A to Z Challenge: Dogs Barking

[livingdeb]

I'm thinking of volunteering to help distribute my neighborhood's monthly newsletter. However, I've just discovered something that's making me think twice. Barking dogs.

I go on a lot of little short walks near my house in order to get in some miles for my brother-in-law's exercise challenge. So now I know where all the barking dogs on my block live, as well as the main barking dog on a nearby street on the stretch I walk down.

But the other day, I saw the mail delivery person. In my neighborhood, the mail box is still attached to the house right next to the front door. Let's just say that the dogs that I find annoying and bordering on hysteria as I walk by--well, they are even more excitable when you're walking right up to the door. Who knew that was even possible? I don't know how they aren't giving themselves heart attacks.

I understand that dogs are territorial and protective, and that a territory the size of a house is much too small and even a territory the size of a house plus yard is pretty miniscule. Well, those dogs are not ever going to be fooled by bad guys just because they are dressed up like the very safe and predictable postal delivery person.

Maybe ear plugs would be a good idea.

Comments

[(Anonymous)]

Ha! I find it hilarious when dogs bark at me as I walk by... so I usually just bark back. They go "rarf, rarf, rarf!" And I go "Rarf? whaddya mean, rarf?" It doesn't stop them from barking, but it makes it into a fun game for me - plus it gives the neighbors something to talk about "Look, the crazy lady is barking at the dogs again..."
:-)
-Cat

[livingdeb.livejournal.com]

Sometimes I like to say, in the oh-you're-so-cute baby voice, "Oh, you're so vicious. What a good guard dog." Normally I just say, "Hi, Doggie!"

Sometimes when I pass people walking their excitable dogs, and the people look a little apologetic or embarrassed, I start jumping up and down and say something like "Strangers! So exciting!"