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Published August 11, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. | Updated August 13, 2021 at 12:02 p.m.
Dear Reverend,
Every time I get cozy with my significant other, her dog nuzzles her way between us and starts licking me until we physically separate. How do we get the dog to stop this behavior?
Fi-Don't (male, 38)
Dear Fi-Don't,
Dogs are pack animals, and they tend to see their person as the alpha, or leader. Your partner's pup probably doesn't like that you're getting all the attention from the head honcho, and she wants to muscle in on the action.
It's also fairly common for a pup to get between two dogs having a conflict to calm them down. Dogs don't understand what's going on when humans get romantic. She could be trying to de-escalate what she thinks is a problem.
As long as she's not being aggressive, there should be an easy fix. You just need to redirect her attention.
Start by training her to know a command to go to a dog bed or other special spot to lie down. Fill up a Kong toy with peanut butter or whatever sort of treat she likes — something that will keep her occupied. When you and your lady are gettin' ready for some cuddle action, get the dog to go lie down with her snack and praise her for staying in place.
It may take some time and effort, but with patience, you can teach an old dog a new trick.
Good luck and God bless,
The Reverend
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The Reverend
Bio:
What's your problem? Need some irreverent counsel on life's conundrums? You can always just "Ask the Rev."
What's your problem? Need some irreverent counsel on life's conundrums? You can always just "Ask the Rev."
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