Dog Daze
Sniff Here Often?
By Melody Belle, as told to Rebecca Ash
Mar 7, 2008, 20:20

Hello again, dear readers! My mom said this issue is all about breeding, which makes sense this time of year. Spring is in the air and so is love. I'm assuming that if you are reading this, you already know the dire importance of picking responsible breeders or choosing shelter dogs or rescues. You should also be well versed in the importance of spaying and neutering your pet. Doggiefun readers are, naturally, just very keen. So instead, I'd like to talk to the canines about...puppy pick up lines! Now's a great time to meet other dogs and make new friends! So, I thought that I would share some effective ice breakers to help you strike up a connection and friendship with your fellow hounds.

[Disclaimer from Rebecca: I do not endorse such cheesy tactics, even for canines.]

• What's your sign? Humans laugh at this one (and my mommy rolled her eyes), but I think that what sign you are born under says a lot about your personality. For example, I am a Taurus and I do tend to be stubborn but loyal. My sister Emma is a Leo and she is dominant and courageous. Every hound I know shares the traits of his or her sign, so it's relevant. Plus, it lets you know when to expect birthdays so you can get your pals gifts, like bone-bones or something.
  
• Do you have a License for being so cute? This lets them know that you are a law abiding canine as well as the fact that you find them attractive.
  
• If I say you have a nice bark, will you keep it down? Upon first introduction, your potential new pal will undoubtedly be a bit barky. A compliment is both charming and disarming. Tell them that you recognize what a pleasant tone they have and then you can take it down a notch and have a conversation in more dulcet tones.
  
• Are your humans royalty? Because you rule! It's nice to recognize one's humans and at the same time pay him a compliment.
  
• Have you been in the dog park all day? Because you've been running through my mind! A good way to let someone know you are thinking about him. Plus, it lets him know you are interested in staying fit and enjoy social pursuits.
  
• I have my Rabies shot, but I must have missed my Love Vaccine this year. This one lets them know you do not have The Rabies while at the same time being romantic. Practical and effective.
  
• When you go to your water bowl your reflection must get jealous. A fine way to let him know that you find his face pleasing.
  
• I'll bet you're great at playing fetch because you sure got my attention. This shows not only your interest but that you like to have fun too. It also compliments his recreational prowess.
  
• Sniff here often? Maybe this pooch is a regular in the neighborhood or dog park; maybe he's just passing through. Getting a sense of one's walk-walk habits can help you assess if this is a dog you can count on seeing often enough to strike up a friendship with.
  
• I know a lot of tricks. Want to see me roll over and beg? You want to let the other pooch know that you have talent, after all. And it shows that you are clearly interested in getting to know him better.
  
• You smell good. Let's go roll in something smelly. What dog can resist rolling in something smelly? None. This will definitely work.
  
• I'll let you be my Alpha if you let me be your Omega. You'll really seem very intelligent (Greek is hard!) plus you indicate that you are willing to be flexible in your relationship.
  
• Hi. I like you. I find that the direct approach works nicely as well.