Benji has been extra needy lately. And by needy, I mean he’s decided that absolutely nothing I do should be done alone.
Bathroom time, for example, is clearly a company meeting. The door opens, he wedges himself in just enough to make a point, and before I can protest, he’s positioned himself like, Hey, you’re not really doing anything important. You can scratch my butt.
Yes. Please.
I think it’s hilarious. As if this dog is starved for attention. I regularly remind him, out loud, like a reasonable person, that many dog moms have to leave the house every single day for work. Meanwhile, I’m here. All. The. Time.
But Benji doesn’t understand time. Five minutes is five hours. Three hours is also five hours. If I leave the house at all, even briefly, he stays close because I might leave again. Taking the trash out? Suspicious. Changing shoes? Highly questionable.
Still, there’s something incredibly sweet about being needed like this. It’s nice to be loved and noticed. To have a little being who wants to walk through life beside you, even if that includes standing guard outside the bathroom door.
How Could I Not Stop and Hand Out Smooches?
There are lots of ways I show my sweet boy he’s loved. Extra kisses, warm meals, snuggles, and an impressive collection of blankets he can burrow under. Comfort matters around here.
One of Benji’s favorite rituals is his morning massage. I’ve mentioned this before, but it deserves repeating, he loves his massager. We spend a few quiet minutes together each morning, connecting before the day begins. No rush. No agenda. Just presence.
After that, it’s the usual routine: potties, breakfast, and because he’s Benji, more potties. When I sit down for my own morning reflection and meditation, he settles onto his bed nearby. Close enough to be connected, relaxed enough to let me have my moment.
It’s a Simple Rhythm, But it Works for Us.
Dogs ask for attention when they need reassurance, connection, or grounding. Especially in quieter seasons, when routines blur and energy feels a little softer. Benji’s neediness isn’t a problem, it’s communication.
And honestly? I wouldn’t trade it.
This is our life. Slow mornings. Shared space. Constant companionship.
It’s a beautiful one, and I know he feels it too.
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