if they want to see the amazing roll-over trick we perfected last week.
My friends know the drill by now – they’ll barely get a “hello” before I’m grabbing treats and clearing space in the living room for our impromptu dog show. I’ve noticed some of them trying to sneak past without making eye contact, but my enthusiasm can’t be contained.
Sometimes I wonder if people avoid visiting just to escape another demonstration of my dog’s “play dead” routine. I don’t care though – they’re missing out on pure entertainment!
7) Your dog’s comforter costs more than your own
I spent $200 on a memory foam dog bed with cooling gel technology, while my own comforter is from a discount store clearance sale.
My pup sleeps like royalty on an orthopedic mattress with a plush, machine-washable cover, and I’m pretty sure it’s more comfortable than my bed.
When friends visit, they often joke about trading places with my dog for a night. I can’t blame them – that fancy bed even has bolstered sides for neck support.
I tell myself it’s a worthy investment for my furry friend’s joints, but deep down I know I’m just spoiling them rotten. Meanwhile, I’m still using the same lumpy pillow from college.
8) You have a wardrobe full of matching outfits
I can’t help but giggle when I look at my closet. Half of it is filled with coordinated outfits for my dog and me.
From matching Christmas sweaters to identical raincoats, we’re always ready to turn heads at the park. My friends roll their eyes when I show up in the same pattern as my pup.
I’ve even bought us matching Halloween costumes for the past three years. Last year we were both hot dogs – the irony wasn’t lost on anyone.
My credit card bills show more spending at pet boutiques than human clothing stores. But seeing my furry best friend strutting around in the same style as me makes it worth every penny.
9) You actually worry about what your dog thinks of your outfit choices
I catch myself standing in front of the mirror, asking my dog if this sweater makes me look silly. His tail wags no matter what I wear, but I still want his approval.
Sometimes I change clothes three times before our morning walk because I want to look good for my furry fashion critic. I know he’s colorblind, but that doesn’t stop me from coordinating my outfits with his collar.
I’ve even bought matching accessories for us both. My dog rocks his bandana while I wear a scarf in the same pattern, and I swear he gives me an extra proud look when we’re twinning.
10) You’ve signed cards from both you and your dog
I never send a card without including my dog’s name.
Birthday cards, thank you notes, and holiday greetings all come from both of us.
My dog’s “signature” is really just a paw print I drew next to his name, but it makes me smile every time I add it.
I’ve even caught myself writing “Love, Sarah and Max” on work-related cards to colleagues.
It’s become such a habit that signing just my name feels weirdly incomplete.
The best part? Some friends now address their cards to both of us, and my mom always sends birthday treats for both her “grandkids.”
