I hate it how people can complain that dogs are too spoiled or get too much attention. I mean, just think about all the dogs in the world that WISH they had that. if they want something to complain about, complain about how there are thousands and thousands of dogs who have no home or someone who loves them.

sorry you're having a rough time with your family and friends. just try telling them how it makes you feel. :(

DolceGal - It bothers a lot of people to see dogs being treated like babies or children - and talked to in "babytalk," etc.

I have had all sorts of dogs and other pets all my life. And - I have never thought of them as being "human" or my children or anything like that. They are my pets, my dogs, and have always been my "best friends." I don't know what I'd do without the pets I have in the past and the ones I have right now.

I live alone and my two dogs are wonderful friends and wonderful company. They share my home, my food, and my heart. But - I do know the difference between dogs and people. They are dogs.....and wonderfully so.

I think a lot of us need to remember that it is largely because our little pets are dogs (and not people) that we love them so. They have so many wonderful traits that people just don't have.

Even though I realize my two little pets are dogs - I spoil them. I share my food with them and love them. They sleep with me and I play with and talk to them all the time.

My family likes my dogs. They all play with them and enjoy them when they visit me. And - they realize that I am especially attached to them because I live alone and they are such good friends and company for me. They understand and accept how much I love these little guys.

I really feel that if you love and accept your dog for what it is - a dog - a wonderful companion and a wonderful friend - and something that you love a great deal (and not treat it like a "human baby" or a "helpless little child") your family will accept your feelings toward it and learn to enjoy it also.
And - like my family - they will accept it as being a very special part of your life. There is a lot that your little dog can give you that no one else in this world can. Your family and friends can appreciate this.

Everyone in my family has dogs of their own - and we all love them (and spoil them) and understand one another's feelings for our wonderful pets.

And - by the way - my little Yorkie may need some special care because he's so small - but other than that, he is one "tough little terrier." Apart from being small, he really doesn't require a lot of extra or different care from my other dog. He really is a very strong, happy, healthy little guy....who more than holds his own with my 21-pound Bichon. I think he's like any other dog I have ever had -- just smaller.

Good luck - Carol Jean

Yes, Yorkies are a very special breed and in no way have I ever treated any other dog that I have had like my Yorkie Babies. They will adjust in time, I am sure of it. Good luck.