I don’t want a WhatsApp message from your dog

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Why I like dogs – but can’t stand dog culture anymore.

I know – the title already makes some people roll their eyes. But before anyone misunderstands: I’m not a dog hater. I’m just someone who longs for a bit of clarity – and a respectful coexistence between humans and animals.

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Maxi & Mizzi – the first dog lesson

My grandmother Mizzi was the first to show me how you can love a dog so much that all human boundaries fade. Her dog Maxi wasn’t just a pet, he was practically at the table. Meatballs flew across the living room straight into his mouth – while we ate. My father was regularly on the verge of a breakdown. The card club loved it. The result: grandma was only invited for coffee after that. Without Maxi.

Rolf, the shepherd dog – and my back

A neighbor’s dog, who went wild with joy when his owner came home – and bit me in the back. I was seven. And I learned: dogs are animals. Always. And animals are unpredictable.

Rosi – the kiss that never came

A fluffy little dog on its owner’s lap. Sharing plates, cups – everything. And then the request: “Give her a little kiss!” After a few glasses of wine and repeated nudging, the host finally intervened: “Let it go, Martina.”

Tegernsee and the slobber attack

Lunch by the lake. Next to us, a yapper jumps onto the bench and pants over my shoulder. After a polite request for some space, the owner sulks and leaves with the words: “They don’t like us here.” Spot on.

The culture of dogs – and its excesses

I receive emails and WhatsApps – from the dog. I see dogs in strollers, wearing sunglasses, in restaurants, at yoga classes. Moms with strollers, three dogs on a leash, and a phone call in progress. And I wonder: Is this still love for animals – or already a surrogate religion?

Dogs as status symbols?

Some people interrupt conversations just because a dog walks by. Asking about name, age, grooming – as if it were a royal baby. And me? I just think: Haven’t you ever seen a dog before?

Understanding dogs – not idolizing them

Yes, they exist: dog owners with a sense of proportion. Whose dogs are trained, don’t jump on others, or lick faces without consent. Who know: even love for animals needs limits – and respect isn’t weakness.

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Conclusion: I don’t hate dogs. I hate dog culture.

I like animals. I like clear boundaries. And I think it’s high time we brought some reason back into our love for four-legged friends.

 

➡️ Next post is coming.